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26 pages, 4570 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Towards Sustainability: Understanding Norway’s Ecological Footprint Through the Framework of the Environmental Kuznets Curve

by Irina Georgescu, Ionuț Nica and Jani Kinnunen

Energies 2024, 17(23), 6074; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17236074 - 2 Dec 2024

Viewed by 1065

Abstract

With rising concerns about environmental sustainability, examining the economic-environmental nexus is essential. This study investigates the relationship between economic growth (GDP), renewable energy consumption (RENC), urbanization (URB), and foreign direct investment (FDI) with Norway’s ecological footprint from 1990 to 2023. Guided by the [...] Read more.

With rising concerns about environmental sustainability, examining the economic-environmental nexus is essential. This study investigates the relationship between economic growth (GDP), renewable energy consumption (RENC), urbanization (URB), and foreign direct investment (FDI) with Norway’s ecological footprint from 1990 to 2023. Guided by the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) hypothesis, we aim to understand how these factors influence Norway’s environmental impact over time. Using an Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) model, the study captures both the short- and long-term effects of these variables on the ecological footprint, and model stability is confirmed through the Cumulative Sum of Squares (CUSUM) test. The findings reveal a U-shaped EKC pattern, where initial economic growth reduces the ecological footprint, but beyond a certain GDP threshold, environmental pressures increase. Renewable energy consumption is shown to lower the ecological footprint significantly, supporting Norway’s sustainability goals. Conversely, FDI is associated with increased environmental impact, potentially due to resource-intensive projects. These insights underscore the need for balanced policies that harmonize economic development with environmental preservation. Policymakers are encouraged to foster green FDI, prioritize renewable energy investments, and implement sustainable urban planning to maintain Norway’s trajectory toward ecological sustainability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Management: Economic, Social, and Ecological Aspects)

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31 pages, 1320 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Encouraging Residents to Save Energy by Using Smart Transportation: Incorporating the Propensity to Save Energy into the UTAUT Model

by Bożena Gajdzik, Marcin Awdziej, Magdalena Jaciow, Ilona Lipowska, Marcin Lipowski, Grzegorz Szojda, Jolanta Tkaczyk, Radosław Wolniak, Robert Wolny and Wieslaw Wes Grebski

Energies 2024, 17(21), 5341; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17215341 - 27 Oct 2024

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2066

Abstract

The rapid urbanization and technological advancements of the recent decades have increased the need for efficient and sustainable transportation solutions. This study examines the acceptance of smart transportation systems (STSs) among residents in Polish cities and explores the impact of these systems on [...] Read more.

The rapid urbanization and technological advancements of the recent decades have increased the need for efficient and sustainable transportation solutions. This study examines the acceptance of smart transportation systems (STSs) among residents in Polish cities and explores the impact of these systems on energy-saving behaviors. Using the extended Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT2) model, which includes the propensity to save energy, this research seeks to understand the determinants of STS adoption. The primary research was conducted using Computer-Assisted Web Interviewing (CAWI). The sample was controlled for gender and place of residence. A sample of 471 individuals meeting the criteria of living in a city with over 200,000 residents and using smart transportation solutions in Poland were selected from the research panel. SmartPLS 4 software was used to analyze the collected data. The findings reveal that the propensity to save energy significantly influences perceived usefulness, ease of use, social influence, and hedonic motivation toward STSs. Perceived usefulness and ease of use were found to be strong predictors of the intention to use STSs, while perceived costs had a negative impact on it. This study also identified the moderating role of personal innovativeness in mitigating cost concerns. These insights underscore the importance of emphasizing energy conservation benefits and user-friendly features in promoting the use of STSs. This study concludes that aligning technological innovations with user motivations for energy conservation can enhance the adoption of sustainable transportation solutions, contributing to smarter and more sustainable urban environments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Management: Economic, Social, and Ecological Aspects)

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14 pages, 1730 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

A Global Perspective on Renewable Energy Implementation: Commitment Requires Action

by Giacomo Di Foggia, Massimo Beccarello and Bakary Jammeh

Energies 2024, 17(20), 5058; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17205058 - 11 Oct 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1779

Abstract

Meeting renewable energy targets is one of the most significant global challenges to achieving SDG 7—Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all. This study focuses on the global energy transition to understand the factors that influence success or failure [...] Read more.

Meeting renewable energy targets is one of the most significant global challenges to achieving SDG 7—Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all. This study focuses on the global energy transition to understand the factors that influence success or failure in achieving targets. First, the gap between the stated targets and our predictions was calculated. Next, the roles of economic, political, and environmental variables in determining this gap were analyzed. Data were collected from 63 countries from 2000 to 2022, ensuring the global representativeness and robustness of the results. Many countries may struggle to meet their renewable energy targets. Political stability, regulatory quality, and investment freedom play a remarkable role in helping countries get closer to achieving their targets. More industrialized countries with large populations face greater challenges due to high energy intensity. This paper aims to predict the propensity of countries to meet their energy targets by integrating the forecasting and analysis of the economic, political, and geographical factors that influence a green transition. The results provide new insights into how socioeconomic and geopolitical differences influence the energy transition, offering insights for more effective policies. It is argued that accelerated administrative procedures are needed to reduce investment uncertainty and improve energy systems’ flexibility. In addition, involving local communities in the decision-making process is important to ensure the acceptance of RE projects. Finally, introducing energy markets that reflect the characteristics of renewable sources is recommended to facilitate a more rapid and sustainable transition. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Management: Economic, Social, and Ecological Aspects)

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19 pages, 1756 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Smart City and Sustainable Energy—Evidence from the European Union Capital Cities

by Blanka Tundys and Tomasz Wiśniewski

Energies 2024, 17(18), 4678; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17184678 - 20 Sep 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1460

Abstract

The aim of the paper was to identify which European capitals are sustainable and smart, why, and what influences the ranking. The main research hypothesis was to indicate that cities in the ‘old’ E.U. countries (richer and with higher levels of economic development) [...] Read more.

The aim of the paper was to identify which European capitals are sustainable and smart, why, and what influences the ranking. The main research hypothesis was to indicate that cities in the ‘old’ E.U. countries (richer and with higher levels of economic development) are more sustainable and smart. Furthermore, sustainable smart cities, by definition, through the use of advanced and modern management tools and technological support, should contribute to community resilience. Sustainable energy plays a significant role in the measurement system. The study’s results showed the differences that exist across countries, as well as the leaders in each smart category and area. This is interesting and new; from a research point of view, there has been no study based on OECD research and data confronting and correlating the range of data with indicators found in the literature. The study results show that the concept of a smart city is comprehensive and that it is necessary to analyze in depth the various sub-categories included in the measurement and assessment of smartness offered by different indicators. This is because it turns out that an overall score and ranking do not always mean that a city is smart in every area and every element included in smart. Statistical methods and literature analysis are used for the study. The results represent a novel development and contribution to the science discipline and can be the basis for further scientific exploration in this area. The research gap and challenge indicate whether there is a link and correlation between the use of sustainable energy in E.U. countries and the implementation of smart concepts in European capitals in the context of the division into ‘new’ and ‘old’ E.U. capitals. An important element is the verification of the thesis that ‘old’ capitals are more advanced in the implementation of smart cities and make greater use of sustainable energy to meet social and economic needs. The thesis has been partly falsified and confirmed negatively; the results are not obvious. It means that the ‘new’ E.U. countries are very skillful in using financial, organizational, and common development policy opportunities to make their cities modern, intelligent, and friendly to their inhabitants. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Management: Economic, Social, and Ecological Aspects)

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18 pages, 4919 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Cost of Green Hydrogen

by Janusz Kotowicz, Oliwia Baszczeńska and Kamil Niesporek

Energies 2024, 17(18), 4651; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17184651 - 18 Sep 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3626

Abstract

Acting in accordance with the requirements of the 2015 Paris Agreement, Poland, as well as other European Union countries, have committed to achieving climate neutrality by 2050. One of the solutions to reduce emissions of harmful substances into the environment is the implementation [...] Read more.

Acting in accordance with the requirements of the 2015 Paris Agreement, Poland, as well as other European Union countries, have committed to achieving climate neutrality by 2050. One of the solutions to reduce emissions of harmful substances into the environment is the implementation of large-scale hydrogen technologies. This article presents the cost of producing green hydrogen produced using an alkaline electrolyzer, with electricity supplied from a photovoltaic farm. The analysis was performed using the Monte Carlo method, and for baseline assumptions including an electricity price of 0.053 EUR/kWh, the cost of producing green hydrogen was 5.321 EUR/kgH₂. In addition, this article presents a sensitivity analysis showing the impact of the electricity price before and after the energy crisis and other variables on the cost of green hydrogen production. The large change occurring in electricity prices (from 0.035 EUR/kWh to 0.24 EUR/kWh) significantly affected the levelized cost of green hydrogen (LCOH), which could change by up to 14 EUR/kgH₂ in recent years. The results of the analysis showed that the parameters that successively have the greatest impact on the cost of green hydrogen production are the operating time of the plant and the unit capital expenditure. The development of green hydrogen production facilities, along with the scaling of technology in the future, can reduce the cost of its production. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Management: Economic, Social, and Ecological Aspects)

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22 pages, 3244 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Non-Industrial Solar Energy Use, Barriers, and Readiness: Case Study of Oman

by Ashraf Mishrif and Asharul Khan

Energies 2024, 17(16), 3917; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17163917 - 8 Aug 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2303

Abstract

The depletion of fossil fuels, economic concerns over the sharp fluctuations in oil prices, and environmental concerns including global warming have renewed interest in alternative green energy solutions in the form of renewable energy technologies. Solar energy is one of the most promising [...] Read more.

The depletion of fossil fuels, economic concerns over the sharp fluctuations in oil prices, and environmental concerns including global warming have renewed interest in alternative green energy solutions in the form of renewable energy technologies. Solar energy is one of the most promising and environmentally friendly forms of renewable energy for power generation. However, energy transition towards renewables has been slow in developing countries, particularly in the oil-rich Arab Gulf countries. To assess the perspective of Omani consumers in terms of solar energy use, barriers, and readiness to use solar energy for sustainable development, this study aims to determine the proportion of the Omani population who use solar energy, the barriers to solar energy consumption in Oman, people’s perceptions towards solar energy barriers, policies aimed at promoting solar energy programs, and the likelihood and willingness to use solar energy in the future. This analysis is based on quantitative data collected through a questionnaire survey distributed in Oman between 20 June 2023 to 12 August 2023. We used 113 samples for analysis using Principal Component Analysis and Krushkal–Wallis H-tests. Our results revealed that 95% of the residents and commercial units surveyed are willing to use solar PV in the future. The main barriers identified include high installation costs, high maintenance costs, and lack of awareness. The potential for growth in solar energy consumption and use depends on the capacity of the government to provide substantial incentives, financial support, improved quality, implement public-private partnership programs, as well as introduce a clear solar energy policy. While evaluating consumers’ awareness and intentions to use solar energy in the future, this study offers practical implications for policymakers to forecast the potential growth, identify effective policy instruments for promoting renewable energy, and determine the readiness of the country for transition to cleaner energy consumption. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Management: Economic, Social, and Ecological Aspects)

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18 pages, 1321 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of the Maturity of Urban Energy Internet Development Based on AHP-Entropy Weight Method and Improved TOPSIS

by Yongli Wang, Xiangyi Zhou, Hao Liu, Xichang Chen, Zixin Yan, Dexin Li, Chang Liu and Jiarui Wang

Energies 2023, 16(13), 5151; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16135151 - 4 Jul 2023

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1885

Abstract

With the rapid development of communication technology and information processing technology, the construction of the Urban Energy Internet (UEI) has become one of the important construction elements of the new power system, and it is necessary to assess and analyse its development status [...] Read more.

With the rapid development of communication technology and information processing technology, the construction of the Urban Energy Internet (UEI) has become one of the important construction elements of the new power system, and it is necessary to assess and analyse its development status and potential. However, the results of the current assessment of the maturity of UEI development are relatively rare, and the transformation path of urban smart energy construction needs to be studied in depth. On this basis, this study aims to propose an improved and comprehensive evaluation model for the maturity of UEI development. This study first considers the dynamic development process of the UEI and proposes an evaluation index system for the maturity of UEI development that includes three dimensions of development status, development benefits and development prospects. Secondly, a comprehensive evaluation model based on GRA-KL-TOPSIS is constructed by using the AHP-entropy weighting method to calculate the combined weights of indicators and considering the Kulla back-Leibler distance to replace the Euclidean distance in the traditional evaluation method. Finally, the maturity of Energy Internet development is calculated for five typical first-tier cities in China (Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Tianjin and Shenyang), and the final ranking of the five cities is Shanghai > Beijing > Guangzhou > Tianjin > Shenyang. The results of the study prove the scientific validity of the model. Compared to the unimproved Topsis method, the evaluation results calculated based on the improved Topsis evaluation model are more objective and realistic in reflecting the score and rating of the cities. The analysis of the empirical results shows that cities at different stages of development should make up for their shortcomings and increase their investment in infrastructure development, technological innovation and the introduction of talents in order to accelerate the digital and intelligent development of energy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Management: Economic, Social, and Ecological Aspects)

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20 pages, 1529 KiB

Open AccessArticle

External Costs to Agriculture Associated with Further Open Pit Lignite Mining from the Bełchatów Deposit

by Benedykt Pepliński

Energies 2023, 16(12), 4602; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16124602 - 8 Jun 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1140

Abstract

The energy crisis in Europe and Poland caused by the conflict in Ukraine has renewed the debate in some countries about the wisdom of abandoning the use of local fossil fuels. The rise in gas and oil prices with little change in the [...] Read more.

The energy crisis in Europe and Poland caused by the conflict in Ukraine has renewed the debate in some countries about the wisdom of abandoning the use of local fossil fuels. The rise in gas and oil prices with little change in the cost of extracting lignite from open pit mines has led to a renewed consideration of lignite as the cheapest source of energy. This is not entirely true, as the level of costs at power plants ignores many external costs that are not included in the costs of energy producers, but are borne by the general public or other parties. One such cost is the external costs incurred by agriculture as a result of open pit lignite mining and the associated depression funnels. The Bełchatów lignite open pit is the deepest open pit in Europe and is expected to be in operation by 2038. The aim of the study was to assess the external costs that farmers will incur as a result of further open pit mining of brown call from the Bełchatów deposit, i.e., between 2023 and 2038 as well as in the 16-year extended period of restoration of water relations around the open pit. The decrease in crop yields and animal numbers was estimated in a comparative analysis, which compared changes in the yields of selected plants and animals in the area affected by the open pit to those in neighboring areas that were not affected. The analysis showed that the external costs to be borne by agriculture as a result of the further exploitation of the Bełchatów deposit will amount to an average of EUR 2.90 billion, and, depending on the calculation variant, from EUR 2.51 billion to EUR 3.14 billion. Including this amount in the cost of electricity production would result in an increase of EUR 9.11·MWh⁻¹, which is 18.8% of the average wholesale price of electricity in Poland in 2017–2021. On the one hand, the increased consumption of lignite in electricity production, which is currently observed and may last for several years, may shorten the life of the open pit by up to 2 years. Shortening the mining period by one year, assuming that all the coal in the deposit is mined, will reduce the external costs for agriculture by about EUR 185 million, i.e., EUR 0.58·MWh⁻¹. On the other hand, the increase in European Emissions Trading System (ETS) prices, the decrease in gas prices and the increase in energy production from renewable energy source (RES) will make lignite power generation profitable only during the periods with the highest prices, so that by 2038 lignite will not be mined in its entirety. Every 10 Gg of coal that will not be mined by 2038 will result in an increase in external costs in agriculture per MWh of EUR 0.23·MWh⁻¹. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Management: Economic, Social, and Ecological Aspects)

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8 pages, 224 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

The Energy Situation in the Federal Republic of Germany: Analysis of the Current Situation and Perspectives for a Non-Fossil Energy Supply

by Frank Atzler, Julian Türck, Ralf Türck and Jürgen Krahl

Energies 2023, 16(12), 4569; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16124569 - 7 Jun 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2335

Abstract

Formulating energy policies at national, European, and global levels is extremely challenging. The move away from fossil fuels is associated with a variety of technological, economic, and social implications, each of which is subject to dynamic changes and societal scrutiny and can hardly [...] Read more.

Formulating energy policies at national, European, and global levels is extremely challenging. The move away from fossil fuels is associated with a variety of technological, economic, and social implications, each of which is subject to dynamic changes and societal scrutiny and can hardly be predicted with certainty. Therefore, a fact-based assessment for the path to a sustainable green energy future is sought out in this paper, using the road-based mobility sector of the Federal Republic of Germany as an example. The analysis performed in this paper is built on publicly accessible, reputable sources like DESTATIS and EUROSTAT. In addition, some very simple calculations were made, e.g., on the potential for wind and photovoltaic energy within Germany. Such an analysis needs to start with the overall energy consumption of any one country. A basic assumption of the paper is that the energy system of the future will be based to a large extent on electricity and its storage in chemical energy. It is assumed that, in addition to hydrogen, liquid energy sources will play a significant role due to the simplicity of their logistics and the subsequent implications on cost. Examples of green, electricity-based fuels with great potential are methanol, methane, and ammonia. Additionally, biomass plays an important role, either for direct use as a fuel or as a source of non-fossil carbon. Today, biofuels, i.e., biodiesel and bioethanol, deliver the largest contribution to climate protection in the EU transport sector. The main goal—the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions—often collides with geopolitical circumstances or national political necessities. This includes, for example, the current world market situation and its national impacts caused by the Russian attack on Ukraine. The prospect for a green, sustainable, and defossilized energy supply are discussed in this context. The paper concludes that a defossilized world energy supply and trade based on renewable electricity and its derivatives, eHydrogen and refuels, and on biomass, is feasible. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Management: Economic, Social, and Ecological Aspects)

15 pages, 3100 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Improving Energy Performance in Flexographic Printing Process through Lean and AI Techniques: A Case Study

by Zaher Abusaq, Sadaf Zahoor, Muhammad Salman Habib, Mudassar Rehman, Jawad Mahmood, Mohammad Kanan and Ray Tahir Mushtaq

Energies 2023, 16(4), 1972; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16041972 - 16 Feb 2023

Cited by 24 | Viewed by 5428

Abstract

Flexographic printing is a highly sought-after technique within the realm of packaging and labeling due to its versatility, cost-effectiveness, high speed, high-quality images, and environmentally friendly nature. A major challenge in flexographic printing is the need to optimize energy usage, which requires diligent [...] Read more.

Flexographic printing is a highly sought-after technique within the realm of packaging and labeling due to its versatility, cost-effectiveness, high speed, high-quality images, and environmentally friendly nature. A major challenge in flexographic printing is the need to optimize energy usage, which requires diligent attention to resolve. This research combines lean principles and machine learning to improve energy efficiency in selected flexographic printing machines; i.e., Miraflex and F&K. By implementing the 5Why root cause analysis and Kaizen, the study found that the idle time was reduced by 30% for the Miraflex machine and the F&K machine, resulting in energy savings of 34.198% and 38.635% per meter, respectively. Additionally, a multi-linear regression model was developed using machine learning and a range of input parameters, such as machine speed, production meter, substrate density, machine idle time, machine working time, and total machine run time, to predict energy consumption and optimize job scheduling. The results of the research exhibit that the model was efficient and accurate, leading to a reduction in energy consumption and costs while maintaining or even improving the quality of the printed output. This approach can also add to reducing the carbon footprint of the manufacturing process and help companies meet sustainability goals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Management: Economic, Social, and Ecological Aspects)

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31 pages, 986 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessing the Level of Energy Poverty Using a Synthetic Multidimensional Energy Poverty Index in EU Countries

by Barbara Kryk and Malgorzata K. Guzowska

Energies 2023, 16(3), 1333; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16031333 - 27 Jan 2023

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3166

Abstract

The purpose of the article is to analyse the level of energy poverty in the EU member states for the period 2010–2020. The research was carried out on the basis of the author’s Synthetic Multidimensional Energy Poverty Index created on the basis of [...] Read more.

The purpose of the article is to analyse the level of energy poverty in the EU member states for the period 2010–2020. The research was carried out on the basis of the author’s Synthetic Multidimensional Energy Poverty Index created on the basis of the zero-unitarization method. The proposed index allowed for the integration of 4 out of 13 indicators provided for the study of energy poverty in the Recommendation of the European Commission 2020, and 1 selected by the authors. The assessment of changes in the level of energy poverty over time in 24 EU countries using the method used adds value compared to the assessment methods used so far in this area. Previous studies of energy poverty levels have focused on individual countries or small groups of countries. Rarely have such studies covered the majority of EU countries, and even more rarely have they been conducted over a long period of time. The study carried out showed significant differences in energy poverty levels among EU members. Results obtained not only reflect the progress of member countries in reducing energy poverty, but also allow for a discussion on future approaches regarding its reduction. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Management: Economic, Social, and Ecological Aspects)

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17 pages, 740 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Clean and Affordable Energy within Sustainable Development Goals: The Role of Governance Digitalization

by Radoslaw Miskiewicz

Energies 2022, 15(24), 9571; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15249571 - 16 Dec 2022

Cited by 72 | Viewed by 5628

Abstract

Achieving sustainable development goals depends on governance effectiveness within the penetration of digital technologies in all spheres and levels. Furthermore, the energy sector is a crucial inhibitor of sustainable development that depends on the efficacy of digital public services. In this case, the [...] Read more.

Achieving sustainable development goals depends on governance effectiveness within the penetration of digital technologies in all spheres and levels. Furthermore, the energy sector is a crucial inhibitor of sustainable development that depends on the efficacy of digital public services. In this case, the paper aims at analyzing the impact of e-governance on achieving sustainable development goals, particularly on affordable and clean energy. The object of research is EU countries in the period 2013–2019. The data are compiled from the databases of Eurostat, the World Data Bank, and the Sustainable Development Report. The study applies the following methods: the taxonomy method to measure the e-governance index, the fixed effect, the random effect, and a pooled OLS regression model to check the impact of e-governance on affordable and clean energy. The results outlined the leaders (Estonia, Denmark, Finland, Sweden, Latvia, and Malta) and the outsiders (Romania, Croatia, Greece, Bulgaria, and Poland) in e-governance in 2019. The findings confirm the statistically positive impact of e-governance on extending affordable and clean energy. Thus, improving e-governance by 1 point causes the growth of renewable energy on average by 4.4 points. Furthermore, the industrial structures’ improvement allows increasing renewable energy on average by 0.4 and the trade activization (economic openness) contributes to an increase of renewable energy on average by 0.1. The democracy level does not have a statistically significant impact on achieving sustainable development goals for EU countries. The empirical results show that the countries with high values of e-governance (Sweden, Latvia, Finland, Denmark, and Austria) achieve the highest values of the SDG7 Index Score. Thus, within EU countries, governance digitalization is the strategic inhibitor of SDG achievement. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Management: Economic, Social, and Ecological Aspects)

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20 pages, 6250 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Nature-Based Solutions in Poland against Climate Change

by Edyta Małecka-Ziembińska and Izabela Janicka

Energies 2022, 15(1), 357; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15010357 - 4 Jan 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3253

Abstract

One of the currently promoted methods of counteracting climate change is nature-based climate solutions, which harness the power of nature to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Sustainable management of ecosystems is a guarantee for sustained human well-being. This underestimated, but extremely efficient and cheap [...] Read more.

One of the currently promoted methods of counteracting climate change is nature-based climate solutions, which harness the power of nature to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Sustainable management of ecosystems is a guarantee for sustained human well-being. This underestimated, but extremely efficient and cheap method of integrating nature resources into the urban fabric is an economic “injection” for communal authorities. These “green” benefits should be standard in land-use planning in the era of anthropocentrism. Solutions based on nature were the reason for investigating their perception by Polish municipalities. The survey covered the entire country (all 2477 municipalities) from 20 July to 31 August 2021 through an electronic survey, obtaining 2128 responses (85.9% return rate). In the final result, data were obtained that support the hypotheses posed in the study. The main objective of the research was to check the level of activity of municipalities in Poland in the field of proecological activities using nature-based solutions (NbS). The survey results confirmed little knowledge of nature-based solutions, at the same time giving it an educational dimension. Half of the respondents declared that they learned about NbS only from the survey. Polish decision makers and municipal authorities introduce some solutions based on nature without being aware of their European classification and adequate nomenclature. Environmental awareness in Poland remains largely the domain of urban municipalities, with higher current budget revenues per capita and in the central and western parts of the country. NbS are marginal in rural municipalities, which can be explained by the lack of ecological specialists, less car traffic and more single-family houses and thus modest public areas. The following surveys covering the entire territory of Poland are the first to be carried out on such a large scale. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Management: Economic, Social, and Ecological Aspects)

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21 pages, 1175 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Energy Management in the Railway Industry: A Case Study of Rail Freight Carrier in Poland

by Aleksandra Kuzior and Marek Staszek

Energies 2021, 14(21), 6875; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14216875 - 20 Oct 2021

Cited by 25 | Viewed by 3510

Abstract

Energy is crucial to economic development, but its production usually has a negative impact on the environment. This ambivalence leads to the need for methods to improve energy efficiency. Transportation is one of the largest global energy consumers. Therefore, improving the energy efficiency [...] Read more.

Energy is crucial to economic development, but its production usually has a negative impact on the environment. This ambivalence leads to the need for methods to improve energy efficiency. Transportation is one of the largest global energy consumers. Therefore, improving the energy efficiency of transportation is crucial for sustainable development. The aim of this article is to show the limitations of energy management in railways, resulting from the model of market regulation. The question in this context is whether only technological methods can be used in railways to steer its energy efficiency, as is suggested by the existing research. Critical analysis, desk research and a case study of Polish railway undertaking were used to find an answer to the research question. The discussion of the results shows that the European regulatory system leads to greater complications in the field of energy management than in other global regions, where railways are also important for the economy. Due to these limitations, rail operators use indirect methods to measure energy efficiency. Results indicate that although energy efficiency improvements are being achieved, they are mainly due to organizational measures and not technological ones as could be expected based on previous research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Management: Economic, Social, and Ecological Aspects)

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20 pages, 1513 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Study of the Human Factor in Industry 4.0 Based on the Automotive Industry

by Mariusz J. Ligarski, Barbara Rożałowska and Krzysztof Kalinowski

Energies 2021, 14(20), 6833; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14206833 - 19 Oct 2021

Cited by 23 | Viewed by 4494

Abstract

Human factor plays an important role in the implementation of the fourth industrial revolution (Industry 4.0). The concept of Industry 4.0 is poorly researched, particularly the social aspect. The authors have conducted a study to determine the level of preparation of employees for [...] Read more.

Human factor plays an important role in the implementation of the fourth industrial revolution (Industry 4.0). The concept of Industry 4.0 is poorly researched, particularly the social aspect. The authors have conducted a study to determine the level of preparation of employees for the introduction of technological changes. This study involved conducting a survey on a sample of 453 employees based in four organizations within the automotive industry. The respondents were thereafter divided into groups based on age and positions held. The employees’ knowledge of the Industry 4.0 technology was examined, and their openness to change and readiness to increase competence was determined. A causal relationship was found between knowledge and trust in technology. Employees’ fears associated with production automation were discussed. A group of production workers was found to be the least prepared to implement technology changes. Actions to improve the situation and potential consequences of inadequate implementation of this technology were indicated. The findings from this study were compared with the results obtained in other countries. Special attention was paid to the limitations of this study, and we identified the necessity to conduct international comparative research on small, medium and large enterprises. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Management: Economic, Social, and Ecological Aspects)

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34 pages, 3584 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Approach to an Emulation Model to Evaluate the Behavior and Impact of Microgrids in Isolated Communities

by Carlos M. Paredes, Andrés F. Bayona, Diego Martínez, Alfons Crespo, Apolinar González and José Simo

Energies 2021, 14(17), 5316; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14175316 - 27 Aug 2021

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2449

Abstract

In microgrid projects, social ownership involves aspects beyond their operation that may compromise the sustainability of the system. For this reason, the development of analysis methods to assess the feasibility and impact during the design stages of these solutions is of growing interest. [...] Read more.

In microgrid projects, social ownership involves aspects beyond their operation that may compromise the sustainability of the system. For this reason, the development of analysis methods to assess the feasibility and impact during the design stages of these solutions is of growing interest. Recent studies have proposed methods that allow an individual analysis of technological components and social behaviors. However, a complete evaluation of the performance and the impact of these projects should allow the simultaneous evaluation of the behavior of these subsystems, allowing the analysis of their interactions and effects in a dynamic way. Accordingly, this paper presents simulation and emulation models to evaluate the impact of a microgrid in isolated communities. These models contemplate sublevels that consider the energetic, automation and computational aspects in the microgrids and a multi-agent system (MAS) that is used to study the environmental and economic impact of the microgrid through the evolution of certain indicators. The socio-technological interdependence in the operation of the isolated microgrid is analyzed through the integration of the microgrid emulation platform with the MAS. Our approach includes a comprehensive study of the performance of these projects in specific communities, in order to contribute to the design and implementation, considering the technological, economic, environmental, and social impacts. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Management: Economic, Social, and Ecological Aspects)

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24 pages, 2864 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of Electrification on African Development-Analysis with Using Grey Systems Theory

by Marcin Nowak, Aleksandra Rabczun and Paweł Łopatka

Energies 2021, 14(16), 5181; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14165181 - 22 Aug 2021

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2621

Abstract

In this paper, the authors discuss the problem of the influence of the level of electrification in African countries on their sustainable development. The first aim of the article is to determine the relationship between changes in the electrification index and changes in [...] Read more.

In this paper, the authors discuss the problem of the influence of the level of electrification in African countries on their sustainable development. The first aim of the article is to determine the relationship between changes in the electrification index and changes in the indicators showing individual components of sustainable development for African countries. The analyzed indicators of sustainable development include GDP per capita, Human Deveopment Index (HDI), and the CO₂ emissions per capita indicator. The second goal of the article was to develop a synthetic indicator of sustainable development. This study uses the method of relationship research based on Gray Systems Theory—Gray Incidence Analysis. The main conclusion from the research carried out is that improving access to electricity is a necessary condition for the sustainable development of African countries. The lack of improvement in the availability of electricity is a basic barrier to development, especially in the poorest African countries. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Management: Economic, Social, and Ecological Aspects)

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18 pages, 1424 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effective Management Tools for Solving the Problem of Poverty in Relation to Food Waste in Context of Integrated Management of Energy

by Bohuslava Mihalčová, Antonín Korauš, Olha Prokopenko, Jozefína Hvastová, Magdaléna Freňáková, Peter Gallo and Beáta Balogová

Energies 2021, 14(14), 4245; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14144245 - 14 Jul 2021

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 3435

Abstract

Globally, millions of people suffer from poverty. This paper discusses the problem of poverty especially in relation to food waste. The prevention of food waste can also contribute to global poverty reduction, and the reduction of food waste is a tool for sustainable [...] Read more.

Globally, millions of people suffer from poverty. This paper discusses the problem of poverty especially in relation to food waste. The prevention of food waste can also contribute to global poverty reduction, and the reduction of food waste is a tool for sustainable growth and competitiveness. At present, the number of people at risk of poverty and the amount of food waste are increasing at unsustainable rates. An integrated and efficient tool for the management of food, energy, and water (FEW) resources to improve FEW security via an interdisciplinary approach could help address several of the most significant global challenges, such as climate change, and economic, environmental, and social security. The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between the existence of poverty and the treatment of food for sustainable growth. The analysis focused on the EU countries and the main data source was the Eurostat database. Households generally create the largest proportion of food waste. Pareto analysis shows that in households, food and non-alcoholic beverages are among the first group of expenses, and in the EU countries they represent approximately 12% of the total expenses. Food and non-alcoholic beverages are a stable, unavoidable, and non-negligible element of total expenses. Paradoxically, enormous amounts of food are wasted. A relatively weak inversely proportional relationship between the amount of food waste per capita and the proportion of the population at risk of poverty among the total population of EU countries was identified through correlational analysis. A very weak relationship between the share of the population at risk of poverty in the total population and the amount of food waste per capita, excluding the population at risk of poverty, was also found. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Management: Economic, Social, and Ecological Aspects)

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22 pages, 5051 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Secondary Energy Sources and Their Optimization in the Context of the Tax Gap on Petrol and Diesel

by Antonín Korauš, Miroslav Gombár, Alena Vagaská, Stanislav Šišulák and Filip Černák

Energies 2021, 14(14), 4121; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14144121 - 8 Jul 2021

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2391

Abstract

This paper presents an energy management strategy for secondary energy sources and their optimization in the context of the tax gap on mineral oils represented by the tax gap on petrol and diesel. Energy companies face drastic economic and environmental challenges; therefore, this [...] Read more.

This paper presents an energy management strategy for secondary energy sources and their optimization in the context of the tax gap on mineral oils represented by the tax gap on petrol and diesel. Energy companies face drastic economic and environmental challenges; therefore, this area necessarily requires the setting up of transparent economic instruments and, of course, production. The tax gap in VAT collection represents the gap between how much the state could potentially collect from VAT in accordance with the law and how much VAT really comes into the state coffers. The loss of tax revenues is caused by unpaid and undeclared tax liability. The Estimation of the Gap on Corporate Tax in Slovakia is a pilot project of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in cooperation with the Institute for Financial Policy (IFP). The results present the estimation of the tax gap within a two-year delay. It is necessary to consider the estimation of the tax gap in the last two years as preliminary due to possible revisions of the national accounts data. Estimations of the tax gap from 2010 to 2017 indicate a decreasing trend. The significant part of the tax gap decrease can be observed from 2014. The main factor, which determines this decrease, is the improving condition of the Slovak economy. From the point of view of the tax gap, the volume of losses is decreasing and the volume of profit, from which the tax is paid, is increasing. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Management: Economic, Social, and Ecological Aspects)

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16 pages, 707 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Factorial-Reflexive Approach to Diagnosing the Executors’ and Contractors’ Attitude to Achieving the Objectives by Energy Supplying Companies

by Aleksandra Kuzior, Aleksy Kwilinski and Ihor Hroznyi

Energies 2021, 14(9), 2572; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14092572 - 30 Apr 2021

Cited by 75 | Viewed by 3352

Abstract

The article aims to enhance understanding of how relations, behavior and attitude of the executives and contractors to achieving the objectives by energy supplying companies affect the efficiency of the latter’s overall development. There is offered a factor-reflexive approach to diagnosing the executives’ [...] Read more.

The article aims to enhance understanding of how relations, behavior and attitude of the executives and contractors to achieving the objectives by energy supplying companies affect the efficiency of the latter’s overall development. There is offered a factor-reflexive approach to diagnosing the executives’ and contractors’ attitude to realizing the tasks of developing the energy supplying companies. This approach includes models to identify and analyze the factors that influenced the change in contractors’ behavior based on the combination of expert techniques, correlation and regression analysis and evaluation of the personnel response to organizational, resource and staffing projects development, through accumulating sufficient statistical information based on the enterprise’s features, relations and environment. This approach to diagnosing executives’ and contractors’ response to the implementation of tasks and the resulting changes takes into account the subjective component of their response. Practical implementation of this approach in monitoring the conformity of the development tasks has proven the ability to identify problems from the viewpoint of the task executives. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Management: Economic, Social, and Ecological Aspects)

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30 pages, 1856 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Systemic Approach for Estimating and Strategizing Energy Security: The Case of Ukraine

by Yurii Kharazishvili, Aleksy Kwilinski, Oleksandr Sukhodolia, Henryk Dzwigol, Dmytro Bobro and Janusz Kotowicz

Energies 2021, 14(8), 2126; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14082126 - 10 Apr 2021

Cited by 102 | Viewed by 4208

Abstract

The current approaches to estimating the level of energy security are based on applying a comprehensive approach to selecting the factors that affect energy security and the dynamics of processes in this domain. This article reveals the application of the model of energy [...] Read more.

The current approaches to estimating the level of energy security are based on applying a comprehensive approach to selecting the factors that affect energy security and the dynamics of processes in this domain. This article reveals the application of the model of energy security estimation and strategizing based on the systemic description of energy security as an object of management: the integral system, elements and connections, functions, processes, and the system’s material. At the same time, this model is able to take into account the dynamics of technological, political, economic, and other factors operating in the country and on the global arena. The energy security estimation model developed uses a modern methodology of integrated estimation: a multiplicative form of the integrated index, a formalized definition of the safe existence limits in order to provide scientific substantiation of the threshold vector, a modified rationing method, the principal components method, and the sliding matrix method to substantiate dynamic weighting coefficients. The paper demonstrates the systemic approach application to shaping strategic goals in the energy security domain in the context of sustainable development; the trajectory of energy security development is calculated by the method of strategizing that applies the principle “future is determined by the trajectory to the future” instead of the classical forecasting “past determines the future”. In general, the article shows the possibility of unifying the process of formalizing energy security (according to the needs of the researcher: country, industry, energy network, supply chain) as an object of management, estimating energy security status, and strategizing the regulatory sphere transformation in accordance with the target values for monitoring the effectiveness of management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Management: Economic, Social, and Ecological Aspects)

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30 pages, 4684 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Application of MICMAC, Fuzzy AHP, and Fuzzy TOPSIS for Evaluation of the Maintenance Factors Affecting Sustainable Manufacturing

by Małgorzata Jasiulewicz-Kaczmarek, Katarzyna Antosz, Ryszard Wyczółkowski, Dariusz Mazurkiewicz, Bo Sun, Cheng Qian and Yi Ren

Energies 2021, 14(5), 1436; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14051436 - 5 Mar 2021

Cited by 55 | Viewed by 5095

Abstract

This paper presents an empirical study on the impact of maintenance function on more sustainable manufacturing processes. The work methodology comprises four stages. At first, ten factors of maintenance activities from a sustainable manufacturing point of view were identified. Then, in the second [...] Read more.

This paper presents an empirical study on the impact of maintenance function on more sustainable manufacturing processes. The work methodology comprises four stages. At first, ten factors of maintenance activities from a sustainable manufacturing point of view were identified. Then, in the second stage, the matrix of crossed impact multiplications applied to a classification (MICMAC) was carried out to categorize these factors based on their influence and dependence values. In the third stage, the criteria for evaluation of maintenance factors were defined, then the fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (F-AHP) was applied to determine their relative weights. In the last stage, the results of MICMAC and F-AHP analyses were used as inputs for the fuzzy technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution (F-TOPIS) to generate aggregate scores and selection of the most important maintenance factors that have an impact on sustainable manufacturing processes. A numerical example is provided to demonstrate the applicability of the approach. It was observed that factors “Implementation of preventive and prognostic service strategies”, “The usage of M&O data collection and processing systems”, and “Modernization of machines and devices” are the major factors that support the realization of sustainable manufacturing process challenges. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Management: Economic, Social, and Ecological Aspects)

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13 pages, 1671 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of the Government Policy on the Energy Efficient Gap: The Evidence from Ukraine

by Oleksii Lyulyov, Tetyana Pimonenko, Aleksy Kwilinski, Henryk Dzwigol, Mariola Dzwigol-Barosz, Vladyslav Pavlyk and Piotr Barosz

Energies 2021, 14(2), 373; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14020373 - 11 Jan 2021

Cited by 107 | Viewed by 4770

Abstract

This paper aims to check the impact of investment and institutional determinants on the energy efficiency gap. The findings of the bibliometric analysis confirmed the growth of research interests in identifying the core determinants of the energy efficiency gap. The central hypothesises are: [...] Read more.

This paper aims to check the impact of investment and institutional determinants on the energy efficiency gap. The findings of the bibliometric analysis confirmed the growth of research interests in identifying the core determinants of the energy efficiency gap. The central hypothesises are: the increasing quality of the institutions leads to an increase of green investments in the energy sector and the dual relationships between investment and institutional determinants lead to additional synergy effects, which allow boosting the decline of energy efficiency gaps of the national economy. For the analysis, the times series were collected from the World Data Bank, Eurostat, Bloomberg, for Ukraine for the period of 2002–2019. The following methods were used: the unit root test—for checking the stationarity of data—and the Johansen test and VEC-modelling—for the cointegration analysis. The findings prove that to reduce the energy efficiency gaps in Ukraine by 1% next year, it is necessary to increase green energy investments by 1.5% this year, and the political stability and public perception of corruption by 3% and 1%. The increase of the public perception of corruption by 1.47 points and of political stability by 2.38 points leads to maximising the recovery speed of the Ukrainian energy sector. Thus, while developing the policy to decrease the energy efficiency gaps, the Ukrainian government should consider the level of public perception of corruption and political stability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Management: Economic, Social, and Ecological Aspects)

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20 pages, 1027 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Social Perspectives in Digital Business Models of Railway Enterprises

by Adam Jabłoński and Marek Jabłoński

Energies 2020, 13(23), 6445; https://doi.org/10.3390/en13236445 - 5 Dec 2020

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 3835

Abstract

The digital transformation of business models is a process which helps traditional business solutions reach new functionalities through innovative technologies. Digital transformation is now crucial to the development of the rail transport sector. The main rail market entities are railway undertakings, infrastructure managers, [...] Read more.

The digital transformation of business models is a process which helps traditional business solutions reach new functionalities through innovative technologies. Digital transformation is now crucial to the development of the rail transport sector. The main rail market entities are railway undertakings, infrastructure managers, entities in charge of maintenance, or certification bodies. Digitalization creates new opportunities to shape the business ecosystem in the rail transport sector. The aim of the research is to identify and indicate key social perspectives related to the development of digital business models functioning in railway enterprises. Technological aspects and relational determinants related to the strong mutual cooperation required between railway undertakings and infrastructure managers have particular significance in this context. In this approach, the digitalization of processes is important. The approach also reveals a significant process of business model socialization, which is conceptualized and operationalized through the evolution of social factors based on digital transformation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Management: Economic, Social, and Ecological Aspects)

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15 pages, 2065 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Efficiency of Electricity Production Technology from Post-Process Gas Heat: Ecological, Economic and Social Benefits

by Radosław Miśkiewicz

Energies 2020, 13(22), 6106; https://doi.org/10.3390/en13226106 - 21 Nov 2020

Cited by 101 | Viewed by 3875

Abstract

The strengthening of ecological conflicts due to the increase of the destructive impact from industrial companies on the environment provokes the development and implementation of the eco-innovation technologies. Besides, such technologies should allow obtaining not only the ecological benefits (the decrease of the [...] Read more.

The strengthening of ecological conflicts due to the increase of the destructive impact from industrial companies on the environment provokes the development and implementation of the eco-innovation technologies. Besides, such technologies should allow obtaining not only the ecological benefits (the decrease of the negative impact on the environment) but also the economic and social advantages which correspond to sustainable development principles. This paper aims to justify the social, ecological and economic effects from implementing a new electricity production technology from post-process gas heat at companies. The data for empirical justification were obtained from the experiment of applying the electricity production technology from post-process gas heat at Polish industrial companies. In the first stage, bibliometric analysis was used for highlighting the scientific background of economic evaluation of the innovative activity on energy technologies of industrial companies and its impact on the environment and public health. Secondly, the economic and ecological efficiency of electricity production technology for the selected company was estimated. The results of the analysis confirm that new technologies allowed increasing the energy efficiency of the company by decreasing energy consumption, increasing productivity, etc. The findings prove that one of the ecological effects was the decrease of CO₂ and SO₂ emissions in the air. In this case, the link between the volume of CO₂ emissions and the rate of morbidity if such innovative technologies were scaled was checked. The findings show that decreasing CO₂ emissions by 1% leads to a decline in the death rate by 0.5%. If the new technology were scaled and implemented among similar industrial companies, it could decrease the rate of morbidity by 0.01% The results obtained could be used by the companies’ management and policymakers in the framework to achieve sustainable development goals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Management: Economic, Social, and Ecological Aspects)

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21 pages, 2320 KiB

Open AccessReview

Advancements and Challenges in Direct Air Capture Technologies: Energy Intensity, Novel Methods, Economics, and Location Strategies

by Janusz Kotowicz, Kamil Niesporek and Oliwia Baszczeńska

Energies 2025, 18(3), 496; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18030496 - 22 Jan 2025

Viewed by 1770

Abstract

Direct air capture (DAC) technology is increasingly recognized as a key tool in the pursuit of climate neutrality, enabling the removal of carbon dioxide directly from the atmosphere. Despite its potential, DAC remains in the early stages of development, with most installations limited [...] Read more.

Direct air capture (DAC) technology is increasingly recognized as a key tool in the pursuit of climate neutrality, enabling the removal of carbon dioxide directly from the atmosphere. Despite its potential, DAC remains in the early stages of development, with most installations limited to pilot or demonstration units. The main barriers to its widespread implementation include high energy demands and significant capture costs. This literature review addresses the most critical research directions related to the development of this technology, focusing on its challenges and prospects for deployment. Particular attention is given to studies aimed at developing new, cost-effective, and efficient sorbents that could significantly reduce the energy intensity and costs of the process. Alternative technologies, such as electrochemical and membrane-based processes, show promise but require further research to overcome limitations, such as sensitivity to oxygen presence or insufficient membrane selectivity. The economic feasibility of DAC remains uncertain, with current estimates subject to significant uncertainty. Governmental and regulatory support will be crucial for the technology’s success. Furthermore, the location of DAC installations should consider factors such as energy availability, options for carbon dioxide storage or utilization, and climatic conditions, which significantly affect process efficiency. This review highlights the necessity for continued research to overcome existing barriers and fully harness the potential of DAC technology. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Management: Economic, Social, and Ecological Aspects)

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14 pages, 892 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Energy of Finance in Refining of Medical Surge Capacity

by Oleksandr Melnychenko

Energies 2021, 14(1), 210; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14010210 - 3 Jan 2021

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 4174

Abstract

The availability of resources and their concentration in the place of greatest need, will not allow us to successfully overcome a medical surge without the energy required to activate these resources and activities, and increase their quantities if necessary, that is why the [...] Read more.

The availability of resources and their concentration in the place of greatest need, will not allow us to successfully overcome a medical surge without the energy required to activate these resources and activities, and increase their quantities if necessary, that is why the staff and management of healthcare institutions are forced to making ethical crisis decisions about who wins and who loses. This study highlights the versatility of the concept of ‘energy’ by attributing it to money or financial resources, which are highly essential in dealing with surges as the healthcare system adopts the appropriate capacity level. This study considers the means (space, staff, supplies, and specific resources) at the disposal of healthcare institutions for the control of diseases as economic resources to identify ways for enhancing their capacity, especially during periods of medical surges such as that caused by the coronavirus disease (COVID-19). The medical resources are dependent on ‘energy’, albeit not in the strictest sense of the term. The article, thus, points out that while limited resources are the norm in economic theory, a medical surge provides an opportunity to sufficiently extend the resources within the health system capacity through increased funding. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Management: Economic, Social, and Ecological Aspects)

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