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A special issue of Energies (ISSN 1996-1073). This special issue belongs to the section "C: Energy Economics and Policy".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 December 2024 | Viewed by 13177

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Prof. Dr. Piotr Borowski

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Faculty of Business and International Relations, Vistula University, 02-787 Warsaw, Poland
Interests: energy companies; power plant stations; strategic management; digitization; innovations; zero emissions
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Renewable energy sources represent a key pillar in the transformation of the economy towards zero carbon dioxide emissions. Scientific research related to the utilization of renewable sources, such as biomass, photovoltaics, wind energy, and hydropower, holds a significant place in the academic and scientific environment. Studies on renewable energy sources focus not only on increasing their efficiency but also on analysing their environmental impact, developing new technologies, and integrating these sources into existing energy systems. Progress in these fields is crucial for achieving global sustainable development goals and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Authors are encouraged to submit articles that focus on renewable energy sources, that analyse their impact on the operations of the energy industry, and that discuss actions taken to achieve a zero-emission economy. The topics of the articles may cover diverse aspects such as technological innovations in the field of renewable energy sources, economic implications for the energy industry, adaptive strategies in the face of climate change, and the analysis of the effectiveness of initiatives aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Authors are encouraged to share their research, practical experiences, and reflections on the role of renewable energy sources in shaping sustainable business practices and contributing to global environmental goals.

Prof. Dr. Piotr Borowski
Guest Editor

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Keywords

renewable energy sources
zero-emission strategy
energy market

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Published Papers (7 papers)

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Research

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17 pages, 1311 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analyze the Temporal and Spatial Distribution of Carbon Capture in Sustainable Development of Work

by Fu-Hsuan Chen and Hao-Ren Liu

Energies 2024, 17(21), 5416; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17215416 - 30 Oct 2024

Viewed by 488

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the temporal and spatial distribution of carbon capture technologies worldwide, examining the economic, social, and political developments reflected in related academic literature. By conducting a comprehensive analysis of over 40,000 related documents from 2004 to June 2024, as well as selecting 108 relevant articles from SSCI and SCI journals, the study explores the development of carbon capture technologies from different perspectives through keyword searches, trend analysis, and relevance ranking. The study finds that, in terms of temporal trends, significant progress has been made in carbon capture technologies since 2009, and their importance has surpassed that of carbon trading, becoming one of the core technologies in addressing climate change. Spatial trend analysis shows that North American and European countries are more inclined to prioritize “carbon capture” technologies, while Asian countries focus more on “carbon trading”, reflecting regional differences in economic, policy, and technological development. Although carbon capture technologies hold immense potential for sustainable development, they also face numerous challenges, including balancing technological advancements with economic and policy frameworks. This balance is crucial to ensuring that carbon capture technologies can make a positive contribution to sustainable work, climate action, and environmental sustainability, further transforming the essence of sustainable efforts. To fully realize their benefits, it is essential to recognize and address these challenges. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Renewable Energy Sources towards a Zero-Emission Economy)

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22 pages, 4051 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Investigating Published Research towards a Fossil-Energy-Free Agriculture Transformation

by Athanasios T. Balafoutis, Magdalena Borzecka, Stelios Rozakis, Katerina Troullaki, Foteini Vandorou and Malgorzata Wydra

Energies 2024, 17(17), 4409; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17174409 - 3 Sep 2024

Viewed by 539

Abstract

The defossilisation of the agricultural sector is driven by intense worldwide academic research on non-fossil, renewable and energy-efficient agriculture, and the acknowledgment of the need for sustainable farming practices. For this purpose, not only technical transformations but also socio-technical system changes towards sustainability need to take place in a co-evolutionary manner. This paper investigates structural and qualitative characteristics of the knowledge produced by research on fossil-energy-free agriculture. We provide evidence on the worldwide research directions, as well as investigate whether academic research and publicly funded research projects foster knowledge creation for the desired transformation. Bibliographic maps are constructed using a query-based methodology as social networks to investigate the efficiency of the EU-funded research to achieve the goals set for the 2050 EU Green Deal. The H2020-funded papers are further analysed with dictionary-based text analysis to quantify the relative emphasis of different types of knowledge in the text. This approach is eventually used to relate transformational capacity to project profiles in the European Union, to evaluate past funding schemes and to improve the shape of future research programs on renewable and sustainable agriculture. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Renewable Energy Sources towards a Zero-Emission Economy)

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28 pages, 2921 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

European Climate Policy in the Context of the Problem of Methane Emissions from Coal Mines in Poland

by Bożena Gajdzik, Katarzyna Tobór-Osadnik, Radosław Wolniak and Wiesław Wes Grebski

Energies 2024, 17(10), 2396; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17102396 - 16 May 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1108

Abstract

This paper presents a thorough examination of methane capture from Polish coal mines, contextualized within the framework of the European Union’s (EU) climate policy objectives. Through a strategic analysis encompassing the interior of coal mines, the surrounding environment, and the macro environment, this study elucidates the complex dynamics involved in methane emissions and capture initiatives. The key findings include a declining trend in absolute methane emissions since 2008, despite fluctuations in coal extraction volumes, and a relatively stable level of methane capture exceeding 300 million m³/year since 2014. The analysis underscores the critical role of government support, both in terms of financial incentives and streamlined regulatory processes, to facilitate the integration of methane capture technologies into coal mining operations. Collaboration through partnerships and stakeholder engagement emerges as essential for overcoming resource competition and ensuring the long-term success of methane capture projects. This paper also highlights the economic and environmental opportunities presented by methane reserves, emphasizing the importance of investment in efficient extraction technologies. Despite these advancements, challenges persist, particularly regarding the low efficiency of current de-methanation technologies. Recommendations for modernization and technological innovation are proposed to enhance methane capture efficiency and utilization. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Renewable Energy Sources towards a Zero-Emission Economy)

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16 pages, 2063 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Not All about the Money: The Role of Financial Information in Promoting Residential Rooftop Photovoltaics

by David Boaz, Ruslana Rachel Palatnik and Ofira Ayalon

Energies 2024, 17(9), 2043; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17092043 - 25 Apr 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1376

Abstract

This study investigates the role of financial information in shaping the intention to adopt (ITA) Residential Rooftop Photovoltaic (RPV) systems in Israel—a country with a surprisingly low RPV adoption rate given the high solar irradiance, and significant governmental support for RPV. We used an online survey of 899 respondents to examine how different presentations of RPV revenues impact both RPV deal comprehension and ITA. Our results align with existing literature on the roles of early technology adopters and pro-environmental characteristics while introducing two novel findings. First, households value their roofs—especially flat ones used for leisure. This negatively impacts ITA. Second, we found a positive correlation between trust in government entities and ITA, underscoring the importance of trust in institutions. Although financial information does enhance RPV deal comprehension, it does not significantly influence ITA. This study concludes that RPV penetration should not be promoted solely by financial incentives, but also by other motivations like environmental concerns, novelty seeking, and improved institutional trust. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Renewable Energy Sources towards a Zero-Emission Economy)

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24 pages, 5035 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Increasing Energy Efficiency Based on the Kaizen Approach

by Armenia Androniceanu, Ioana-Catalina Enache, Elena-Narcisa Valter and Florin-Felix Raduica

Energies 2023, 16(4), 1930; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16041930 - 15 Feb 2023

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 6192

Abstract

The energy crisis, an increasing concern of the industrial sector, is characterized by increased energy costs and low energy availability. As part of an effort to increase energy efficiency, the present study assessed the impact of applying lean tools on the energy consumption of a manufacturing organization. Using the Kaizen approach, the organization’s processes were analyzed to identify the main vulnerabilities and make the required changes to increase consumption performance. Several technical improvements were performed to reach increased energy efficiency. Results showed an energy efficiency increase; consumption was reduced by up to 7.5% in the production line, 3.5% in the extruder stage, and up to 20% for the injection stage of the manufacturing process. The results suggest that the organization’s energy reduction targets have been achieved. Standardization of procedures was useful in the development of Kaizen projects which could be applied with certain limitations. The implications of these results for understanding energy consumption reduction are discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Renewable Energy Sources towards a Zero-Emission Economy)

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Review

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21 pages, 3133 KiB

Open AccessReview

Renewable Energy Source Utilization Progress in South Africa: A Review

by Abayomi A. Adebiyi and Katleho Moloi

Energies 2024, 17(14), 3487; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17143487 - 16 Jul 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1670

Abstract

Renewable energy has emerged as a promising solution to address the challenges of climate change, energy security, and socio-economic development. South Africa, with its abundant renewable energy resources, has made significant strides in the utilization of renewable energy over the past decade. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the progress of renewable energy advancement in South Africa, examining the policies, initiatives, and achievements in various renewable energy sectors. This study explores the country’s transition from a heavily coal-dependent energy system to a diversified and sustainable energy mix. It analyses the growth of renewable energy technologies, such as wind power and solar photovoltaic (PV), highlighting the key milestones, challenges, and opportunities. Furthermore, this paper discusses the role of government support, regulatory frameworks, and private sector investments in driving renewable energy deployment in South Africa. Finally, it identifies the prospects and potential areas for further advancement in the renewable energy sector. This review aims to contribute to the understanding of South Africa’s renewable energy journey and provides valuable insights for policy-makers, researchers, and stakeholders involved in the sustainable energy transition. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Renewable Energy Sources towards a Zero-Emission Economy)

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17 pages, 410 KiB

Open AccessReview

Business Models on the Energy Market in the Era of a Low-Emission Economy

by Arkadiusz Sułek and Piotr F. Borowski

Energies 2024, 17(13), 3235; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17133235 - 1 Jul 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1301

Abstract

In the energy market, we observe a dynamic development of innovative business models that take into account various aspects related to the direction of zero-emission economic growth. Companies are intensifying their efforts in utilizing renewable energy sources, implementing significant photovoltaic projects, and advancing technologies related to wind and hydrodynamic energy. Within this trend, microgrids become a crucial element, enabling efficient management of local energy sources. Contemporary energy companies also focus on innovative digital technologies, harnessing the potential of the Internet of Things (IoT) and artificial intelligence (AI). These tools allow for precise monitoring and optimization of energy consumption, resulting in increased operational efficiency. The expansion of subscription-based energy services encompasses not only traditional energy deliveries but also new aspects, such as intelligent management of home energy installations or the provision of advisory services on energy conservation. This approach emphasizes the customer as a partner in sustainable energy usage. Hybrid energy models, integrating diverse energy sources, constitute a key element in the transformation of the sector. The combination of photovoltaic, wind, and traditional power plants allows for flexible adaptation to changing conditions and maintains stability in the energy supply. In the face of a changing energy landscape, companies consistently strive for sustainable practices, implementing strategies that not only reduce their carbon footprint but also contribute to improving efficiency, ecology, and the decentralization of the energy system. Adapting to these dynamic changes becomes not only a challenge but also an opportunity to create a more sustainable energy future. The objective of this research is to analyze key business models in the energy market and identify their impact on operational efficiency and market competitiveness. The main results indicate significant improvements in energy management and sustainability through the adoption of these models. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Renewable Energy Sources towards a Zero-Emission Economy)

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