Submit to Special Issue Submit Abstract to Special Issue Review for Energies Propose a Special Issue

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

► Journal Browser

Sustainable Energy Systems: Progress, Challenges and Prospects

Print Special Issue Flyer
Special Issue Editors
Special Issue Information
Keywords
Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue
Published Papers

A special issue of Energies (ISSN 1996-1073). This special issue belongs to the section "A: Sustainable Energy".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 5 June 2026 | Viewed by 10831

Share This Special Issue

Special Issue Editors

Prof. Dr. Weisheng Zhou

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor

College of Policy Science, Ritsumeikan University, Osaka 567-8570, Japan
Interests: energy/environmental policy; policy engineering

Dr. You Li

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor

Graduate School of Energy Science, Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan
Interests: machine learning; smart control strategies for building energy systems
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The global transition to sustainable energy is one of the most pressing challenges of our time. Driven by the goals of decarbonization, energy security, and technological innovation, sustainable energy systems—including renewable energy generation, energy storage, grid integration, and intelligent energy management—are evolving rapidly. These systems hold immense promise but also face multifaceted challenges ranging from resource intermittency and infrastructure limitations to policy uncertainties and economic constraints.

This Special Issue aims to bring together cutting-edge research and practical insights related to the design, operation, integration, and optimization of sustainable energy systems. We invite contributions that address both technological advances and systemic challenges, offering forward-looking perspectives that can guide future development.

Topics of interest include, but are not limited to, the following:

Renewable energy generation (solar, wind, hydro, geothermal, bioenergy);
Smart grids and grid flexibility;
Energy storage technologies and integration strategies;
Building- and community-level energy systems;
Low-carbon energy transitions and energy policy;
Energy system modeling and scenario analysis;
Power-to-X and sector coupling;
Energy efficiency and demand-side management;
Carbon neutrality and energy justice;
Emerging technologies and innovative applications.

We welcome original research articles, reviews, and case studies that explore recent progress, propose novel solutions, or critically assess the prospects of sustainable energy systems.

Prof. Dr. Weisheng Zhou
Dr. You Li
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 250 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for assessment.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Energies is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

sustainable energy systems
renewable energy integration
energy transition
low-carbon technologies
energy system modeling
carbon neutrality
energy policy
resilient energy systems
grid flexibility

Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue

Ease of navigation: Grouping papers by topic helps scholars navigate broad scope journals more efficiently.
Greater discoverability: Special Issues support the reach and impact of scientific research. Articles in Special Issues are more discoverable and cited more frequently.
Expansion of research network: Special Issues facilitate connections among authors, fostering scientific collaborations.
External promotion: Articles in Special Issues are often promoted through the journal's social media, increasing their visibility.
Reprint: MDPI Books provides the opportunity to republish successful Special Issues in book format, both online and in print.

Further information on MDPI's Special Issue policies can be found here.

Published Papers (10 papers)

Download All Papers

Order results

Result details

Show export options Show export options

Select all

Export citation of selected articles as:

Research

Jump to: Review, Other

23 pages, 3380 KB

Open AccessArticle

Novel Sampling and Sample Preparation Systems with Industrial Validation for Biomass–Coal Co-Combustion Ratios Based on ¹⁴C Determination

by Pu Li, Zhongyang Luo, Xiaohuan Wang, Yinchen Wang, Chunjiang Yu, Zhiyang Yu, Shanhu Lin and Shenming Ran

Energies 2026, 19(6), 1474; https://doi.org/10.3390/en19061474 - 15 Mar 2026

Viewed by 503

Abstract

Focusing on enhancing the performance of the ¹⁴C method in determining biomass–coal co-combustion ratios, this study developed two novel sample preparation systems: a direct flue gas injection benzene synthesis system based on Liquid Scintillation Counting (LSC) and a direct flue gas sealing graphitization system based on Accelerator Mass Spectrometry (AMS). These systems reduced sample preparation time from 20–24 h to 6–8 h. Experimental validation showed relative errors in biomass blending ratios (1–40%) below ±4% for LSC and ±3% for AMS, except at the 1% blending condition. Compared with conventional methods, both accuracy and efficiency were significantly improved. An enhanced ¹⁴C-based industrial measurement scheme was established and successfully applied for monitoring biomass blending ratios (15–50%) in industrial facilities. Deviations between AMS and LSC were within ±3%, confirming the method’s accuracy, despite discrepancies with the Distributed Control System (DCS) estimates. Additionally, predictive formulas for ¹⁴C activity in biomass and air CO₂ reduced economic investment, with relative errors from ±0.04% to ±3.25%. Overall, the new scheme improved accuracy by 50%, efficiency by 60%, and reduced detection costs by 60–80%, demonstrating feasibility and practical value for industrial applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Energy Systems: Progress, Challenges and Prospects)

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

24 pages, 3958 KB

Open AccessArticle

Research on Integrated Energy Utilization of Desert Expressway Service Area Buildings

by Ying Han, Jiayao Li, Xiaokai Guo and Jiao Sun

Energies 2026, 19(6), 1387; https://doi.org/10.3390/en19061387 - 10 Mar 2026

Viewed by 363

Abstract

Aiming at the problems of high energy consumption and insufficient utilization potential of clean energy in expressway service areas in severe cold and arid desert areas, this paper takes the Xinjiang Kelameili Service Area as the research object to explore the optimal configuration scheme and comprehensive benefits of a photovoltaic system in this specific scenario, providing a technical reference for the energy transformation of transportation buildings in desert areas. The field research method was used to collect measured data of energy consumption and photovoltaic operation in the service area in 2022–2024. The photovoltaic simulation model was constructed using PVsyst 7.3.1 software. The inclination and azimuth parameters were optimized by the control variable method, and the energy savings, carbon emission reductions and economic benefits of the system were calculated by the whole life cycle analysis method. The study found that the total power consumption of the service area in 2024 was 3.661 million kWh, and the actual annual power generation of the existing photovoltaic system was 438 million Wh, accounting for only 12% of the total power consumption. After optimization, the optimal inclination angle of the photovoltaic panel was determined to be 14°, and the azimuth angle was 89°/−89°. Additionally, the maximum annual power generation of the system reached 579 MWh. Throughout the whole life cycle of the photovoltaic system, it is expected to save 1692 tons of standard coal, reduce CO₂ emissions by about 10,311.98 tons, reduce carbon revenue by about 524,800 yuan, and reduce comprehensive income by about 8,097,000 yuan. The static investment recovery period is about 22 years. Reasonable optimization of photovoltaic system configuration can effectively improve the self-sufficiency rate of clean energy in desert expressway service areas. The research results have reference significance for photovoltaic applications in service areas in similar alpine arid areas. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Energy Systems: Progress, Challenges and Prospects)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 2127 KB

Open AccessArticle

Development and Application of a Novel Prediction Self-Adaptive Control Technology in Ground Source Heat Pump System

by Zhiguo Cui, Mingyu Cao, Jing Liu, Yong Cao, Xiaofeng Mao, Yue Cen and Jiajie Li

Energies 2026, 19(4), 886; https://doi.org/10.3390/en19040886 - 9 Feb 2026

Viewed by 477

Abstract

For ground source heat pump (GSHP) systems, conventional control strategies often suffer from significant hysteresis, leading to energy waste and occupant discomfort. This study proposes and validates a novel Prediction Self-Adaptive Control (PSAC) technology that hybridizes deep learning foresight with robust engineering feedback loops. The architecture integrates a CNN-LSTM model to forecast building thermal loads with high fidelity, and this prediction drives a macro-scale unit commitment module that optimizes chiller sequencing. Simultaneously, a micro-scale self-adaptive feedback mechanism dynamically resets the chilled water supply temperature and modulates pump frequency to eliminate the residual error between the predicted state and the actual building demand, ensuring precise load matching. Field implementation in a 62,500 m² residential complex in Shanghai demonstrated that the CNN-LSTM model achieved a load forecasting accuracy within a ±10% error margin, the PSAC strategy significantly outperformed baseline constant-temperature controls, maintaining indoor temperatures between 23 and 26 °C and relative humidity between 30 and 55% and the system achieved a weekly average System Coefficient of Performance (SCOP) of 3.91 compared to the baseline of 3.30, resulting in an 15.6% reduction in total energy consumption. By decoupling predictive planning from adaptive execution, the system offers a scalable, robust, and highly efficient solution for the decarbonization of HVAC systems in complex climate zones. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Energy Systems: Progress, Challenges and Prospects)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

23 pages, 2275 KB

Open AccessArticle

Assessment of Resource Misallocation and Economic Efficiency Losses in Chinese Cities: A Heterogeneity Perspective on Renewable and Non-Renewable Energy Sources

by Mingwei Li and Xianzhong Mu

Energies 2026, 19(3), 586; https://doi.org/10.3390/en19030586 - 23 Jan 2026

Viewed by 616

Abstract

The misallocation of renewable (RE) and non-renewable energy (NRE) resources may lead to the inefficiency of economic development, thereby hindering the achievement of sustainable development goals. Basing data on 282 Chinese cities during 2005–2021, a relative factor price distortion coefficient was employed to estimate the degree and direction of resource misallocation (RM) for RE, NRE, capital, and labor at both the aggregate city level and across four disaggregated city categories. Output gaps and efficiency losses are further quantified by incorporating RM analysis into the economic growth accounting framework, revealing significant heterogeneity in RM across cities. Findings show that (1) RE and labor misallocation exceed those of NRE and capital at the city level. RE misallocation is dominant in energy misallocation. There exists an underallocation of RE, NRE, and labor, while capital is overallocated. (2) Renewable energy input and output (RE-IO) cities exhibit the highest overall RM (32.1%), whereas renewable energy input (RE-Input) cities possess the lowest ones (21.2%). Four city types demonstrate an underallocation of RE and an overallocation of capital. (3) Both output gaps and efficiency losses are on the rise. Output changes sources are transferred from the variations in factor inputs to those in total factor productivity (TFP). The contribution from the RM changes is limited. The results provide a reference for reducing RM and achieving energy transition. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Energy Systems: Progress, Challenges and Prospects)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

22 pages, 3658 KB

Open AccessArticle

Marginal Capacity Credit Analysis for Utility-Scale Solar and Wind Power: A Case Study in the Republic of Korea

by Chunhyun Paik, Yongjoo Chung and Young Jin Kim

Energies 2026, 19(2), 540; https://doi.org/10.3390/en19020540 - 21 Jan 2026

Viewed by 532

Abstract

This study presents a comprehensive analysis of the marginal capacity credit of utility-scale solar and wind power in South Korea using an effective load-carrying capability-based methodology. This research makes three key contributions distinguishing it from previous works. First, the study introduces the concept of marginal capacity credit to quantify the contributions of newly added renewable energy capacities in power systems that already host significant solar and wind power capacities. Second, it evaluates the interaction effects between solar and wind power, revealing their complementary potential in enhancing system adequacy across different penetration levels. Third, it investigates how integrating energy storage systems mitigates intermittency and aligns renewable generation with peak demand. Results indicate that solar power provides relatively high marginal capacity credit at low penetration levels due to its alignment with peak demand, but its contribution declines as deployment expands and peak hours shift. Conversely, wind power maintains more stable marginal capacity credit and eventually surpasses solar power at higher penetration levels due to its broader generation profile. Storage integration notably enhances marginal capacity credit for both resources, with solar power gaining greater benefit from optimized charging and discharging strategies. These findings provide practical guidance for improving power system reliability and capacity planning under growing renewable penetration. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Energy Systems: Progress, Challenges and Prospects)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

51 pages, 2840 KB

Open AccessArticle

Policy Synergy Scenarios for Tokyo’s Passenger Transport and Urban Freight: An Integrated Multi-Model LEAP Assessment

by Deming Kong, Lei Li, Deshi Kong, Shujie Sun and Xuepeng Qian

Energies 2026, 19(2), 366; https://doi.org/10.3390/en19020366 - 12 Jan 2026

Viewed by 881

Abstract

To identify the emission reduction potential and policy synergies of Tokyo’s road passenger and urban road freight transport under the “carbon neutrality target,” this paper constructs an assessment framework for megacities. First, based on macroeconomic socioeconomic variables (population, GDP, road length, and employment), regression equations are used to predict traffic turnover for different modes of transport from 2021 to 2050. Then, the prediction results are imported into the LEAP (Long-range Energy Alternatives Planning) model. By adjusting three policy levers—vehicle technology substitution (ZEV: EV/FCEV), energy intensity improvement, and upstream electricity and hydrogen supply decarbonization—a “single-factor vs. multi-factor (policy synergy)” scenario matrix is designed for comparison. The results show that the emission reduction potential of a single measure is limited; upstream decarbonization yields the greatest independent emission reduction effect, while the emission reduction effect of deploying zero-emission vehicles and improving energy efficiency alone is small. In the most ambitious composite scenario, emissions will decrease by approximately 83% by 2050 compared to the baseline scenario, with cumulative emissions decreasing by over 35%. Emissions from rail and taxis will approach zero, while buses and freight will remain the primary residual sources. This indicates that achieving net zero emissions in the transportation sector requires not only accelerated ZEV penetration but also the simultaneous decarbonization of electricity and hydrogen, as well as policy timing design oriented towards fleet replacement cycles. The integrated modeling and scenario analysis presented in this paper provide quantifiable evidence for the formulation of a medium- to long-term emissions reduction roadmap and the optimization of policy mix in Tokyo’s transportation sector. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Energy Systems: Progress, Challenges and Prospects)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 1336 KB

Open AccessArticle

Baltic Sea and Polish Ports as Key Elements in Energy Transition and Security

by Weronika Kosek, Norbert Chamier-Gliszczynski, Mirosław Krześniak and Rafał Zgorzelski

Energies 2025, 18(21), 5806; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18215806 - 4 Nov 2025

Viewed by 1701

Abstract

The Baltic Sea has become a strategic energy corridor for Poland and Central and Eastern Europe. It illustrates the dual challenge of maintaining short-term energy security while advancing long-term decarbonization. This paper investigates the role of Polish ports as critical nodes in this transformation. Using a qualitative and exploratory research design that combines policy analysis, secondary data, and case studies of oil, gas, and offshore wind facilities, the study shows how large ports consolidate their roles as gateways for fossil fuel diversification, while smaller ports are integrated into the offshore wind supply chain as service and maintenance bases. The analysis highlights the interdependence between European and national policy frameworks (REPowerEU, TEN-E, PEP2040) and port development, demonstrating how institutional conditions shape infrastructural resilience. At the same time, geopolitical risks and subsea vulnerabilities underline the necessity of treating ports as critical infrastructure requiring reinforced protection. The paper concludes that Polish ports act simultaneously as guarantors of immediate energy resilience and enablers of renewable transition, positioning the Baltic Sea as a cornerstone of Europe’s evolving energy architecture. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Energy Systems: Progress, Challenges and Prospects)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Review

Jump to: Research, Other

27 pages, 1048 KB

Open AccessReview

Exploring Dynamics of Korea’s Short-Term Energy Transition: A Multi-Level Perspective Approach

by Myunghee Kim

Energies 2026, 19(4), 1037; https://doi.org/10.3390/en19041037 - 16 Feb 2026

Viewed by 704

Abstract

The energy transition takes a long time and requires a complex process involving stakeholder consensus. This study aims to explore the political, economic, and sociocultural dynamics that emerged during the short-term energy transition between the Moon and Yoon administrations in Korea, assessing the current energy transition, which stands at a crossroads, and provides conclusions and implications to inform future decisions on the findings. To this purpose, a multi-level perspective analytical framework was applied to investigate the two administrations’ conflicting energy transition mechanisms on the level of actors, technologies, and rules/institutions. According to the results, the Moon administration pursued a reconfiguration pathway of limited changes by attempting to phase out nuclear power plants and expand renewable energy, while the Yoon administration promoted a transformation pathway of partial change by abandoning the policy of phasing out nuclear power plants and further expanding existing nuclear energy. Differences in pathways were found to stem from differentiation based on political ideology and political purposes among key actors, rather than socio-technological innovation. This paper argues that Korea’s short-term energy transition was hastily pursued amidst a lack of public discourse, insufficient technological development, and institutional deficiencies, ultimately blocking the pathway to a desirable energy transition and having Korea locked in its existing energy system. This paper also suggests that no single pathway exists to carbon neutrality, and that future administrations can find desirable pathways by overcoming challenges and dilemmas through continuous improvement and adjustment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Energy Systems: Progress, Challenges and Prospects)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

23 pages, 1901 KB

Open AccessReview

Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) in the Energy and Heating Sectors: Current Practices and Future Directions

by Mateusz Jakubiak, Katarzyna Sroka, Kamil Maciuk, Amgad Abazeed, Anastasiia Kovalova and Luis Santos

Energies 2026, 19(1), 5; https://doi.org/10.3390/en19010005 - 19 Dec 2025

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1837

Abstract

Dynamic social and legal transformations drive technological innovation and the transition of energy and heating sectors toward renewable sources and higher efficiency. Ensuring the reliable operation of these systems requires regular inspections, fault detection, and infrastructure maintenance. Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) are increasingly being used for monitoring and diagnostics of photovoltaic and wind farms, power transmission lines, and urban heating networks. Based on literature from 2015 to 2025 (Scopus database), this review compares UAV platforms, sensors, and inspection methods, including thermal, RGB/multispectral, LiDAR, and acoustic, highlighting current challenges. The analysis of legal regulations and resulting operational limitations for UAVs, based on the frameworks of the EU, the US, and China, is also presented. UAVs offer high-resolution data, rapid coverage, and cost reduction compared to conventional approaches. However, they face limitations related to flight endurance, weather sensitivity, regulatory restrictions, and data processing. Key trends include multi-sensor integration, coordinated multi-UAV missions, on-board edge-AI analytics, digital twin integration, and predictive maintenance. The study highlights the need to develop standardised data models, interoperable sensor systems, and legal frameworks that enable autonomous operations to advance UAV implementation in energy and heating infrastructure management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Energy Systems: Progress, Challenges and Prospects)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Other

Jump to: Research, Review

33 pages, 4356 KB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Large Language Models in Sustainable Energy Systems: A Systematic Review on Modeling, Optimization, Governance, and Alignment to Sustainable Development Goals

by T. A. Alka, M. Suresh, Santanu Mandal, Walter Leal Filho and Raghu Raman

Energies 2026, 19(6), 1588; https://doi.org/10.3390/en19061588 - 23 Mar 2026

Viewed by 1371

Abstract

Sustainable energy systems (SESs) support intelligent modeling, automation, and governance that enable energy access, infrastructure innovation, and climate resilience. Despite their potential, their integration with large language models (LLMs) raises concerns regarding energy intensity, transparency, equity, and regulation. This study adopts a mixed-methods review combining a BERTopic-based thematic analysis and case-based synthesis to examine applications of LLMs in energy modeling, optimization, etc., and to assess their alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. These applications support SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) by improving access to energy knowledge and decision support, SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure) through intelligent and scalable digital infrastructure, and SDG 13 (Climate Action) by climate-responsive planning and operational efficiency. The findings reveal that modular, agent-based LLM workflows enhance energy modeling and regulatory compliance. However, sustainability trade-offs necessitate responsible Artificial Intelligence (AI) governance emphasizing transparency, ethical design, and inclusivity. This review informs policy and practice by suggesting that LLMs offer potential value for sustainable energy application deployment within responsible AI governance frameworks that emphasize ethical design, accountability, and equitable access. The study provides future research directions using the ADO (antecedents–decisions–outcomes) framework, emphasizing regulatory readiness, ethical design, and inclusive governance aligned with SDGs 7, 9, and 13, among others. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Energy Systems: Progress, Challenges and Prospects)

► Show Figures

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

Sustainable Energy Systems: Progress, Challenges and Prospects

Share This Special Issue

Special Issue Editors

Special Issue Information

Keywords

Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue

Published Papers (10 papers)

Research

Review

Other

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI