Energy Transition: Balancing Economic, Political, and Social Realities

Topic Information

Dear Colleagues,

The shift to renewable energy sources has triggered a multifaceted transformation with a dramatic impact on economic, political, and social realms. Economically, this transformation requires substantial investments, creating new job opportunities while reshaping traditional energy markets. Politically, it demands policy adjustments to reconcile environmental goals with economic interests and geopolitical factors. Socially, it raises concerns about energy justice, fair access to clean energy, and the welfare of communities tied to fossil fuels. It is essential that inclusivity is ensured and that the transition speed is managed, necessitating collaboration among stakeholders. Education, public engagement, and equitable policies are crucial for achieving a successful energy transition. To accomplish this objective, research is needed to understand how technological advancements and socio-economic strategies can be aligned with the intertwined dynamics of economics, politics, and society. We welcome papers from various fields related to economics, business management, sociology, energy engineering, and beyond.

Prof. Dr. Kentaka Aruga
Dr. Raymond Li
Dr. Honorata Nyga-Łukaszewska
Topic Editors

Keywords

Participating Journals

Journal Name	Impact Factor	CiteScore	Launched Year	First Decision (median)	APC
Economies economies	2.1	4.0	2013	21.9 Days	CHF 1800	Submit
Energies energies	3.0	6.2	2008	16.8 Days	CHF 2600	Submit
Social Sciences socsci	1.7	2.6	2012	34.2 Days	CHF 1800	Submit
Sustainability sustainability	3.3	6.8	2009	19.7 Days	CHF 2400	Submit

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Published Papers (4 papers)

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All Economies Energies Social Sciences Sustainability

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22 pages, 277 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Assessment of the Compliance of Environmental Disclosures by Energy Companies Using GRI Standards with European Sustainability Reporting Standards: A Case Study

by Łukasz Matuszak, Ewa Różańska and Elżbieta Izabela Szczepankiewicz

Sustainability 2025, 17(8), 3380; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17083380 - 10 Apr 2025

Viewed by 369

Abstract

The Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) has maintained the world’s most comprehensive and dominant sustainability reporting standards. While primarily voluntary, they were widely used by energy companies, especially in the environmental disclosure area. With the recent introduction of the mandatory European Sustainability Reporting Standards [...] Read more.

The Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) has maintained the world’s most comprehensive and dominant sustainability reporting standards. While primarily voluntary, they were widely used by energy companies, especially in the environmental disclosure area. With the recent introduction of the mandatory European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS), companies may face challenges transitioning from GRI to ESRS. In this context, this study provides a comprehensive analysis of the GRI Standards and the ESRS, focusing on their environmental disclosure requirements (‘E’). The purpose of our study is to evaluate the current level of environmental reporting by Polish energy companies based on GRI Standards, assess their compliance with the ESRS requirements under the ‘E’ pillar, and determine the role of GRI disclosures in facilitating the transition to the new standards. A case study approach was employed, using data manually collected from 2023 reports prepared according to GRI Standards by Polish energy companies. Content analysis and the GRI-ESRS Interoperability Index were applied. The findings reveal notable differences in the application of GRI Standards among the companies. The level of environmental disclosures based on GRI Standards is relatively low compared to ESRS requirements, suggesting that companies will face challenges in setting up systems to meet future reporting requirements. This study provides insights into current and emerging practices in environmental reporting, offering valuable implications for EU energy companies preparing their environmental reports in accordance with ESRS requirements. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Energy Transition: Balancing Economic, Political, and Social Realities)

22 pages, 715 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Exploring External Costs on the Example of Sea–Land Transport Chains of Refrigerated Cargo Between Spain and Poland

by Marcin Kalinowski, Rafał Koba, Patryk Lipka, Krzysztof Czaplewski, Adam Weintrit and Joanna Witkowska

Sustainability 2025, 17(1), 162; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17010162 - 28 Dec 2024

Viewed by 963

Abstract

The aim of this study is to identify sea–land transport chains of refrigerated cargo against the background of direct road transport on the Valencia–Warsaw route based on the analysis of external costs with particular consideration of the external costs of energy production in [...] Read more.

The aim of this study is to identify sea–land transport chains of refrigerated cargo against the background of direct road transport on the Valencia–Warsaw route based on the analysis of external costs with particular consideration of the external costs of energy production in road and sea transport. Fruits and vegetables were assumed to be a group of refrigerated cargo in the study. The considerations so far have shown that many refrigerated cargo operators transported between Spain and Poland are only sometimes guided by full and up-to-date knowledge of the amount of external costs in their transport decisions. It seems reasonable to undertake information activities at the national level addressed to cargo operators and organizations associating with them, aimed at presenting the total costs of both direct and external transport. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Energy Transition: Balancing Economic, Political, and Social Realities)

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18 pages, 679 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Barriers to the Implementation of On-Grid Photovoltaic Systems in Ecuador

by Mateo Mogrovejo-Narvaez, Antonio Barragán-Escandón, Esteban Zalamea-León and Xavier Serrano-Guerrero

Sustainability 2024, 16(21), 9466; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16219466 - 31 Oct 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1749

Abstract

Ecuador has significant solar potential, and the growing demand calls for sustainable energy solutions. Photovoltaic (PV) microgeneration in buildings is an ideal alternative. Identifying barriers to the widespread adoption of this technology is based on expert consultation and multi-criteria analysis, followed by proposals [...] Read more.

Ecuador has significant solar potential, and the growing demand calls for sustainable energy solutions. Photovoltaic (PV) microgeneration in buildings is an ideal alternative. Identifying barriers to the widespread adoption of this technology is based on expert consultation and multi-criteria analysis, followed by proposals to overcome these challenges. The methodology of this study includes a systematic literature review (SLR), surveys of industry professionals, and statistical analysis of the collected data. The results highlight barriers such as the high initial cost, government-subsidized tariffs, bureaucratic processes and permits, ineffective regulations, limited awareness, lack of financing, distribution and operational network challenges, and insufficient government incentives. The proposed solutions suggest developing incentive policies to promote investment in PV microgeneration, training programs to enhance technical and cultural knowledge of solar energy, simplifying regulatory processes to facilitate project implementation, and providing accessible financing to reduce economic barriers. Additionally, the recommendations include the implementation of demonstration and outreach projects to showcase the feasibility and benefits of PV microgeneration, thus improving the social and technical acceptance of these systems. These actions aim to foster a faster and more effective energy transition in Ecuador. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Energy Transition: Balancing Economic, Political, and Social Realities)

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30 pages, 3973 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Enhancing Renewable Energy Integration in Developing Countries: A Policy-Oriented Analysis of Net Metering in Pakistan Amid Economic Challenges

by Noor Saleem Khan, Syed Ali Abbas Kazmi, Mustafa Anwar, Saqib Ur Rehman Mughal, Kafait Ullah, Mahesh Kumar Rathi and Ahmad Salal

Sustainability 2024, 16(14), 6034; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16146034 - 15 Jul 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3126

Abstract

Net metering (NM) is among the potent regulatory tools used globally for supporting distributed generation and renewable energy sources. This paper examines the trajectory of NM in a developing country such as Pakistan, analyzing the impact of regulatory changes, confidence-building strategies, hindering factors, [...] Read more.

Net metering (NM) is among the potent regulatory tools used globally for supporting distributed generation and renewable energy sources. This paper examines the trajectory of NM in a developing country such as Pakistan, analyzing the impact of regulatory changes, confidence-building strategies, hindering factors, and technical/financial issues. The three-stage methodology involves three components, namely techno-economic analysis, stakeholder engagement surveys, and impact analysis of financing mechanisms. This study emphasizes the importance of clear regulatory and financial frameworks, grid upgrades, and public–private partnerships for technology distribution in the context of a developing country with weak grid utilities and an import–export energy ratio. It also explores the role of financial incentives, such as tax breaks and subsidies, to encourage investment in NM systems from the perspective of lucrative rates, impact on paybacks, and return on investments, and proposes concrete solutions to enhance financial inclusion for ambitious renewable energy goals. Until April 2023, over 56,000 NM/distributed generation facilities were commissioned, with an installed capacity of 950 MW. By May 2024, the number of NM consumers reached ~100,000, with a 1950 MW capacity, nearly doubling. However, the import and export ratio of IESCO changed most, with 61% exports and 39% imports, directly impacting the revenue stream. A total of 60% of banks have adopted actions linked with green banking criteria, aiming to limit their environmental impact. The change in tariff will result in reduced ROI for NM consumers to 20%, and increase the payback period from less than 4 years to 13 years. Government subsidies, tax breaks, and green financing frameworks are proposed to encourage investment, but have been abruptly halted, and were previously at a 6% interest rate. This research aims to provide insights into effective market evaluation methodologies for NM programs and offer policy recommendations to strengthen legislative and institutional frameworks governing NM. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Energy Transition: Balancing Economic, Political, and Social Realities)

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