Search Results (566)

As a key enabling technology for energy transition, the smart grid is propelling the global power system to evolve toward greater efficiency, reliability, and sustainability. Based on the three-dimensional analysis framework of “technology–policy–application”, this study systematically sorts out the technical architecture, regional development mode, and typical application scenarios of the smart grid, revealing the multi-dimensional challenges that it faces. By using the methods of literature review, cross-national case comparison, and technology–policy collaborative analysis, the differentiated paths of China, the United States, and Europe in the development of smart grids are compared, aiming to promote the integration and development of smart grid technologies. From a technical perspective, this paper proposes a collaborative framework comprising the perception layer, network layer, and decision-making layer. Additionally, it analyzes the integration pathways of critical technologies, including sensors, communication protocols, and artificial intelligence. At the policy level, by comparing the differentiated characteristics in policy orientation and market mechanisms among China, the United States, and Europe, the complementarity between government-led and market-driven approaches is pointed out. At the application level, this study validates the practical value of smart grids in optimizing energy management, enhancing power supply reliability, and promoting renewable energy consumption through case analyses in urban smart energy systems, rural electrification, and industrial sectors. Further research indicates that insufficient technical standardization, data security risks, and the lack of policy coordination are the core bottlenecks restricting the large-scale development of smart grids. This paper proposes that a new type of intelligent and resilient power system needs to be constructed through technological innovation, policy coordination, and international cooperation, providing theoretical references and practical paths for energy transition. Full article

Energy-intensive industries (EIIs) face mounting pressure to reduce greenhouse gas emissions while maintaining international competitiveness—a balance that is central to achieving the EU’s 2030 and 2050 climate objectives. In this context, energy management (EM) emerges as a strategic instrument to decouple industrial growth from fossil energy consumption. This study proposes a redefinition of EM to support carbon-neutral supply chains within the European Union’s EIIs, addressing critical limitations of conventional EM frameworks under increasingly stringent carbon regulations. Using a modified systematic literature review based on PRISMA methodology, complemented by expert insights from EU Member States, this research identifies structural gaps in current EM practices and highlights opportunities for integrating sustainable innovations across the whole industrial value chain. The proposed EM concept is validated through an analysis of 24 EM definitions, over 170 scientific publications, and over 80 EU legal and strategic documents. The framework incorporates advanced digital technologies—including artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and big data analytics—to enable real-time optimisation, predictive control, and greater system adaptability. Going beyond traditional energy efficiency, the redefined EM encompasses the entire energy lifecycle, including use, transformation, storage, and generation. It also incorporates social dimensions, such as corporate social responsibility (CSR) and stakeholder engagement, to cultivate a culture of environmental stewardship within EIIs. This holistic approach provides a strategic management tool for optimising energy use, reducing emissions, and strengthening resilience to regulatory, environmental, and market pressures, thereby promoting more sustainable, inclusive, and transparent supply chain operations. Full article

This article presents the development, integration, and experimental validation of a modular microgrid for sustainable hydrogen production, addressing global electricity demand and environmental challenges. The system was designed for initial validation in a thermoelectric power plant environment, with scalability to other applications. Centered on a six-compartment skid, it integrates photovoltaic generation, battery storage, and a liquefied petroleum gas generator to emulate typical cogeneration conditions, together with a high-purity proton exchange membrane electrolyzer. A supervisory control module ensures real-time monitoring and energy flow management, following international safety standards. The study also explores the incorporation of blockchain technology to certify the renewable origin of hydrogen, enhancing traceability and transparency in the green hydrogen market. The experimental results confirm the system’s technical feasibility, demonstrating stable hydrogen production, efficient energy management, and islanded-mode operation with preserved grid stability. These findings highlight the strategic role of hydrogen as an energy vector in the transition to a cleaner energy matrix and support the proposed architecture as a replicable model for industrial facilities seeking to combine hydrogen production with advanced microgrid technologies. Future work will address large-scale validation and performance optimization, including advanced energy management algorithms to ensure economic viability and sustainability in diverse industrial contexts. Full article

Against the backdrop of the profound restructuring in global climate governance, China’s energy management system is undergoing a comprehensive transition from dual energy consumption control to dual carbon emissions control. This policy shift fundamentally alters the underlying logic of energy-focused regulation and inevitably impacts the economy–energy–environment (3E) system. This study innovatively constructs a “Triangular Trinity” theoretical framework integrating internal, intermediate, and external triangular couplings, as well as providing a granular analysis of their transmission relationships and feedback mechanisms. Using Guangdong Province as a case study, this study takes the dual control emissions policy within the external triangle as an entry point to research the restructuring logic of dual carbon emissions control for the coupling coordination mechanisms of the 3E system. The key findings are as follows: (1) Policy efficacy evolution: During 2005–2016, dual energy consumption control significantly improved energy conservation and emissions reduction, elevating Guangdong’s 3E coupling coordination. Post 2017, however, its singular focus on total energy consumption revealed limitations, causing a decline in 3E coordination. Dual carbon emissions control demonstrably enhances 3E systemic synergy. (2) Decoupling dynamics: Dual carbon emissions control accelerates economic–carbon emission decoupling, while slowing economic–energy consumption decoupling. This created an elasticity space of 5.092 million tons of standard coal equivalent (sce) and reduced carbon emissions by 26.43 million tons, enabling high-quality economic development. (3) Mechanism reconstruction: By leveraging external triangular elements (energy-saving technologies and market mechanisms) to act on the energy subsystem, dual carbon emissions control leads to optimal solutions to the “Energy Trilemma”. This drives the systematic restructuring of the sustainability triangle, achieving high-order 3E coupling coordination. The Triangular Trinity framework constructed by us in the paper is an innovative attempt in relation to the theory of energy transition, providing a referenceable methodology for resolving the contradictions of the 3E system. The research results can provide theoretical support and practical reference for the low-carbon energy transition of provinces and cities with similar energy structures. Full article

Electric passenger vehicles are set to dominate the European car market, driven by EU climate policies and the 2035 ban on internal combustion engine production. This study assesses the sustainability of this transition, focusing on global warming potential and Critical Raw Material (CRM) extraction throughout its life cycle. The intensive use of CRMs raises environmental, economic, social, and geopolitical concerns. These materials are scarce and are concentrated in a few politically sensitive regions, leaving the EU highly dependent on external suppliers. The extraction, transport, and refining of CRMs and battery production are high-emission processes that contribute to climate change and pose risks to ecosystems and human health. A Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) was conducted, using OpenLCA software and the Ecoinvent 3.10 database, comparing a Peugeot 308 in its diesel and electric versions. This study adopts a cradle-to-grave approach, analyzing three phases: production, utilization, and end-of-life treatment. Key indicators included Global Warming Potential (GWP100) and Abiotic Resource Depletion Potential (ADP) to assess CO₂ emissions and mineral resource consumption. Technological advancements could mitigate mineral depletion concerns. Li-ion battery recycling is still underdeveloped, but has high recovery potential, with the sector expected to expand significantly. Moreover, repurposing used Li-ion batteries for stationary energy storage in renewable energy systems can extend their lifespan by over a decade, decreasing the demand for new batteries. Such innovations underscore the potential for a more sustainable electric vehicle industry. Full article

The transition to passenger car electrification is a crucial step in China’s strategic efforts to achieve carbon peak and carbon neutrality. However, previous research has not considered the variances in vehicle models. Hence, this study aims to fill this gap by comparing the carbon emission reduction and economic feasibility of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) in the Chinese market, taking into account different powertrains, vehicle segments, classes, and driving ranges. Next, the study identifies the most cost-effective BEV within each market segment, employing life-cycle assessment and life cycle cost analysis methods. Moreover, at different levels of technological development, we construct three low-carbon measures, including electricity decarbonization (ED), energy efficiency improvement (EEI), and vehicle lightweight (LW), to quantify the emission mitigation potentials from different carbon reduction pathways. The findings indicate that BEVs achieve an average carbon reduction of about 31.85% compared to internal combustion engine vehicles (ICEVs), demonstrating a significant advantage in carbon reduction. However, BEVs are not economically competitive. The total life cycle cost of BEVs is 1.04–1.68 times higher than that of ICEVs, with infrastructure costs accounting for 18.8–57.8% of the vehicle’ s life cycle costs. In terms of cost-effectiveness, different models yield different results, with sedans generally outperforming sport utility vehicles (SUVs). Among sedans, both A-class and B-class sedans have already reached a point of cost-effectiveness, with the BEV400 emerging as the optimal choice. In low-carbon emission reduction scenarios, BEVs could achieve carbon reduction potentials of up to 45.3%, 14.9%, and 9.0% in the ED, EEI, and LW scenarios, respectively. Thus, electricity decarbonization exhibits the highest potential for mitigating carbon emissions, followed by energy efficiency improvement and vehicle lightweight. There are obvious differences in the stages of impact among different measures. The ED measure primarily impacts the waste treatment process (WTP) stage, followed by the vehicle cycle, while the EEI measure only affects the WTP stage. The LW measure has a complex impact on emission reductions, as the carbon reductions achieved in the WTP stage are partially offset by the increased carbon emissions in the vehicle cycle. Full article

This article proposes recognizing innovation as the European Union’s “fifth freedom”, alongside the free movement of goods, services, capital, and people, with the aim of embedding it into renewable energy legislation. Focusing on renewable energy storage—a critical but overlooked component of decarbonization—it identifies structural barriers in EU cleantech innovation, including regulatory fragmentation, slow financing, and weak industrial coordination. To address these, this article introduces the Risk–Resilience–Reward (RRR) framework, a strategic tool for more anticipatory policymaking. It outlines how the proposed Clean Energy Delivery Agency and Clean Energy Deployment Fund could operationalize the RRR framework to accelerate storage deployment and strengthen EU competitiveness. Embedding purpose-led principles in energy policy, this article positions storage as the “unsung hero of decarbonization” and offers takeaways for advancing a just, sustainable EU economy. Full article

Globalization and the spread of technological innovations have made world markets and economies increasingly unified and conditioned by international trade, not only for sales markets but above all for the supply of raw materials necessary for the functioning of the production complex of each country. Alongside oil and gold, the main commodities traded include industrial metals, such as aluminum and copper, mineral products such as gas, electrical and electronic components, agricultural products, and precious metals. The conflict between Russia and Ukraine tested the unification of markets, given that these are countries with notable raw materials and are strongly dedicated to exports. This suggests that commodity prices were able to influence the stock markets, especially in the countries most closely linked to the two belligerents in terms of import-export. Given the importance of industrial metals in this period of energy transition, the aim of our study is to analyze whether Industrial Metals volatility affects G7 stock markets. To this end, the BEKK-GARCH model is used. The sample period spans from 3 January 2018 to 17 September 2024. The results show that lagged shocks and volatility significantly and positively influence the current conditional volatility of commodity and stock returns during all periods. In fact, past shocks inversely influence the current volatility of stock indices in periods when external events disrupt financial markets. The results show a non-linear and positive impact of commodity volatility on the implied volatility of the stock markets. The findings suggest that the war significantly affected stock prices and exacerbated volatility, so investors should diversify their portfolios to maximize returns and reduce risk differently in times of crisis, and a lack of diversification of raw materials is a risky factor for investors. Full article

This study aims to evaluate the feasibility of replacing internal combustion vehicles (ICVs) with homologated electric vehicles (EVs) within Ecuador’s electricity supply companies, using a structured methodology to ensure operational efficacy and emissions reduction. This was carried out by considering a methodology that allows standardized decision criteria for replacement through determining specific requirements, contrasting technical characteristics, and estimating emissions reduction without compromising the development of transportation daily activities within the companies. The results showed that there are three main categories of combustion-powered vehicles that have electric counterparts, for they are suitable to be replaced under certain operation parameters with a significant reduction in the annual CO₂ emissions of around 85%. However, considering market availability and technical constraints, a realistic migration scenario suggests 56% reduction in CO₂ emissions. Electric mobility presents a compelling opportunity for decarbonization; achieving true sustainability will require the continued diversification and decarbonization of the national electricity supply, given that 90% of electricity production is based on renewable energy. Full article

During the 28th Conference of the Parties (COP28), organized under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and hosted by the United Arab Emirates, member nations reached a global agreement to begin transitioning away from fossil fuel dependence, forcing the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries to balance their commitment to a green transition with the need to secure short-term energy supplies. This study highlights the challenges facing the GCC’s efforts to expand renewable energy, even as the region continues to have a significant influence over international energy markets. This study utilizes dynamic panel estimation over the period 2003 to 2022, focusing on the core pillars of the Energy Transition Index to analyze the evolving renewable energy use in the GCC. The results present a clear and optimistic perspective on the region’s renewable energy prospects. Despite the continued dependence on fossil fuels, the findings indicate that, if effectively managed, oil and gas revenues can serve as strategic instruments to support the transition toward cleaner energy sources. These insights offer policymakers robust guidance for long-term energy planning and highlight the critical importance of international collaboration in advancing the GCC’s sustainable energy transition. Full article

Droplet microfluidics has emerged as a transformative technology that can substantially increase the throughput of antibody “hit” discovery. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the recent advances in this dynamic field, focusing primarily on the technological and methodological innovations that have enhanced the antibody discovery process. This investigation starts with the fundamental principles of droplet microfluidics, emphasizing its unique capabilities for precisely controlling and manipulating picoliter-volume droplets. This discussion extends to various assay types employed in droplet microfluidics, including binding assays, functional assays, Förster Resonance Energy Transfer (FRET) assays, internalization assays, and neutralization assays, each offering distinct advantages for antibody screening and characterization. A critical examination of methods to improve droplet encapsulation is presented, besides addressing challenges such as reducing the leakage of small molecules from droplets and explaining what a “hit” droplet looks like. Furthermore, we assess design considerations essential for implementing high-throughput fluorescence-activated droplet sorting (FADS) workstations and emphasize the need for automation. This review also delves into the evolving commercial landscape, identifying key market players and emerging industry trends. This review paper aims to catalyze further research and innovation, ultimately advancing the field towards more efficient and robust solutions for antibody identification and development. Full article

According to the International Institute of Refrigeration (IIR), 20% of worldwide electricity consumption is for refrigeration, with domestic refrigeration appliances comprising a fifth of this demand. As the uptake of renewable energy sources for on-grid and isolated electricity supply increases, the need for mechanisms to match demand and supply better and increase power system flexibility has led to enhanced attention on demand-side management (DSM) practices to boost technology, infrastructure, and market efficiencies. Refrigeration requirements will continue to rise with development and climate change. In this work, particle swarm optimization (PSO) is used to evaluate energy saving and load factor improvement possibilities for refrigeration devices at a site in Kenya, using a combination of DSM load shifting and strategic conservation, and based on appliance temperature evolution measurements. Refrigeration energy savings of up to 18% are obtained, and the load factor is reduced. Modeling is done for a hybrid system with grid, solar PV, and battery, showing a marginal increase in solar energy supply to the load relative to the no DSM case, while the grid portion of the load supply reduces by almost 25% for DSM relative to No DSM. Full article

The purpose of this research is to investigate the possibilities of electricity consumption-associated cost reduction in buildings owned by a medium-sized logistics company in Latvia (A_LV), which is a part of the larger international business ecosystem (A). The company is not using all of its facilities for its own business needs, some of them are rented out, and therefore the possibility of impacting electricity consumption in rented out buildings is limited. During the research, mixed-type approaches combining qualitative and quantitative research methods and data analysis were employed, where the quantitative methods helped to analyze the company’s electricity consumption and cost changes in different time periods, while the qualitative methods were used in a literature review. As primary data sources, A_LV’s internal electricity consumption reports and invoices for electricity payments were used, along with publicly available data on electricity consumption in Latvia and wholesale market price fluctuations. Although A_LV has numerous areas of electricity consumption optimization, this research is limited to few of them—lighting system optimization, energy management and automation applications, forklift charging regime adjustments, and choice of electricity retailer and tariff plan. Full article

Hybrid Propellant Rocket Motors (HPRMs) have been advancing rapidly in recent years. These improvements are finally increasing their competitiveness in the global launch-vehicle market. However, some topics, such as the pre-combustion chamber design, still require more in-depth studies. Few studies have examined this subject. This work proposes a low-computational-cost algorithm that calculates the minimum pre-combustion chamber length, with a vaporization and feed-system coupled instability model. This type of analysis is a key tool for minimizing a vehicle’s size, weight, losses, and costs. Additionally, coupling with internal ballistics codes can be implemented. Furthermore, the results were compared with real HPRMs to verify the algorithm’s reliability. The shortened pre-chamber architecture trimmed the inert mass and reduced the feed-system pressure requirement, boosting overall propulsive energy efficiency by $\approx 8\%$ relative to conventional L*-based designs. These gains can lower stored-gas enthalpy and reduce life-cycle CO and CO₂-equivalent emissions, strengthening the case for lighter and more sustainable access-to-space technologies. Full article

The rapid expansion of shale gas development has revolutionized global energy markets, yet it has also introduced substantial environmental challenges, particularly concerning groundwater resources. This comprehensive review systematically examines the multifaceted impacts of shale gas extraction on groundwater, with a focus on contamination mechanisms, pollutant sources, and mitigation strategies. The study identifies key operational stages—exploration, drilling, hydraulic fracturing, and flowback—as potential sources of groundwater contamination. Inorganic pollutants, including heavy metals and radionuclides, as well as organic compounds such as hydrocarbons and chemical additives, are identified as primary contaminants. The review critically evaluates current wastewater treatment technologies, including reinjection, internal reuse, and advanced desalination methods, highlighting their efficacy and limitations. Additionally, the study proposes a refined environmental management framework that integrates wellbore integrity optimization, enhanced shale gas wastewater treatment, and stringent monitoring protocols. The adoption of clean fracturing technologies and renewable energy applications is recommended to minimize environmental footprints. By establishing comprehensive baseline data and robust pollution monitoring systems, this research provides a scientific foundation for sustainable shale gas development, ensuring the protection of groundwater resources. This review emphasizes the imperative of balancing energy security with environmental sustainability, offering actionable insights for policymakers, industry stakeholders, and environmental scientists. Full article