Advances in Green Energy and Energy Derivatives

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Topic Information

Dear Colleagues,

Energy is the vital gear of global energy and life sustainability. The development of renewable energy derivatives, the key concept of biorefinery, is an essential feature of modern economies focusing on the decarbonization of production practices. As such, renewable energy is a highly prioritized research sphere with the prime focus of investment in the current era. Following the successful development of biofuel technologies, the development of high-energy biomolecules and bio-derivatives with extended applications has been a key focus. In addition, progress in energy technologies has emerged with the development of organic materials as sustainable, biodegradable, and readily available materials for energy supply and energy storage, replacing their fossil and inorganic counterparts. In line with all of these developments, research and innovation in these fields are expanding at a rapid rate, and we, as members of the journal Energies, are committed to facilitating the communication of high-quality studies in this field. This topic focuses on the latest fundamentals and applied innovations, both experimental and computational, in the field of renewable energy and energy derivatives, covering the synthesis, purification, kinetics, and applications in various fields. The topic includes, but is not limited to, the following:

• Production of biofuels, syngas, and biohydrogen;
• Production of biochemicals, biomaterials, and bioderivatives;
• Production and applications of biopolymers and bioplastics;
• Separation and purification of biofuels, biochemicals, biomaterials, and polymers;
• Novel energy storage solutions; Integrated renewable energy systems;
• Energy systems modeling and optimization (including numerical and analytical modeling, computational chemistry, etc.);
• Energy system components and design;
• Renewable energy and energy economy;
• Life cycle assessment for related systems;
• Energy safety.

Dr. Muhammad Sajid
Dr. Nisar Ali
Dr. Muhammad Farooq
Dr. Mairui Zhang
Topic Editors

Keywords

Participating Journals

Journal Name	Impact Factor	CiteScore	Launched Year	First Decision (median)	APC
ChemEngineering ChemEngineering	3.4	4.9	2017	32.8 Days	CHF 1800	Submit
Chemistry chemistry	2.4	3.9	2019	15 Days	CHF 1800	Submit
Energies energies	3.2	7.3	2008	16.8 Days	CHF 2600	Submit
Processes processes	2.8	5.5	2013	14.9 Days	CHF 2400	Submit
Sustainability sustainability	3.3	7.7	2009	17.9 Days	CHF 2400	Submit
Technologies technologies	3.6	8.5	2013	19.1 Days	CHF 1800	Submit

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Published Papers (9 papers)

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27 pages, 4235 KB  

Open AccessArticle

Hybrid PV/PVT-Assisted Green Hydrogen Production for Refueling Stations: A Techno-Economic Assessment

by Karthik Subramanya Bhat, Ashish Srivastava, Momir Tabakovic and Daniel Bell

Energies 2026, 19(8), 1966; https://doi.org/10.3390/en19081966 - 18 Apr 2026

Viewed by 220

Abstract

Decarbonizing the transportation sector requires quick adoption of low-carbon energy carriers, with green hydrogen becoming a promising option for zero/low-emission mobility. Hydrogen refueling stations powered by renewable energy sources present a practical way to cut down lifecycle greenhouse gases and ease grid congestion. [...] Read more.

Decarbonizing the transportation sector requires quick adoption of low-carbon energy carriers, with green hydrogen becoming a promising option for zero/low-emission mobility. Hydrogen refueling stations powered by renewable energy sources present a practical way to cut down lifecycle greenhouse gases and ease grid congestion. Nonetheless, most existing photovoltaic (PV)-based hydrogen production systems focus solely on electrical aspects, overlooking thermal energy flows and temperature effects that greatly impact PV and Electrolyzer performance. This study provides a thorough techno-economic evaluation of a hybrid PV/photovoltaic-thermal (PVT) green hydrogen system for refueling stations. The simulation framework models the combined electrical, thermal, and hydrogen subsystems under realistic conditions, incorporating rooftop PV/PVT collectors, battery storage, a water Electrolyzer, and hydrogen storage. Thermal energy from the PVT is used to pre-heat Electrolyzer feedwater, lowering electricity demand for hydrogen production and boosting PV efficiency via active cooling. Hydrogen production follows a demand-driven control strategy based on randomly generated stochastic daily refueling events. Three configurations are compared: (i) grid-only electrolysis, (ii) PV-only assisted electrolysis, and (iii) fully integrated PV/PVT-assisted electrolysis. The results show that the integrated PV/PVT setup significantly increases self-consumption, autarky rate, and overall efficiency, while lowering reliance on grid electricity and hydrogen production costs. Developed case studies highlight the economic feasibility and real-world viability of PV/PVT-assisted (decentralized) hydrogen refueling infrastructure. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Green Energy and Energy Derivatives)

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15 pages, 2852 KB  

Open AccessArticle

Biochar Synthesized from Post-Consumer Coffee Waste Using Molten Salts for Sodium-Ion Battery Applications

by Oscar Antonio Escobar Juárez, Ebelia Del Angel Meraz, Enrique Quiroga González, Mayara Osorio García, José Guadalupe Pacheco Sosa, Mayra Agustina Pantoja Castro and María Guadalupe Hernández Cruz

Chemistry 2026, 8(4), 51; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemistry8040051 - 10 Apr 2026

Viewed by 437

Abstract

Biochars derived from post-consumer coffee residues were synthesized using NaCl and NaHCO₃ as impregnation agents, which were pyrolyzed at 500 and 1000 °C. Structural characterization revealed that NaHCO₃ treatment at 1000 °C generated a highly interconnected porous network, with a surface [...] Read more.

Biochars derived from post-consumer coffee residues were synthesized using NaCl and NaHCO₃ as impregnation agents, which were pyrolyzed at 500 and 1000 °C. Structural characterization revealed that NaHCO₃ treatment at 1000 °C generated a highly interconnected porous network, with a surface area of 1353.22 m² g⁻¹, pore volume of 0.83 cm³ g⁻¹, and average pore size of 2.6 nm. These features, confirmed by nitrogen physisorption and SEM, favor Na⁺ accessibility and insertion. XRD and Raman analyses indicated a predominantly amorphous carbon, with graphitic domains and an interplanar distance of ≈0.34 nm, providing both adsorption capacity and electrical conductivity. Electrochemical evaluation showed that BC_{NaHCO3-1000°C} achieved an initial capacity of 34 mAh g⁻¹, stable for more than 15 cycles, outperforming NaCl-treated biochars. However, despite the favorable morphology, the high surface area may also promote side reactions and irreversible capacity loss, limiting overall efficiency. These findings demonstrate the feasibility of valorizing coffee waste into carbonaceous materials for sodium-ion battery anodes, while highlighting the need for further optimization of porosity, graphitization, and compositional modifications to enhance energy storage performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Green Energy and Energy Derivatives)

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35 pages, 4542 KB  

Open AccessReview

Policy Instruments for Bioenergy Development: Review, Classification, and Systematic Analysis

by Omid Mohagheghi, Fereshteh Mafakheri and Fuzhan Nasiri

Energies 2026, 19(5), 1158; https://doi.org/10.3390/en19051158 - 26 Feb 2026

Viewed by 639

Abstract

Bioenergy is a cornerstone of the global energy transition and is vital to achieving ambitious climate goals such as the IEA’s Net Zero Emissions by 2050 Roadmap and the Paris Agreement. However, its deployment is still limited by high capital costs and low [...] Read more.

Bioenergy is a cornerstone of the global energy transition and is vital to achieving ambitious climate goals such as the IEA’s Net Zero Emissions by 2050 Roadmap and the Paris Agreement. However, its deployment is still limited by high capital costs and low cost-competitiveness. Numerous studies have examined policy measures to support bioenergy development, but a comprehensive review of these policies is needed to identify effective strategies. This study presents a systematic literature review that classifies and analyzes supportive policy instruments for bioenergy promotion, filling a key gap in earlier reviews. In doing so, we present a classification framework of the supporting policies and investigate their co-occurrence, modeling methodologies, and supply chain impacts across 156 peer-reviewed articles (2015–2025). The analysis reveals that price-based instruments are the most prevalent policy mechanisms, often combined with market-based approaches creating integrated support schemes. The review and its findings could provide a benchmark for policymakers and researchers seeking to design targeted, fiscally sustainable, and effective interventions to accelerate bioenergy transition. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Green Energy and Energy Derivatives)

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38 pages, 5093 KB  

Open AccessArticle

Prototype Development and Experimental Validation of a Modular Rooftop Solar-Driven PV–PEM Green Hydrogen System as a Natural Gas Alternative for Decarbonizing Textile Manufacturing

by Hakan Alici, Tuğçe Demirdelen and Büşra Çeltikçi

Sustainability 2026, 18(4), 1881; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18041881 - 12 Feb 2026

Viewed by 528

Abstract

As the global energy transition accelerates toward low-emission and sustainable industrial energy systems, green hydrogen produced from renewable sources has emerged as a promising alternative to natural gas in energy-intensive sectors. This study presents the design, implementation, and experimental validation of a rooftop [...] Read more.

As the global energy transition accelerates toward low-emission and sustainable industrial energy systems, green hydrogen produced from renewable sources has emerged as a promising alternative to natural gas in energy-intensive sectors. This study presents the design, implementation, and experimental validation of a rooftop photovoltaic–proton exchange membrane (PV–PEM) hydrogen energy system developed as a proof-of-concept for textile industry applications. The proposed system integrates monocrystalline photovoltaic panels with east–west solar tracking, a 4 kW inverter, and a PEM electrolyzer with a hydrogen production capacity of 3.6 L/h, enabling on-site solar-to-hydrogen conversion. Produced hydrogen is stored in a high-pressure metal tank and utilized for downstream energy applications, demonstrating a complete renewable energy pathway. System performance is monitored in real time and evaluated using an experimental methodology supported by GUM-based and Monte Carlo uncertainty analysis. A carbon reduction assessment is conducted under representative industrial operating scenarios, including uncertainty quantification. The results indicate that the prototype system achieves an energy output corresponding to an average monthly emission reduction of approximately 222 kg CO₂e. The modular and scalable architecture allows flexible expansion to support gradual natural gas substitution in textile processes such as drying, heating, and steam generation. Overall, the study demonstrates the technical feasibility and environmental potential of integrating rooftop PV–PEM hydrogen systems into textile manufacturing, providing a transferable framework for industrial decarbonization. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Green Energy and Energy Derivatives)

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16 pages, 2572 KB  

Open AccessArticle

A Genetic Programming-Based Method to Derive Self-Optimizing Control Schemes for Dividing-Wall Columns

by Mingzhang Wang, Linlin Zhang, Shuaishuai Han, Yang Yuan, Haisheng Chen, Xing Qian, Juan Chen and Tao Xia

Processes 2026, 14(1), 64; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr14010064 - 24 Dec 2025

Viewed by 433

Abstract

Self-optimizing control (SOC) aims to maintain controlled variables associated with system energy consumption at constant setpoints, thereby enabling near-optimal operation under various disturbance conditions. A core challenge in SOC scheme design is the selection of appropriate self-optimizing controlled variables (SOCVs). To address this [...] Read more.

Self-optimizing control (SOC) aims to maintain controlled variables associated with system energy consumption at constant setpoints, thereby enabling near-optimal operation under various disturbance conditions. A core challenge in SOC scheme design is the selection of appropriate self-optimizing controlled variables (SOCVs). To address this challenge, a genetic programming (GP)-based method is proposed to identify linear combinations of process variables that minimize energy consumption, which enhances the scientific rigor and efficiency of SOCV selection. The proposed method is validated through a case study involving a dividing-wall column (DWC) for the separation of an ethanol-propanol-butanol ternary mixture. The derived SOC scheme incorporates three concentration-temperature cascade control loops to ensure the maintenance of product purities, alongside a temperature-inferential SOC loop dedicated to energy minimization. In this SOC loop, the liquid split ratio serves as the manipulated variable, while the GP-derived SOCV is a linear combination of temperatures from three sensitive stages. Closed-loop simulation results confirm that the proposed SOC scheme achieves stable and energy-efficient operation across multiple disturbance scenarios. Notably, compared with conventional control schemes featuring fixed liquid split ratios or single-temperature SOCVs, the proposed scheme eliminates the need for additional temperature measurements while realizing reduced energy consumption. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Green Energy and Energy Derivatives)

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26 pages, 1163 KB  

Open AccessArticle

Advanced Analytical Modeling of Polytropic Gas Flow in Pipelines: Unifying Flow Regimes for Efficient Energy Transport

by Laszlo Garbai, Robert Santa and Mladen Bošnjaković

Technologies 2025, 13(11), 482; https://doi.org/10.3390/technologies13110482 - 25 Oct 2025

Viewed by 729

Abstract

In the present work, a new analytical model of polytropic flow in constant-diameter pipelines is developed to accurately describe the flow of compressible gases, including natural gas and hydrogen, explicitly accounting for heat exchange between the fluid and the environment. In contrast to [...] Read more.

In the present work, a new analytical model of polytropic flow in constant-diameter pipelines is developed to accurately describe the flow of compressible gases, including natural gas and hydrogen, explicitly accounting for heat exchange between the fluid and the environment. In contrast to conventional models that assume isothermal or adiabatic conditions, the proposed model simultaneously accounts for variations in pressure, temperature, density, and entropy, i.e., it is based on a realistic polytropic gas flow formulation. A system of differential equations is established, incorporating the momentum, continuity, energy, and state equations of the gas. An implicit closed-form solution for the specific volume along the pipeline axis is then derived. The model is universal and allows the derivation of special cases such as adiabatic, isothermal, and isentropic flows. Numerical simulations demonstrate the influence of heat flow on the variation in specific volume, highlighting the critical role of heat exchange under real conditions for the optimization and design of energy systems. It is shown that achieving isentropic flow would require the continuous removal of frictional heat, which is not practically feasible. The proposed model therefore provides a clear, reproducible, and easily visualized framework for analyzing gas flows in pipelines, offering valuable support for engineering design and education. In addition, a unified sensitivity analysis of the analytical solutions has been developed, enabling systematic evaluation of parameter influence across the subsonic, near-critical, and heated flow regimes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Green Energy and Energy Derivatives)

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16 pages, 1483 KB  

Open AccessReview

Enhancing the Performance of Aluminum Anodes in Aqueous Batteries: A Review on Alloying, Microstructure, and Corrosion Inhibition Strategies

by Peiqiang Chen, Jinmao Chen, Qun Zheng, Yujuan Yin, Xing Su, Man Ruan and Long Huang

Sustainability 2025, 17(20), 9220; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17209220 - 17 Oct 2025

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1915

Abstract

Aluminum-based seawater activated batteries (Al-SWBs) are highly cost-effective energy storage systems, with aluminum exhibiting a theoretical specific capacity of 2.98 Ah/g, second only to lithium, making it a promising candidate for next-generation sustainable energy storage and conversion technologies. However, severe hydrogen evolution and [...] Read more.

Aluminum-based seawater activated batteries (Al-SWBs) are highly cost-effective energy storage systems, with aluminum exhibiting a theoretical specific capacity of 2.98 Ah/g, second only to lithium, making it a promising candidate for next-generation sustainable energy storage and conversion technologies. However, severe hydrogen evolution and self-corrosion side reactions hinder the practical application of Al-SWBs, leading to unsatisfactory utilization of aluminum anodes. This review systematically summarizes the fundamental principles and strategies for enhancing the utilization efficiency of aluminum anodes from the perspectives of influencing factors and improvement approaches. In terms of alloying element doping, attention should be paid not only to elements that enhance performance but also to the impact of harmful impurities. Microstructure control can be achieved through advanced preparation techniques and subsequent annealing processes. Furthermore, the addition of corrosion inhibitors to the electrolyte can form a protective layer on the electrode surface, effectively suppressing self-corrosion behavior. This review aims to provide valuable insights and guidance for the development of sustainable and high-performance Al-SWBs, contributing to the advancement of green energy technologies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Green Energy and Energy Derivatives)

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23 pages, 12241 KB  

Open AccessArticle

Biodiesel Isomerization Using Sulfated Tin(IV) Oxide as a Superacid Catalyst to Improve Cold Flow Properties

by Yano Surya Pradana, I Gusti Bagus Ngurah Makertihartha, Tirto Prakoso, Tatang Hernas Soerawidjaja and Antonius Indarto

Technologies 2025, 13(5), 203; https://doi.org/10.3390/technologies13050203 - 16 May 2025

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1542

Abstract

The development of alternative energies has become a concern for all countries to ensure domestic energy supply and provide environmental friendliness. One of the providential alternative energies is biodiesel. Biodiesel, commonly stated as fatty acid alkyl ester (FAAE), is a liquid fuel intended [...] Read more.

The development of alternative energies has become a concern for all countries to ensure domestic energy supply and provide environmental friendliness. One of the providential alternative energies is biodiesel. Biodiesel, commonly stated as fatty acid alkyl ester (FAAE), is a liquid fuel intended to substitute petroleum diesel. Nevertheless, implementation of pure biodiesel is not recommended for conventional diesel engines. It holds poor values of cold flow properties, as the effect of high saturated FAAE content contributes to this constraint. Several processes have been proposed to enhance cold flow properties of biodiesel, but this work focuses on the skeletal isomerization process. This process rearranges the skeletal carbon chain of straight-chain FAAE into branched isomeric products to lower the melting point, related to the good cold flow behavior. This method specifically requires an acid catalyst to elevate the isomerization reaction rate. And then, sulfated tin(IV) oxide emerged as a solid superacid catalyst due to its superiority in acidity. The results of biodiesel isomerization over this catalyst and its modification with iron had not satisfied the expectation of high isomerization yield and significant CFP improvement. However, they emphasized that the skeletal isomers demonstrated minimum impact on biodiesel oxidation stability. They also affirmed the role of an acid catalyst in the reaction mechanism in terms of protonation, isomerization, and deprotonation. Furthermore, the metal promotion was theoretically necessary to boost the catalytic activity of this material. It initiated the dehydrogenation of linear hydrocarbon before protonation and terminated the isomerization by hydrogenating the branched carbon chain after deprotonation. Finally, the overall findings indicated promising prospects for further enhancement of catalyst performance and reusability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Green Energy and Energy Derivatives)

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23 pages, 7410 KB  

Open AccessArticle

Techno-Economic Analysis of Geospatial Green Hydrogen Potential Using Solar Photovoltaic in Niger: Application of PEM and Alkaline Water Electrolyzers

by Bachirou Djibo Boubé, Ramchandra Bhandari, Moussa Mounkaila Saley, Abdou Latif Bonkaney and Rabani Adamou

Energies 2025, 18(7), 1872; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18071872 - 7 Apr 2025

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1673

Abstract

This study evaluates the techno-economic feasibility of solar-based green hydrogen potential for off-grid and utility-scale systems in Niger. The geospatial approach is first employed to identify the area available for green hydrogen production based on environmental and socio-technical constraints. Second, we evaluate the [...] Read more.

This study evaluates the techno-economic feasibility of solar-based green hydrogen potential for off-grid and utility-scale systems in Niger. The geospatial approach is first employed to identify the area available for green hydrogen production based on environmental and socio-technical constraints. Second, we evaluate the potential of green hydrogen production using a geographic information system (GIS) tool, followed by an economic analysis of the levelized cost of hydrogen (LCOH) for alkaline and proton exchange membrane (PEM) water electrolyzers using fresh and desalinated water. The results show that the electricity generation potential is 311,617 TWh/year and 353,166 TWh/year for off-grid and utility-scale systems. The hydrogen potential using PEM (alkaline) water electrolyzers is calculated to be 5932 Mt/year and 6723 Mt/year (5694 Mt/year and 6454 Mt/year) for off-grid and utility-scale systems, respectively. The LCOH production potential decreases for PEM and alkaline water electrolyzers by 2030, ranging between 4.72–5.99 EUR/kgH₂ and 5.05–6.37 EUR/kgH₂ for off-grid and 4.09–5.21 EUR/kgH₂ and 4.22–5.4 EUR/kgH₂ for utility-scale systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Green Energy and Energy Derivatives)

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