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22 pages, 1453 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Economics of Sustainable Aviation Fuels: Market Trends and Policy Challenges in Selected EU Countries

by Laima Okunevičiūtė Neverauskienė, Eglė Sikorskaitė-Narkun and Manuela Tvaronavičienė

Sustainability 2026, 18(1), 127; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18010127 - 22 Dec 2025

Viewed by 392

Abstract

The aviation sector is one of the largest sources of greenhouse gas emissions, and the European Union (EU) is calling for a rapid transition to sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs). This study aims to assess market dynamics and regulatory challenges of sustainable aviation fuels [...] Read more.

The aviation sector is one of the largest sources of greenhouse gas emissions, and the European Union (EU) is calling for a rapid transition to sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs). This study aims to assess market dynamics and regulatory challenges of sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs) in the European Union, with emphasis on economic feasibility and the role of policy frameworks. Using econometric methods: Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) and Vector Autoregression (VAR) models, forecasts of SAF infrastructure development trajectories were produced, while regression analysis was applied to assess the relationship between national GDP and the scale of SAF deployment. The results revealed a statistically significant positive link between higher economic development and faster expansion of SAF infrastructure, highlighting the policy-driven nature of market dynamics. Germany and France demonstrate the greatest growth potential, while countries such as Italy and Denmark show slower progress. The findings confirm that clear regulatory frameworks and targeted economic incentives are essential to stimulate SAF uptake; however, additional investment and stronger policy harmonization across Member States are required to achieve large-scale commercialization and long-term sustainability. The empirical analysis utilizes data from 2015 to 2023 to estimate SAF infrastructure trajectories and policy effects, ensuring sufficient temporal coverage for robust econometric modeling and forecasting. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy and Environment: Policy, Economics and Modeling)

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22 pages, 1588 KB

Open AccessArticle

Do Artificial Intelligence Investments, Financial Development, and Energy Security Risks Promote Renewable Energy Transition? Evidence from the United States

by Chao He, Yulin Tu, Xing Li and Wanci Dai

Sustainability 2025, 17(24), 11067; https://doi.org/10.3390/su172411067 - 10 Dec 2025

Viewed by 348

Abstract

Despite intensified global efforts to accelerate the renewable energy (RE) transition, the influence of artificial intelligence (AI) and energy security risk (ESR) on RE adoption remains underexplored in the United States. This study examines the nonlinear and time-varying effects of AI, ESR, financial [...] Read more.

Despite intensified global efforts to accelerate the renewable energy (RE) transition, the influence of artificial intelligence (AI) and energy security risk (ESR) on RE adoption remains underexplored in the United States. This study examines the nonlinear and time-varying effects of AI, ESR, financial development (FD), and economic growth (GDP) on RE consumption from 1990Q1 to 2020Q4. Annual data were converted to quarterly frequency using the quadratic match sum method, and the Wavelet Cross Quantile Regression (WCQR) technique was employed to capture dynamic relationships across quantiles and time scales. The results show that AI and FD consistently stimulate RE adoption, while ESR shifts from a negative short-term influence to a positive long-term effect. Similarly, GDP initially reduces RE consumption but becomes supportive over longer horizons. This study offers new contributions by providing the first empirical evidence on the role of AI in shaping the U.S. renewable energy transition and by jointly examining technological, financial development, and energy security determinants within a unified framework. Policy implications suggest prioritizing investment in AI-based grid and storage systems, expanding green financing tools to lower capital barriers, and adopting long-term energy security strategies to sustain progress toward a low-carbon energy system. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy and Environment: Policy, Economics and Modeling)

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23 pages, 6046 KB

Open AccessArticle

Thermal Efficiency Enhancement of Solar Air Collector Integrated with an Electric Heater Using Experimental and Numerical Approaches

by Mohammed A. M. AL-Jaafari, Mehmet Özalp, Hasanain A. Abdul Wahhab, Cevat Özarpa and Hussein N. O. AL-abboodi

Sustainability 2025, 17(24), 10974; https://doi.org/10.3390/su172410974 - 8 Dec 2025

Viewed by 227

Abstract

Although numerous studies have investigated individual methods to improve the performance of solar air heaters (SAHs), such as flow obstruction barriers, porous media, nanofluids, and thermal energy storage units, the overall integration of these reinforcement strategies into a unified, sustainable system remains to [...] Read more.

Although numerous studies have investigated individual methods to improve the performance of solar air heaters (SAHs), such as flow obstruction barriers, porous media, nanofluids, and thermal energy storage units, the overall integration of these reinforcement strategies into a unified, sustainable system remains to be defined. The current study presents a hybrid solar air heating configuration that combines a solar air collector (SAC) with an electric air heater (EAH) powered by photovoltaic (PV) panels, aiming to stabilize outlet air temperature and enhance overall thermal efficiency. Experimental and numerical approaches were employed to evaluate the influence of barrier geometry (flat, trapezoidal, and V-groove) and airflow rate (53, 158, and 317 L/min) on system performance using three SAC models. Experimental results revealed that lower airflow rate promotes greater temperature rise (ΔT) due to longer air–surface contact, while V-groove barriers achieved the highest ΔT and collector efficiency among all configurations. At higher airflow rates, the absorbed energy factor Fc (τα) increased to approximately 0.73, whereas the heat loss factor FcU decreased, indicating reduced thermal losses and improved energy transfer. Model III demonstrated the most effective heat absorption, confirming its superior thermal design. The integrated SAC–EAH system exhibited improved overall efficiency, with the SAC functioning effectively as a preheating unit and the EAH sustaining thermal stability during variable solar conditions. Numerical results showed that the highest temperature difference occurs at the V-groove barriers at an air flow rate of 53 L/min. In contrast, the difference between inlet and outlet temperatures decreases across the remaining models, with reduced percentages of 11.8% and 12.7% for Model II and Model I, respectively. Numerical simulations ensured the experimental outcomes, showing close agreement with the temperature variation trends and validating the system’s enhanced thermal performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy and Environment: Policy, Economics and Modeling)

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28 pages, 2917 KB

Open AccessArticle

Modeling the Investment Evaluation Process in Biogas-Based Distributed Generation Projects for Sustainable Development

by Pedro Alberto Chaib de Sousa Bernardes, Giancarlo Aquila, André Luiz Medeiros, Edson de Oliveira Pamplona, Paulo Rotella Junior and Luiz Célio Souza Rocha

Sustainability 2025, 17(23), 10797; https://doi.org/10.3390/su172310797 - 2 Dec 2025

Viewed by 261

Abstract

Distributed generation (DG) is one of the types of generation with great potential in the world and fits into the incentive schemes used worldwide. In addition, biogas as a fuel for DG presents itself as an interesting option, both from an economic and [...] Read more.

Distributed generation (DG) is one of the types of generation with great potential in the world and fits into the incentive schemes used worldwide. In addition, biogas as a fuel for DG presents itself as an interesting option, both from an economic and a sustainability point of view. Thus, this article addresses the modeling of the investment evaluation process in biogas-based DG projects in Brazil, using the Business Process Model and Notation (BPMN) and Decision Model and Notation (DMN) techniques, intending to define a standard model. Although the study is applied to the Brazilian scenario, the proposed investment evaluation model can be applied to any scenario as long as the specificities of each location or country analyzed are considered. The results show that the model supports decisions on new investments in the sector and highlights the process sequence and main decision points for quality analysis. In addition, the model highlights the need to know the regulations and incentives for DG using renewable energy sources (RES) in the country, shows the available technologies, the process for producing electricity using biogas, the times for collecting operational data, estimating revenues, and investment evaluation methodologies, and promotes the growth of knowledge about RES. Finally, this approach supports sustainable development by using renewable resources efficiently, reducing waste, and lowering greenhouse gas emissions. It also helps investors and policymakers make decisions about low-carbon energy systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy and Environment: Policy, Economics and Modeling)

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28 pages, 7730 KB

Open AccessArticle

Low-Carbon Design Strategies for Transparent Building Envelopes in Hot-Summer–Cold-Winter Climate Zones—Experimental and Numerical Simulation Study Based on the High-Performance Sunroom Laboratory in Central-Southern Anhui

by Haowei Hu, Yukun Zhu, Mingzuo Cheng, Shuguang Zhu, Guotao Zhu and Jun Xu

Sustainability 2025, 17(23), 10544; https://doi.org/10.3390/su172310544 - 25 Nov 2025

Viewed by 366

Abstract

The widespread use of transparent building envelope structures satisfies people’s needs for architectural esthetics and daylighting. However, they also feature notable drawbacks such as high energy consumption, poor thermal insulation performance of traditional glass curtain walls, significant solar heat gain in summer and [...] Read more.

The widespread use of transparent building envelope structures satisfies people’s needs for architectural esthetics and daylighting. However, they also feature notable drawbacks such as high energy consumption, poor thermal insulation performance of traditional glass curtain walls, significant solar heat gain in summer and heat loss in winter, which lead to “cold in winter and hot in summer” indoors, reliance on high-power air conditioning, and energy consumption far exceeding that of opaque walls. Even when coated or insulated glazing is adopted, improper design can still fail to effectively reduce the overall heat transfer coefficient, placing higher demands on the daylighting performance and solar radiation control of transparent envelopes in existing buildings. Through experiments and numerical simulations, this study systematically analyzes the performance of different types of glass used in transparent building envelope structures and their impacts on building energy consumption. Based on the climatic characteristics of central-southern Anhui, measured data were compared between a Low E-glass sunroom and a conventional tempered glass sunroom. The results show that the solar radiation transmittance of the Low-e glass is only 45.31% of that of ordinary glass, the peak indoor temperature is reduced by 6–7 °C, and nighttime temperature fluctuations are smaller, verifying its excellent thermal insulation performance and thermal stability. To further investigate, the Ecotect software 2011 was used to simulate the daylighting performance of 12 types of glazing and the radiation transmittance under 19 conditions. The results indicate: triple-glazed vacuum composite silver-coated glass exhibits excellent shading performance suitable for summer; single-silver-coated glass has the best daylighting performance, and Triple-Silver coatings combined with high-transmission substrates can improve the daylight factor by 10.55%; argon-filled insulated glazing reduces radiation by 6.5% compared with ordinary IGUs, making it more suitable for the climate of central-southern Anhui. The study shows that optimization of transparent envelopes must be predicated on regional climate, combining experimentally validated glazing thermal parameters with simulation-based design optimization to provide theoretical support and technical references for glass selection and transparent envelope design in near-zero energy buildings in central-southern Anhui. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy and Environment: Policy, Economics and Modeling)

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17 pages, 321 KB

Open AccessArticle

Bridging the Green Infrastructure Gap: Determinants of Renewable Energy PPP Financing in Emerging and Developing Economies

by Justice Mundonde and Patricia Lindelwa Makoni

Sustainability 2025, 17(20), 9072; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17209072 - 13 Oct 2025

Viewed by 1274

Abstract

This study analyses the factors influencing renewable energy infrastructure public–private partnership (PPP) financing, using data from 28 countries covering the period from 1996 to 2024. A composite institutional quality index was constructed using Principal Component Analysis (PCA). The analysis employs a panel econometric [...] Read more.

This study analyses the factors influencing renewable energy infrastructure public–private partnership (PPP) financing, using data from 28 countries covering the period from 1996 to 2024. A composite institutional quality index was constructed using Principal Component Analysis (PCA). The analysis employs a panel econometric framework: the autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) model to capture short- and long-term dynamics. The results highlight the significance of the time dimension on renewable energy PPP financing. In the short term, none of the predictor variables are significant, reflecting the inherently long-term character of renewable energy PPP investments. However, in the long term, gross domestic product per capita, inflation dynamics, efficiency in energy transmission, and institutional quality are identified as key determinants of renewable energy investment. The findings suggest that strengthening sector-specific regulatory frameworks and improving various aspects of institutional quality as defined by the World Governance Indicators can be important to attract private capital in energy PPPs. These institutional reforms, complemented by growth-oriented macroeconomic policies, would contribute to making renewable energy markets more attractive while reducing exposure to macroeconomic and institutional risks. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy and Environment: Policy, Economics and Modeling)

27 pages, 2434 KB

Open AccessArticle

Navigating Headwinds in the Green Energy Transition: Explaining Variations in Local-Level Wind Energy Regulations

by Ian Njuguna, Ward Lyles, Uma Outka, Elise Harrington, Fayola Jacobs and Nadia Ahmad

Sustainability 2025, 17(19), 8934; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17198934 - 9 Oct 2025

Viewed by 1168

Abstract

Promoting economic prosperity, social justice, and ecological sustainability requires the rapid decarbonization of our global energy system in favor of renewable sources of energy. Recent news analysis estimates that 15% of counties across the US have banned wind turbines, solar fields, and other [...] Read more.

Promoting economic prosperity, social justice, and ecological sustainability requires the rapid decarbonization of our global energy system in favor of renewable sources of energy. Recent news analysis estimates that 15% of counties across the US have banned wind turbines, solar fields, and other green energy developments. We answer two overarching research questions: (1) How do regulations of wind facilities vary at the county level? And (2) what factors appear to explain the variation in local wind regulations? We created a GIS database of energy regulations for all 105 counties in Kansas, a top state for wind potential and a recent hotbed of local actions. We coupled descriptive statistics, mapping, and regression modeling to describe the variation in local policy approaches and identify factors driving the variation. We find counties using at least five different policy approaches to enable or block wind regulations. Factors driving variation include a combination of infrastructure capacity, demographic characteristics that shape local planning capacity, and the apparent reliance on large farming operations for local economic output but not partisan voting patterns or underlying wind capacity. Our findings provide vital insights for policymakers at the federal, state, and local levels, as well as providing a foundation for future scholarship on planning for a just energy future. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy and Environment: Policy, Economics and Modeling)

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17 pages, 755 KB

Open AccessArticle

Industrial Robotics, Resource Efficiency, Energy Transition, and Environmental Quality: Designing a Sustainable Development Goals Framework for G7 Countries in the Presence of Geopolitical Risk

by Yuhan Xia and Mahmood Ahmad

Sustainability 2025, 17(5), 1960; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17051960 - 25 Feb 2025

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2093

Abstract

In recent years, the integration of industrial robotics has emerged as a powerful tool in reshaping industries by enhancing production efficiency, reducing waste generation, and optimizing resource utilization. However, industrial robotics, particularly in manufacturing and production, require significant energy that can potentially impact [...] Read more.

In recent years, the integration of industrial robotics has emerged as a powerful tool in reshaping industries by enhancing production efficiency, reducing waste generation, and optimizing resource utilization. However, industrial robotics, particularly in manufacturing and production, require significant energy that can potentially impact on environmental quality. Despite the growing adoption of artificial intelligence (AI)-based industrial robotics, there is a paucity of literature on the impact of industrial robotics on the ecological footprint (EF), particularly in the context of advanced economies. In this context, this study aims to investigate the impact of industrial robotics, resource efficiency, energy transition, and geopolitical risk EF in G7 countries from 1993 to 2021. The study employed advanced econometric techniques, including Kernel-based Regularized Least Squares (KRLS) and Artificial Neural Network (ANN) machine learning methods. The results unveiled that industrial robotics significantly curtail environmental degradation by impeding the EF. Resource efficiency and energy transition posed a significant and negative impact on the EF. Geopolitical risks and economic growth exacerbate the EF. Based on the results, the study proposes important policy implications for achieving sustainable development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy and Environment: Policy, Economics and Modeling)

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22 pages, 5263 KB

Open AccessArticle

A Site-Specific Wind Energy Potential Analysis Based on Wind Probability Distributions: A Ciudad Juárez-México Case Study

by Carlos Adrián Hernández-Meléndez, Luis Alberto Rodríguez-Picón, Iván Juan Carlos Pérez-Olguín, Felipe Adrián Vázquez-Galvez, Jesús Israel Hernández-Hernández and Luis Carlos Méndez-González

Sustainability 2024, 16(21), 9486; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16219486 - 31 Oct 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2169

Abstract

Wind energy production has been a relevant topic of research for several years. Specifically, the estimation of wind energy potential has received important attention in different regions of the world. One of the main considerations for these estimations is based on the modeling [...] Read more.

Wind energy production has been a relevant topic of research for several years. Specifically, the estimation of wind energy potential has received important attention in different regions of the world. One of the main considerations for these estimations is based on the modeling of wind speed data based on probability density functions (PDF), given that once the best distribution for wind speed data is determined, the wind energy potential can be estimated. The objective of this paper is to investigate the wind speed and wind energy potential in Ciudad Juárez, México. To achieve this, three meteorological stations were installed in strategic open sites at a height of 10 meters within and on the edges of the city. Speed data were recorded for each meteorological station every ten minutes over a one-year period. The wind speed data were studied to define the best-fitting distribution, and different commercial wind turbines were considered to estimate the power curves for each location. With the characterized power curves, it was possible to estimate the potential energy production. In addition, wind shear was considered to estimate the energy production with wind turbines that have greater heights. The results show the importance of selecting the best distribution to estimate the wind energy potential of certain regions where measurements can be obtained from different locations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy and Environment: Policy, Economics and Modeling)

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16 pages, 2105 KB

Open AccessArticle

Quantifying the Impact of Coal Transition on GDP Growth through System Dynamics: The Case of the Region of Western Macedonia, Greece

by Apostolos Tranoulidis, Rafaella-Eleni P. Sotiropoulou, Kostas Bithas and Efthimios Tagaris

Sustainability 2024, 16(16), 7196; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16167196 - 22 Aug 2024

Viewed by 2204

Abstract

The transition from coal to more sustainable energy sources represents a critical shift for economies reliant on coal production. To investigate the intricate processes involved in such a transition, the use of powerful analytical tools is essential. This study assesses the impact of [...] Read more.

The transition from coal to more sustainable energy sources represents a critical shift for economies reliant on coal production. To investigate the intricate processes involved in such a transition, the use of powerful analytical tools is essential. This study assesses the impact of the delignification process on GDP growth over a 20-year horizon (2015–2035) in the Region of Western Macedonia, Greece, using the Vensim PLE Plus 9.0.1 software, a robust tool for system dynamics modeling. By developing a dynamic model that captures the key variables and feedback loops associated with coal transition, this research examines economic, social, and investment variables, emphasizing their causal relationships. The study integrates societal, economic, and educational impacts on production transition, addressing issues such as unemployment, financial support, and investments in human resources and R&D. Additionally, it considers the influence of climate change on GDP. The model highlights population dynamics, economic development, and education as critical factors. Scenarios explore the impact of increased funding on education, research, and financial aid efficiency, providing insights into enhancing GDP in decarbonizing regions. The study reveals that increased investment in education and human capital leads to slight improvements in local GDP, though the effects are not immediate. Enhanced efficiency in government and European spending significantly boosts local GDP by creating strong value chains and local economies of scale. It is found that the increase in financial support to the regions in transition is of the utmost importance and has a multiplicative nature, something that should encourage the European Union to increase its financial support tools. The model’s simulations align closely with historical GDP data, validating its accuracy. The contributions of the present work offer valuable insights to policymakers and stakeholders engaged in the transition processes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy and Environment: Policy, Economics and Modeling)

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26 pages, 3223 KB

Open AccessArticle

How Does Environmental Protection Tax Affect Urban Energy Consumption in China? New Insights from the Intensity Difference-in-Differences Model

by Xianpu Xu and Lingyun Huang

Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 4141; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16104141 - 15 May 2024

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2395

Abstract

Against the backdrop of accelerating environmental protection and resource conservation, it is of great significance to achieve energy conservation and sustainable growth. In this context, by collecting panel data from 284 cities in China from 2009 to 2021, this paper constructs an intensity [...] Read more.

Against the backdrop of accelerating environmental protection and resource conservation, it is of great significance to achieve energy conservation and sustainable growth. In this context, by collecting panel data from 284 cities in China from 2009 to 2021, this paper constructs an intensity difference-in-differences (I-DID) model, using the implementation of China’s environmental protection law in 2018 as an event shock, to explore the impact of environmental protection tax (EPT) on urban energy consumption. The results indicate that EPT significantly reduces urban energy consumption. After several robustness tests, the estimation results shown above still hold. The mechanism test reveals that EPT mainly reduces energy consumption by promoting urban industrial upgrading, economic openness, and technological innovation. In addition, the heterogeneity test shows that EPT has a greater impact on energy consumption in central and western cities, small and medium-sized cities, non-resource-based cities, and non-old industrial bases. Therefore, to fully improve the positive effect of EPT on urban energy consumption, we suggest increasing energy efficiency, promoting the green transformation of energy structures, enhancing the ability to open-up and innovate, and improving a differentiated regional EPT management system. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy and Environment: Policy, Economics and Modeling)

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21 pages, 970 KB

Open AccessArticle

Modeling the Nexus of Renewable and Non-Renewable Energy Consumption and Economic Progress in Southeastern Europe: A Panel Data Analysis

by Sanel Halilbegović, Zana Pekmez and Abdul Rehman

Sustainability 2023, 15(12), 9413; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15129413 - 12 Jun 2023

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2764

Abstract

As the fourth industrial revolution drives innovation and economic growth, the energy sector is increasingly recognized for its significant economic contribution. This research aims to investigate the relationship between economic growth and renewable and non-renewable energy consumption in nine southeastern European countries using [...] Read more.

As the fourth industrial revolution drives innovation and economic growth, the energy sector is increasingly recognized for its significant economic contribution. This research aims to investigate the relationship between economic growth and renewable and non-renewable energy consumption in nine southeastern European countries using panel estimation techniques and causal inference. This research employs a unique approach to modeling the energy–growth nexus, incorporating interaction terms to better understand the impact of renewable energy on real GDP growth. The findings are a valuable addendum to the current body of research on the effects of renewable energy consumption on economic growth, and the results contribute to narrowing the empirical research gap in the econometrical field of panel data estimation and endogeneity. This study uses the fully modified OLS (FMOLS) technique for heterogeneous panels to estimate coefficients, while the error correction model (ECM) is used to estimate the cointegration vector between energy variables and GDP. The non-causality test by Dumitrescu and Hurlin (2012) evaluates the causation between energy variables and economic output. Empirical findings indicate that both renewable and non-renewable energy consumption positively affect economic growth. The outcomes of this study hold significant policy ramifications in terms of prioritizing reformation and investment towards specific sectors to foster capital infusion into renewable energy and energy efficiency projects and initiatives, consequently advancing sustainable economic growth. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy and Environment: Policy, Economics and Modeling)

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23 pages, 1516 KB

Open AccessArticle

Environmental Regulations and Chinese Energy Sustainability: Mediating Role of Green Technology Innovations in Chinese Provinces

by Lijuan Su, Yating Zheng, Fayyaz Ahmad, Ilhan Ozturk, Yatao Wang, Tian Tian and Abdul Rehman

Sustainability 2023, 15(11), 8950; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15118950 - 1 Jun 2023

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2371

Abstract

The stable growth of an economy is based on the coordination between environmental protection and economic development. Environmental regulation may affect energy efficiency because of its function of correcting energy consumption externalities. This paper uses the SBM model and Tobit model to explore [...] Read more.

The stable growth of an economy is based on the coordination between environmental protection and economic development. Environmental regulation may affect energy efficiency because of its function of correcting energy consumption externalities. This paper uses the SBM model and Tobit model to explore the impact on and pathways of environmental regulations of energy efficiency in 30 provincial-level administrative regions in China and explains temporal and regional heterogeneity. The findings suggested that the environmental regulation in all provinces is continuously strengthened and the energy efficiency in eastern China is relatively higher. There is a positive effect of environmental regulation on energy efficiency and there is a temporal and spatial heterogeneity. Environmental regulation affects energy efficiency through green technology innovation, industrial structure upgrading, energy structure transformation and other transmission paths, and its influence mechanism on energy efficiency also has regional heterogeneity. The policy suggestions are: further enhance the intensity of environmental regulation, refine supporting safeguards and implement differentiated environmental regulation measures. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy and Environment: Policy, Economics and Modeling)

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11 pages, 290 KB

Open AccessArticle

Role of Renewable Energy and Financial Innovation in Environmental Protection: Empirical Evidence from UAE and Saudi Arabia

by Samira Ben Belgacem, Ghousia Khatoon and Abad Alzuman

Sustainability 2023, 15(11), 8684; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15118684 - 27 May 2023

Cited by 26 | Viewed by 5538

Abstract

In modern times, many countries are committed to achieving climate neutrality and environmental sustainability. Without financial innovation and green financing, switching to clean energy, reducing carbon emissions, and mitigating climate change will be impossible. The main objective of this study is to obtain [...] Read more.

In modern times, many countries are committed to achieving climate neutrality and environmental sustainability. Without financial innovation and green financing, switching to clean energy, reducing carbon emissions, and mitigating climate change will be impossible. The main objective of this study is to obtain zero carbon to protect the environment. To analyze sustainable development pathways, this research examines the impact of renewable energy and financial innovation on the environmental protection of the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia from 2010 to 2021. The use of renewable energy sources, pollution, and climate change are all significant elements. Innovation can help slow the rate of global warming by lowering carbon emissions and expanding the usage of renewable energy sources. Green financing and innovation are powerful tools for environmental safety and deterioration. The acceleration of renewable energy growth is the primary driver of sustainable development. Moreover, green financing balances the innovation–energy–environment–climate nexus. Similarly, green finance amplifies the positive effects of innovation on using renewable energy. This study provides valuable insights into achieving zero carbon by producing renewable energy sources and modern green technology. Further research is possible by adding more dimensions of renewable energy sources. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy and Environment: Policy, Economics and Modeling)

23 pages, 4866 KB

Open AccessArticle

An Appraisal on China’s Feed-In Tariff Policies for PV and Wind Power: Implementation Effects and Optimization

by Xiaohua Song, Yamin Huang, Yulin Zhang, Wen Zhang and Zeqi Ge

Sustainability 2023, 15(6), 5137; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15065137 - 14 Mar 2023

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 7604

Abstract

China’s FIT policies for PV and wind power are leading policies to promote the low-carbon transformation of the power system. We design composite models based on real options and the cost–benefit analysis, using the Evaluation Model of Implementation Effects and the Optimization Model [...] Read more.

China’s FIT policies for PV and wind power are leading policies to promote the low-carbon transformation of the power system. We design composite models based on real options and the cost–benefit analysis, using the Evaluation Model of Implementation Effects and the Optimization Model for Policy Design to evaluate the design and implementation effects of FIT policies for PV and wind power. The results of the Evaluation Model of Implementation Effects are the following: (1) The economic and environmental competitiveness of developing PV and wind power projects under the parity policy raised significantly (2.524 to 3.136 times increase). (2) The last two-phase FIT policies fail to encourage power generation enterprises to carry out R&D activities, and supporting policies can be considered to offer incentives for R&D activities in upstream industries of power generation. (3) The substitution effect of green certificates on government subsidies is limited, and new market compensation mechanisms such as CCER can be introduced nationwide. The results of the Optimization Model for Policy Design are the following: (1) There is still space for a 10.306% to 22.981% reduction in feed-in tariffs during the parity policy. (2) Due to the risk of the mismatch in the cost attribute and uneven investment across regions, the parity policy is not suitable for long-term implementation, so the feed-in tariffs for PV and wind power should progressively be disconnected from feed-in tariffs for thermal power. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy and Environment: Policy, Economics and Modeling)

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17 pages, 688 KB

Open AccessArticle

Environmental Impact of ICT on Disaggregated Energy Consumption in China: A Threshold Regression Analysis

by Zakia Batool, Sajjad Ali and Abdul Rehman

Sustainability 2022, 14(23), 15600; https://doi.org/10.3390/su142315600 - 23 Nov 2022

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 4014

Abstract

Due to resource scarcity, high energy demand, and environmental degradation, China’s rapid economic growth over the past three decades has been accompanied by certain serious issues that require quick attention. The excessive use of fossil fuels worsens the ecosystem and raises the level [...] Read more.

Due to resource scarcity, high energy demand, and environmental degradation, China’s rapid economic growth over the past three decades has been accompanied by certain serious issues that require quick attention. The excessive use of fossil fuels worsens the ecosystem and raises the level of carbon in the atmosphere. However, the use of ICT has affected the behavior of energy use in various sectors differently. Although ICT-induced activities, on one hand, may affect the environment positively by reducing energy consumption, on the other hand, they may affect the environment adversely by causing an energy rebound effect. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the nonlinear impact of ICT on the environmental effects of energy consumption in the residential, transport, and industrial sectors in China. The study used threshold regression for empirical analysis by employing data for the period from 1990 to 2021. ICT is used as a threshold variable, while energy consumption in the residential, industrial, and transport sectors is used as a regime-dependent variable. Based on the findings, we deduce that the use of ICT asymmetrically affects sectoral energy consumption and the empirical result varies across sectors. Based on the results, we recommend that the possibility of rebound effects should be given more attention in the development of policies regarding the digitalization of the sectors. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy and Environment: Policy, Economics and Modeling)

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20 pages, 295 KB

Open AccessArticle

Dynamic Effects and Regional Differences of Industrialization and Urbanization on China’s Energy Intensity under the Background of “Dual Carbon”

by Qingran Guo, Cuicui Ding, Tingting Guo and Shuaitao Liu

Sustainability 2022, 14(16), 9948; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14169948 - 11 Aug 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2062

Abstract

Based on China’s provincial panel data during 2012–2019, this paper performs an empirical analysis of the dynamic effect and regional difference of industrialization and urbanization on the energy intensity in China by separating the energy intensity into three levels including low, middle and [...] Read more.

Based on China’s provincial panel data during 2012–2019, this paper performs an empirical analysis of the dynamic effect and regional difference of industrialization and urbanization on the energy intensity in China by separating the energy intensity into three levels including low, middle and high and using the dynamic panel data with system GMM estimation. The results show that the energy intensity will increase by 0.4298% for every 1% increase in the industrialization level on the premise of keeping other variables unchanged. For every 1% increase in the urbanization level, the energy intensity will increase by 0.5674% on average. For every 1% increase in energy intensity in the previous period, the energy intensity in that year will increase by 0.7968% on average. Moreover, there are regional differences in the effects of industrialization and urbanization on the energy intensity in areas with different energy intensities. In addition, all of the factors including the development level of the regional economy, energy price, and technological innovation have different effects on the energy intensity in China. Meanwhile, there exist the rebound effects of the technological innovation in China, and the energy price has an induced effect on the technological innovation. Undoubtedly, industrialization and urbanization jointly promote the increase in energy intensity. At the same time, the level of economic development, energy prices and technological innovation are also reasons for the differences in the energy intensity among regions. Therefore, in order to effectively reduce energy intensity while carrying out technological innovation, promoting high-quality development and increasing income, it is necessary to improve the internal quality of industrialization and urbanization, and to promote new resource-saving and environmentally friendly methods of industrialization and urbanization. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy and Environment: Policy, Economics and Modeling)

16 pages, 840 KB

Open AccessArticle

Electrical Energy Dilemma and CO₂ Emission in Pakistan: Decomposing the Positive and Negative Shocks by Using an Asymmetric Technique

by Abdul Rehman, Laura Mariana Cismas and Maria Daniela Otil

Sustainability 2022, 14(14), 8957; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14148957 - 21 Jul 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2887

Abstract

The key aim of the current analysis was to examine the impact of electricity production from various sources (oil, nuclear, natural gas and coal) on CO₂ emission in Pakistan by utilizing the annual data series varies from 1975–2020. The study employed the [...] Read more.

The key aim of the current analysis was to examine the impact of electricity production from various sources (oil, nuclear, natural gas and coal) on CO₂ emission in Pakistan by utilizing the annual data series varies from 1975–2020. The study employed the two unit root tests for the purpose of stationarity, while an asymmetric Nonlinear Autoregressive Distributed Lag (NARDL) technique was applied to expose the influence of electrical energy on CO₂ emission via long-run and short-run dynamics. Findings show that via long-run and short-run the variable electricity production from oil and coal sources has a positive impact on CO₂ emission in Pakistan via positive and negative shocks. Electricity production from nuclear sources exposed the adverse impact on CO₂ emissions. Similarly, electricity production from natural gas demonstrates the positive and adversative linkage with CO₂ emission through positive and negative shocks. There is no doubt that Pakistan is still dealing with an electricity deficit because of poor energy generation in the country, but this has contributed to an increase in CO₂ emissions. To avoid additional environmental damage, the government should pursue new and major CO₂ emission reduction measures. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy and Environment: Policy, Economics and Modeling)

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16 pages, 1252 KB

Open AccessArticle

Examining the Relationship between Rural and Urban Populations’ Access to Electricity and Economic Growth: A New Evidence

by Ioana Anda Milin, Mariana Claudia Mungiu Pupazan, Abdul Rehman, Irina Elena Chirtoc and Nicolae Ecobici

Sustainability 2022, 14(13), 8125; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14138125 - 3 Jul 2022

Cited by 24 | Viewed by 3589

Abstract

The electric power industry has a dominant contribution to economic development in China, and growth in the industry needs to help the economy grow, protect the environment, and give people access to electricity. The current study’s main goal is to assess the rural [...] Read more.

The electric power industry has a dominant contribution to economic development in China, and growth in the industry needs to help the economy grow, protect the environment, and give people access to electricity. The current study’s main goal is to assess the rural and urban populations’ access to electricity, energy use, and economic development in China using yearly data ranging from 1995 to 2017. We applied two unit root tests to check the variables’ stationarity and a symmetric autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) approach to discover the variable links using long-run and short-run estimates. The Granger causality test was also used in this study under a vector error correction model (VECM) to assess the variables’ unidirectional connection. Short-run results demonstrate that total population access to electricity, urban population access to electricity, and energy use have positive links with economic development, with probability values of (0.004), (0.000), and (0.007), respectively. Similarly, long-run evidence shows that variables such as total population access to electricity, urban population access to electricity, and energy use have a positive relationship with economic growth, with p-values of (0.005), (0.000), and (0.047), respectively. Unfortunately, throughout the investigation, the variable electricity availability to the rural population demonstrated an adverse relationship with China’s economic growth. Furthermore, the Granger causality test results under the vector error correction model (VECM) show that all variables have unidirectional links. China’s implementation of new plans regarding energy consumption has a significant impact on both future energy supply and the country’s ability to stay sustainable. It will be able to maintain the stability of its energy levels as long as it sticks to suitable choices and policy options. Undoubtedly, China is a huge user of energy and an emitter of CO₂ emissions; therefore, possible conservative strategies and policies are required from the Chinese government to use clean energy sources to fulfill its energy demand. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy and Environment: Policy, Economics and Modeling)

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40 pages, 9642 KB

Open AccessReview

Implementation of Renewable Energy from Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Facilities in Peru: A Promising Sustainable Future

by Carlos Cacciuttolo, Ximena Guardia and Eunice Villicaña

Sustainability 2024, 16(11), 4388; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16114388 - 22 May 2024

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 12478

Abstract

In the last two decades, Peru has experienced a process of transformation in the sources of its energy matrix, increasing the participation of clean energy such as solar photovoltaic (PV), on-shore wind, biomass, and small hydro. However, hydropower and natural gas remain the [...] Read more.

In the last two decades, Peru has experienced a process of transformation in the sources of its energy matrix, increasing the participation of clean energy such as solar photovoltaic (PV), on-shore wind, biomass, and small hydro. However, hydropower and natural gas remain the main sources of electricity, whereas off-shore wind, biogas, waves, tidal, and geothermal sources are currently underdeveloped. This article presents the enormous potential of Peru for the generation of electrical energy from a solar source equivalent to 25 GW, as it has in one of the areas of the world with the highest solar radiation throughout the year. In addition, this article presents the main advantages, benefits, and considerations of the implementation of solar photovoltaic technology, with emphasis on (i) the potential of solar energy, showing the available potential and an installed capacity by the year 2024 equivalent to 398 MW, (ii) current solar energy sources, characterizing existing industrial solar photovoltaic (PV) energy plants, and (iii) future solar energy facilities projections, stating the portfolio of solar renewable energy plant projects to be implemented in the future considering an installed capacity of 7.2 GW by 2028. Additionally, lessons learned, challenges, and directions for the future development of solar energy in the country are presented. Finally, the article concludes that if Peru takes advantage of solar potential by considering a sustainable future perspective and implementing strategic land-use planning, the southern region will be transformed into a world-class territory for renewable energy development considering the hybridization of concentrated solar power (CSP) systems with solar photovoltaic (PV) systems and solar energy storage systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy and Environment: Policy, Economics and Modeling)

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