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18 pages, 36044 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Small-Town Economic Revitalisation Conundrum: Focus on Tourism, Manufacturing, or Both?

by Danie F. Toerien

Energies 2021, 14(22), 7568; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14227568 - 12 Nov 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1682

Abstract

The decline in small towns is a concern in many countries. The manufacturing and tourism sectors are considered to be important in the revitalisation of towns but could be subject to ‘Dutch disease’. This is a malady in which success in one sector [...] Read more.

The decline in small towns is a concern in many countries. The manufacturing and tourism sectors are considered to be important in the revitalisation of towns but could be subject to ‘Dutch disease’. This is a malady in which success in one sector leads to a decline in the other. The importance of, and relationships between, the manufacturing and tourism sectors of more than 500 United States micropolitan statistical areas (micropolitans) were extensively investigated by following settlement scaling theory. Publicly available 2016 datasets were used to test a hypothesis that Dutch disease between the two sectors is important. Both sectors are present and important in virtually all of the micropolitans. Regression analyses, including log–log (power-law) analyses, were used to examine the population-based and enterprise-based orderliness in the micropolitan demographic–socioeconomic–entrepreneurial nexus. There is much orderliness, and non-linear relationships are prevalent. No evidence of the presence of Dutch disease was recorded except in one case. When the strengths of the two sectors (as a percentage of their enterprise numbers in relation to total enterprise numbers) are compared, a weak negative relationship is observed. The hypothesis that Dutch disease is important was rejected. A focus on both sectors is recommended to build resilience and to contribute to the revitalisation/development of small towns. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Approaches for Enterprise Sustainability)

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21 pages, 3022 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Striving for Enterprise Sustainability through Supplier Development Process

by Patrycja Hąbek and Juan J. Lavios

Energies 2021, 14(19), 6256; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14196256 - 1 Oct 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2396

Abstract

Much research has already been dedicated to the impact of the supply chain, but less attention has been paid to the potential of supplier development (SD) processes in strengthening enterprises’ sustainability performance. This study aimed to indicate how the approach to socially responsible [...] Read more.

Much research has already been dedicated to the impact of the supply chain, but less attention has been paid to the potential of supplier development (SD) processes in strengthening enterprises’ sustainability performance. This study aimed to indicate how the approach to socially responsible supplier development has changed over the years (2010–2019) in the automotive sector considering the types of practices and the applied areas of social responsibility. The study was based on original and empirical content analysis research of sustainability reports of car producers. To identify changes in the approach to socially responsible supplier development (SRSD) practices, 17 criteria were identified within direct as well as indirect types of supplier development practices. Considering areas of social responsibility, we applied the core subjects of social responsibility based on the ISO 26000 standard. The findings revealed that during the analyzed period, there has been a recursive use of both direct and indirect SD practices by the car producers but to varying degrees. The environmental protection, human rights, labor practices, fair operating practices, and organizational governance issues were the major concerns. When comparing 2010 and 2019, a clear increase was observed within all identified SRSD initiatives. The study outputs and examples of SRSD practices of car producers can act as a role model for automotive suppliers as well as other industries regarding how to incorporate sustainability into supplier development processes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Approaches for Enterprise Sustainability)

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17 pages, 487 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Ukrainian Economy Transformation into the Circular Based on Fuzzy-Logic Cluster Analysis

by Myroslava Bublyk, Agnieszka Kowalska-Styczeń, Vasyl Lytvyn and Victoria Vysotska

Energies 2021, 14(18), 5951; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14185951 - 18 Sep 2021

Cited by 25 | Viewed by 2635

Abstract

In the era of limited resources and progressive environmental degradation, the circular economy is a practical application of sustainable development. It is an alternative, but also competitive way to achieve economic growth in accordance with the principles of sustainable development. This issue was [...] Read more.

In the era of limited resources and progressive environmental degradation, the circular economy is a practical application of sustainable development. It is an alternative, but also competitive way to achieve economic growth in accordance with the principles of sustainable development. This issue was considered in this paper in the context of the Ukrainian economy. The Ukrainian economy’s transformation into a circular one needs to find ways to choose practical tools for such a transition, considering the destructive impact of economic activities on the environment, population, and economy. The goal was to develop a method of choosing tools for the circular transformations of economic activities for each cluster and to reduce man-made damage to the environment. Cluster analysis, fuzzy C-means method, and grouping of economic activities were used. Two analyzed sectors turned out to be the most interesting: mining and quarrying, and electricity, gas, steam, and air conditioning supply, which were finally assigned to the cluster with a high level of destructive impact, defined as ‘environmentally unfriendly’. The proposed method allows the choice of circular transformation tools for economic activities depending on the destructive impact of these economic activities within each cluster. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Approaches for Enterprise Sustainability)

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15 pages, 1631 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Identification of Market Gap as a Chance for Enterprise Development—Example of Polish Raw Materials Industry

by Marta Sukiennik, Barbara Kowal and Patrycja Bąk

Energies 2021, 14(15), 4678; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14154678 - 1 Aug 2021

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 4472

Abstract

The raw materials sector plays a key role in the Polish economy. The mineral raw material industry encompasses many different, sometimes highly specialized activities, such as exploration, mining, hauling, mineral processing, metallurgy and metal refining, as well as risk assessment, management (environmental, financial, [...] Read more.

The raw materials sector plays a key role in the Polish economy. The mineral raw material industry encompasses many different, sometimes highly specialized activities, such as exploration, mining, hauling, mineral processing, metallurgy and metal refining, as well as risk assessment, management (environmental, financial, legal) and marketing. The purpose of the article is to identify the market gap for business for entities or individuals in the mineral resources sector in Poland. Taking into account the European Union regulations which enforce the closure of hard coal mines in Poland by 2050, it is reasonable to identify such a gap in the raw materials area, especially since the current situation may turn out to be a new revival of the raw materials market after the pandemic period. Based on the NACE classification, a key area was identified, which is dedicated to potential entrepreneurs in the mineral resources area. Based on an internal analysis, the sectors directly related to the RM field in Poland were distinguished. Narrowing down the analyzed sections, leading areas were indicated that offer significant employment opportunities for hundreds of thousands of people who will be made redundant (often in groups) as a result of the phasing out of hard coal mining in Poland. As part of the article, the identification and analysis of key trends that have a significant impact on the functioning of companies, the industry, the region or the country, as well as threats, challenges and opportunities that may arise in the near future, was carried out. What is more, a number of scientific, research or development projects implemented in the area of mineral raw materials in the years 2010–2019 were analyzed. The authors present an innovative approach to defining the gap in the mineral raw materials sector in Poland in what regards conducting business activity, as well as an in-depth analysis of the sector in terms of enterprise development opportunities (creation of new start-up companies) and its directions. It should be mentioned that the presented research is the first attempt to analyze this issue in Poland. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Approaches for Enterprise Sustainability)

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20 pages, 1086 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Influence of Environmental Strategy, Environmental Reporting and Environmental Management Control System on Environmental and Economic Performance

by Petr Petera, Jaroslav Wagner and Renáta Pakšiová

Energies 2021, 14(15), 4637; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14154637 - 30 Jul 2021

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3611

Abstract

The importance of corporate social responsibility, especially in the environmental domain, continues to grow in an era of mounting climate urgency. This study is based on original, empirical, survey-based research in two post-communist European countries and seeks to add a geographical viewpoint and [...] Read more.

The importance of corporate social responsibility, especially in the environmental domain, continues to grow in an era of mounting climate urgency. This study is based on original, empirical, survey-based research in two post-communist European countries and seeks to add a geographical viewpoint and to investigate the influence of innovative constructs (environmental reporting, environmental strategy, environmental management control system) on environmental and economic performance. Data are analysed through partial least squares structural equation modelling, which enables the use of a complex model with several links between constructs. Findings reveal that environmental strategy has a positive impact on the use of an environmental management control system and an indirect positive impact on environmental performance. The environmental management control system has been shown to have a positive influence on environmental performance and, ultimately, on economic performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Approaches for Enterprise Sustainability)

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19 pages, 3526 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Multidimensional Comparative Analysis of Involvement in CSR Activities of Energy Companies in the Context of Sustainable Development Challenges: Evidence from Poland

by Tomasz L. Nawrocki and Danuta Szwajca

Energies 2021, 14(15), 4592; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14154592 - 29 Jul 2021

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3208

Abstract

In recent years, corporate involvement in CSR has become increasingly important and appreciated in the context of the ideas and assumptions regarding sustainable development. Due to the specificity of the energy sector, its particular impact on the environment, the living conditions of the [...] Read more.

In recent years, corporate involvement in CSR has become increasingly important and appreciated in the context of the ideas and assumptions regarding sustainable development. Due to the specificity of the energy sector, its particular impact on the environment, the living conditions of the population, and the social involvement of energy companies is particularly desirable, therefore it is observed and assessed by many stakeholder groups. The aim of this article is to assess the CSR commitment of Polish energy companies listed on the Warsaw Stock Exchange. The assessment was based on the proposed indicator model, based on the data published in the annual reports of the companies. The study uses data from the years 2016–2020. The main research question is as follows: What is the engagement in CSR activities of six Polish energy companies towards contractors, investors, employees, society, and the environment? The obtained results show that the investigated energy companies present a similar average level of engagement in CSR activities. The highest level of involvement concerns the area of contractors and the lowest levels relate to the donors of capital and the environment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Approaches for Enterprise Sustainability)

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19 pages, 984 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Green Work-Life Balance and Greenwashing the Construct of Work-Life Balance: Myth and Reality

by Anuradha Iddagoda, Eglantina Hysa, Helena Bulińska-Stangrecka and Otilia Manta

Energies 2021, 14(15), 4556; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14154556 - 28 Jul 2021

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 6688

Abstract

Some of the frequently used buzz words in the corporate sector include green leadership, green human resource management, green employee engagement and green work-life balance. The intention of this article is to identify and examine the logical reasons that govern “green work-life balance” [...] Read more.

Some of the frequently used buzz words in the corporate sector include green leadership, green human resource management, green employee engagement and green work-life balance. The intention of this article is to identify and examine the logical reasons that govern “green work-life balance” or, in simple terms, “greenwashing” work-life balance. The paper also aims at providing a comprehensive conceptualization of work-life balance, while thoroughly examining the components of measuring the construct. Based on a cross-sectional study in the banking industry with a sample of 170 managerial employees, this study analyzes the impact of work-life balance on employee job performance mediated by employee engagement. Results support the assumed relationship between work-life balance and employee job performance embedded in employee engagement. The theoretical contribution of this study concerns the application of role behavior theory to describe the mechanisms shaping the relationship between work-life balance and job performance through employee engagement. The practical implications of the paper include recommendations for improving job performance by enhancing the work-life balance and strengthening employee engagement. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Approaches for Enterprise Sustainability)

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19 pages, 4376 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Identification and Classification of Global Theoretical Trends and Supply Chain Development Directions

by Katarzyna Grzybowska

Energies 2021, 14(15), 4414; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14154414 - 22 Jul 2021

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2750

Abstract

The study presented in the paper is an innovative research approach. It is the result of linking the concept of supply chain management and global changes, which at present are clearly visible on a global scale, with research methodology based on the systematic [...] Read more.

The study presented in the paper is an innovative research approach. It is the result of linking the concept of supply chain management and global changes, which at present are clearly visible on a global scale, with research methodology based on the systematic literature review, knowledge visualization and an expert method that makes use of knowledge, experience and opinions of experts in a given field. This research is about a Delphi study that was conducted in the context of the development of trends of supply chain and global changes, based on the findings of a systematic literature review. The qualitative study was conducted with 30 Delphi experts in the field of the supply chain. This progressive approach to the research topic allowed us to discover key global trends and modern supply chain development directions in the context of global changes, as well as their assessment and projection of the developmental potential of these trends. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Approaches for Enterprise Sustainability)

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20 pages, 8220 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Multifaceted Challenge to Enhance Multicriteria Decision Support for Energy Policy

by Magdalena Krysiak and Aldona Kluczek

Energies 2021, 14(14), 4128; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14144128 - 8 Jul 2021

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2033

Abstract

The necessity to enhance multicriteria decision in the industry is challenging to support the current energy policy. European Union regulations and guidelines provide the guideline for minimalizing environmental harms but are not enough in their actions for providing effective sustainability assessment. None of [...] Read more.

The necessity to enhance multicriteria decision in the industry is challenging to support the current energy policy. European Union regulations and guidelines provide the guideline for minimalizing environmental harms but are not enough in their actions for providing effective sustainability assessment. None of the available standalone assessment methods do capture the comprehensibility of multicriteria decision-making. The aim of this paper is to demonstrate a challenge to incorporate the multicriteria sustainability decision-making method to mainstream energy policy, which is lacking in European Union policies. The novelty of the research lies in constructing a multicriteria sustainability approach for assessing energy technologies performance for embodying into a mainstream energy policy. In this study, the multicriteria decision-making—an approach combining life cycle-based methods, analytical hierarchy process, as well as macroeconomic analysis, was used to demonstrate the applicability of the method based on three photovoltaic technologies. The results showed that sustainability assessment supported with multicriteria decision allows to better understand analyzed factors influencing the energy technology, contributing to selection of the best sustainability technology according to the realization of an energy policy. It was proved based on a real example of photovoltaics, where string ribbon technology represents the most sustainable along its life cycle, with a 0.503 sustainability score. The study highlighted the challenge to embody the integrated method assessing sustainability-oriented technologies into an energy policy. This challenge regarding example evidence places emphasis on the decision-making process to realize an energy policy and in consequence, to improve enterprise sustainability performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Approaches for Enterprise Sustainability)

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24 pages, 2429 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Corporate Social Responsibility of Water and Sanitation Company in the Czech Republic—Case Study

by Elzbieta Pawlowska, Joanna Machnik-Slomka, Iwona Klosok-Bazan, Miroslava Gono and Radomir Gono

Energies 2021, 14(13), 3981; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14133981 - 2 Jul 2021

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3240

Abstract

The issue discussed in this article concerns corporate social responsibility (CSR), which is playing an increasingly important role in the context of sustainable development of enterprises. The purpose of the current work was to assess the practices applied in the area of corporate [...] Read more.

The issue discussed in this article concerns corporate social responsibility (CSR), which is playing an increasingly important role in the context of sustainable development of enterprises. The purpose of the current work was to assess the practices applied in the area of corporate social responsibility in water and sanitation companies, based on the opinions of employees and managers. The motivation for undertaking research on this topic resulted from the scarcity of scientific studies on the measurement of the corporate social responsibility concept in water and sanitization companies using a multidimensional approach based on the ISO 26000 standard. The study used methodological triangulation based on the use of qualitative and quantitative research methods to verify information from different sources. This approach allowed the authors to obtain the data more effectively and analyze the problem from numerous different perspectives. The study used an interview method that targeted water and sanitization utility staff. In-depth research was based on the case study method, which is particularly important when researching complex phenomena. For this purpose, surveys were carried out, the results of which indicate that corporate social responsibility of the surveyed enterprise is at a high level, and that there are statistically significant differences between individual dimensions of CSR. The results indicate that the surveyed company is oriented towards supporting activities in the area of corporate social responsibility, in accordance with the in the concept of sustainable development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Approaches for Enterprise Sustainability)

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24 pages, 4578 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Innovation in Start-Up Business Model in Energy-Saving Solutions for Sustainable Development

by Bogdan Wit, Piotr Dresler and Anna Surma-Syta

Energies 2021, 14(12), 3583; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14123583 - 16 Jun 2021

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 4336

Abstract

Socially expected innovations are innovations considering sustainable development. The subject of the paper focuses on the business model of a start-up providing energy saving services to local government units using smart technologies of Industry 4.0 in the aspect of low touch economy. A [...] Read more.

Socially expected innovations are innovations considering sustainable development. The subject of the paper focuses on the business model of a start-up providing energy saving services to local government units using smart technologies of Industry 4.0 in the aspect of low touch economy. A methodical critical literature review including quantitative and qualitative assessment, stakeholder analysis and business modeling techniques using Business Model Canvas and Triple Layer Business Model Canvas (TLBMC) was conducted. In addition, an in-depth analysis of a start-up case study was conducted. The research questions are related to the interpretation of the organization’s business data and methods of interpreting Sustainability 3.0 business solutions. The research questions were directed to the challenges regarding the creation of the organization’s sustainable business model architecture and the Business Sustainability 3.0 sustainable business imaging concept. The research objective is to design a sustainable business model of a start-up providing energy-efficient services to local government units, whose value proposition refers to an extended sustainable value that meets the economic, social and environmental needs of society. The integration of sustainability in the sustainable business model of the start-up allowed to achieve the research objective of designing a sustainable value proposition that meets the economic, social and environmental needs of society. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Approaches for Enterprise Sustainability)

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24 pages, 725 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Stakeholder Expectation of Corporate Social Responsibility Practices: A Case Study of PWiK Rybnik, Poland

by Aleksandra Kuzior, Józef Ober and Janusz Karwot

Energies 2021, 14(11), 3337; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14113337 - 6 Jun 2021

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 3636

Abstract

Practices of corporate social responsibility (CSR), especially in organizations providing key services, related to the supply of fuel, water and energy, are extremely important from the point of view of identifying stakeholders with the functioning of enterprises in line with the principles of [...] Read more.

Practices of corporate social responsibility (CSR), especially in organizations providing key services, related to the supply of fuel, water and energy, are extremely important from the point of view of identifying stakeholders with the functioning of enterprises in line with the principles of a closed loop economy. The article discusses the origins and evolution of the concept of corporate social responsibility, with particular emphasis on the water supply and sewage industry. The research problem was the perception and expectations of stakeholders toward prosocial activities of PWiK Rybnik (Sewage and Water Supply Ltd. Rybnik). The hypothesis assumed in the study was that the external stakeholders of PWIK Rybnik positively assess the company’s involvement in the tasks carried out as part of corporate social responsibility, they notice the involvement in educational activities and additional initiatives of PWIK that improve the quality of life of its inhabitants. For the purpose of this study, a quantitative method was used. For the purpose of the survey, the authors’ questionnaire “Survey of customers’ opinions on the activities undertaken by PWiK Rybnik” was created. The surveys conducted confirmed the hypothesis that the external stakeholders of PWIK Rybnik positively assess the company’s involvement in the tasks performed as part of corporate social responsibility; they notice the involvement in educational activities and additional initiatives of PWIK that improve the quality of life of its inhabitants. The results of the research made it possible to formulate guidelines for the operation of water supply and sewage companies in accordance with corporate social responsibility in the light of the opinions of their stakeholders. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Approaches for Enterprise Sustainability)

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17 pages, 288 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Model of Innovation Activity in Small Enterprises in the Context of Selected Financial Factors: The Example of the Renewable Energy Sector

by Agnieszka Kuś and Dorota Grego-Planer

Energies 2021, 14(10), 2926; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14102926 - 18 May 2021

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2854

Abstract

One of the biggest problems of the modern economy is the depletion of traditional energy sources. Despite the fact that this problem was noticed several dozen years ago, steps to solve it were taken relatively recently. In December 2017, the European Union adopted [...] Read more.

One of the biggest problems of the modern economy is the depletion of traditional energy sources. Despite the fact that this problem was noticed several dozen years ago, steps to solve it were taken relatively recently. In December 2017, the European Union adopted a position on the directive, promoting the use of energy from renewable sources in all Member States. The EU has committed itself that by 2030, at least 27% of its energy consumption will come from renewable sources. On the one hand, it is a huge challenge, but on the other hand, it is an opportunity to achieve economic growth through innovation and a sustainable energy policy. On the Polish market, the chance to achieve the assumed plan is offered mainly by small companies that have been involved in innovative activities in the renewable energy sector in recent years. Innovation is an extraordinarily important determinant of the sustainable development of economies across the world. However, introducing it into business practice is extremely challenging for business leaders. Although there are many different factors influencing companies’ engagement in innovation activity, for smaller entities, the financial aspect plays a key role. Managers of small enterprises must frequently deal with limited access to additional financial resources, the complexity of the process of determining final cost and capital structure, and its accompanying various levels of investment risk. Small companies also struggle with certain limitations on resources related to a knowledge gap in finance, tax regulations, and the forms of support potentially available at different stages of the innovation process. In light of this, it seems reasonable to establish the strict financial factors that significantly influence the innovation activity of small enterprises, especially those operating in the energy industry, due to their dynamics of development in recent years. This article aims to develop a model to explain the financial incentives for implementing innovative solutions in small businesses in the energy sector. An empirical study using the Computer-Assisted Personal Interviewmethod on a sample of 115 Polish small companies, operating in the renewable energy sector, identified critical financial factors stimulating the implementation of innovative projects. The significance of impact of key financial factors on the innovation activity of these enterprises was analysed based on a logit regression model. The results indicate that 5 of the 18 factors identified in the model were significant. These statistically significant financial determinants of the innovation activity of Polish small enterprises in the energy sector exhibited both positive and negative impacts on the level of innovation activities undertaken. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Approaches for Enterprise Sustainability)

18 pages, 1896 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Managerial Energy in Sustainable Enterprises: Organizational Wisdom Approach

by Monika Stelmaszczyk, Agata Pierścieniak and Anna Krzysztofek

Energies 2021, 14(9), 2367; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14092367 - 22 Apr 2021

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2107

Abstract

The circular economy (CE) as an idea involves applying the concept of sustainable development that has been gaining worldwide support. This shift in perception of energy and resource-use from its linear to circular forms creates a specific business environment, which constitutes the subject [...] Read more.

The circular economy (CE) as an idea involves applying the concept of sustainable development that has been gaining worldwide support. This shift in perception of energy and resource-use from its linear to circular forms creates a specific business environment, which constitutes the subject of this research. This article aims to analyze the impact of a manager’s energy on organizational wisdom, focusing on its circular business model activity. In the beginning, the article focuses on presenting ideas of the circular economy, emphasizing the manager’s activity in implementing strategic and operational tasks. These activities are identified as energy to launch mechanisms for developing organizational wisdom for sustainable enterprise. Assuming that organizational wisdom consists of two dimensions, organizational learning, and absorptive capacity, the research identifies relationships between them. The study was conducted at VIVE Textile Recycling Ltd., (Kielce, Poland). Empirical data were collected from 138 managers using the PAPI technique. Regression analysis and structural equation modeling (SEM) were applied to test the research hypotheses. Main results: Managerial energy (ME) is understood as the active attitude of managers who use knowledge from their environments to achieve goals both in the operational and strategic areas. Being an activating force for sustainable enterprise, ME is viewed as the antecedent to the development of enterprises operating in the CE model. ME directly activates the process of developing organizational wisdom in the area of absorptive capacity (AC) at the stages of assimilation, transformation, and exploitation. The transfer of knowledge from the individual to the organizational level (acquisition) requires a mediator, which is in this case the process of organizational learning (OL). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Approaches for Enterprise Sustainability)

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19 pages, 1212 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Drivers and Barriers for a Circular Economy (CE) Implementation in Poland—A Case Study of Raw Materials Recovery Sector

by Marzena Smol, Paulina Marcinek and Eugeniusz Koda

Energies 2021, 14(8), 2219; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14082219 - 16 Apr 2021

Cited by 40 | Viewed by 3830

Abstract

Mobilizing industry and transforming industrial sectors to a circular economy (CE) is one of the key areas of activities in the European Green Deal (EGD)—the newest strategy of economic growth in European Union (EU). In the CE, the raw materials that can be [...] Read more.

Mobilizing industry and transforming industrial sectors to a circular economy (CE) is one of the key areas of activities in the European Green Deal (EGD)—the newest strategy of economic growth in European Union (EU). In the CE, the raw materials that can be recovered from various waste streams play a key role, therefore, recommendations for their management were developed, both at the European and national level. In Poland, the raw material recovery sector is one of the strategic sectors (key industries) described in several documents determining the further directions of economic growth in the country. This paper presents the revision of these documents and guidelines for the implementation of the CE in the raw material recovery sector. The scope of the paper also includes a description of the current state of the raw materials recovery sector and its return, supported by the analysis of drivers and barriers in its further development. In previous years, a dynamic development of the recovery industry was observed, followed by formation of new companies (dominated by medium-sized companies comprising ~50% of entities in the sector) and increasing amount of people employed (~70,700 people). A growing level of processing of secondary raw materials with the use of more and more innovative technologies has been observed, which could contribute to the improvement of the level of innovation of the national economy. There also some barriers, such as the lack of sufficiently developed industrial symbiosis (IS) and long-term support for the implementation of recovery technologies. The growing ecological awareness of society and enterprises themselves, as well as the growing belief in the importance of resource recovery for environmental protection, suggest the possibility of subsequent development of the raw materials recovery sector. Further actions in this field will be taken to strengthen the implementation of the CE in the country. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Approaches for Enterprise Sustainability)

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20 pages, 978 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Employees’ Trust in Artificial Intelligence in Companies: The Case of Energy and Chemical Industries in Poland

by Justyna Łapińska, Iwona Escher, Joanna Górka, Agata Sudolska and Paweł Brzustewicz

Energies 2021, 14(7), 1942; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14071942 - 1 Apr 2021

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 6160

Abstract

The use of artificial intelligence (AI) in companies is advancing rapidly. Consequently, multidisciplinary research on AI in business has developed dramatically during the last decade, moving from the focus on technological objectives towards an interest in human users’ perspective. In this article, we [...] Read more.

The use of artificial intelligence (AI) in companies is advancing rapidly. Consequently, multidisciplinary research on AI in business has developed dramatically during the last decade, moving from the focus on technological objectives towards an interest in human users’ perspective. In this article, we investigate the notion of employees’ trust in AI at the workplace (in the company), following a human-centered approach that considers AI integration in business from the employees’ perspective, taking into account the elements that facilitate human trust in AI. While employees’ trust in AI at the workplace seems critical, so far, few studies have systematically investigated its determinants. Therefore, this study is an attempt to fill the existing research gap. The research objective of the article is to examine links between employees’ trust in AI in the company and three other latent variables (general trust in technology, intra-organizational trust, and individual competence trust). A quantitative study conducted on a sample of 428 employees from companies of the energy and chemical industries in Poland allowed the hypotheses to be verified. The hypotheses were tested using structural equation modeling (SEM). The results indicate the existence of a positive relationship between general trust in technology and employees’ trust in AI in the company as well as between intra-organizational trust and employees’ trust in AI in the company in the surveyed firms. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Approaches for Enterprise Sustainability)

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28 pages, 3104 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of COVID19 on Operational Activities of Manufacturing Organizations—A Case Study and Industry 4.0-Based Survive-Stabilise-Sustainability (3S) Framework

by Mutahhar A. Dar, Bartlomiej Gladysz and Aleksander Buczacki

Energies 2021, 14(7), 1900; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14071900 - 30 Mar 2021

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 5624

Abstract

The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic is spreading rapidly and threatening lives all over the globe. Due to the pandemic, economies all over the world are in deep distress due to disruption in work and operations across all sectors. The present case study was performed for [...] Read more.

The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic is spreading rapidly and threatening lives all over the globe. Due to the pandemic, economies all over the world are in deep distress due to disruption in work and operations across all sectors. The present case study was performed for a private Indian manufacturing company that has been affected to a great extent due to this pandemic, as India has the second highest number of SARS-CoV-2 cases after the USA. The deeply troubled company’s current predicament is very complex, as various factors are responsible for the crisis. In order to restore the company back to normal functioning, these factors were studied and evaluated. A diagnostic survey was conducted to obtain data about current working conditions of company. Data from the survey were analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively to identify and evaluate the disruptive factors. Based on this analysis, problems in operational activities were identified and appropriate improvement actions (best practices) were proposed. Furthermore, the proposed improvement actions were assessed from a sustainability perspective to check their feasibility. The best practices framework was generalized to a three-step continuous improvement framework oriented around preparedness for future pandemic-like disruptions. The proposed framework may constitute an indication and set of best practices for consideration by other manufacturing companies that find themselves in a similar situation to the analyzed case study. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Approaches for Enterprise Sustainability)

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13 pages, 302 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of Management Tools Supporting Industry 4.0 on the Importance of CSR during COVID-19. Generation Z

by Szymon Cyfert, Waldemar Glabiszewski and Maciej Zastempowski

Energies 2021, 14(6), 1642; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14061642 - 16 Mar 2021

Cited by 30 | Viewed by 7264

Abstract

Taking into account the impact of the COVID-19 and adopting the assessment optics of students from Generation Z currently entering the labor market, we have made the aim of this article to provide better insight into the relationship between Industry 4.0 and corporate [...] Read more.

Taking into account the impact of the COVID-19 and adopting the assessment optics of students from Generation Z currently entering the labor market, we have made the aim of this article to provide better insight into the relationship between Industry 4.0 and corporate social responsibility. The survey was conducted in the form of an online survey in two leading universities in Poland in the field of economic education. 646 students took part in the survey. The data were analyzed using logit regression models. The results of the study suggest that the increase in the use of management solutions supporting Industry 4.0 in the wake of the COVID-19 crisis will increase the importance of the economic, social, and environmental dimensions of corporate social responsibility. Pointing to the forecasted increase importance of corporate social responsibility, we suggest linking management solutions supporting Industry 4.0 with corporate social responsibility. However, we also draw attention to the impact of individual management solutions supporting Industry 4.0 on specific Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) dimensions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Approaches for Enterprise Sustainability)

27 pages, 1427 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Smart Organizations as a Source of Competitiveness and Sustainable Development in the Age of Industry 4.0: Integration of Micro and Macro Perspective

by Anna Adamik and Dorota Sikora-Fernandez

Energies 2021, 14(6), 1572; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14061572 - 12 Mar 2021

Cited by 32 | Viewed by 5971

Abstract

The Industry 4.0 Revolution that is taking place nowadays means that organizations face not only new opportunities, but also challenges related to the identification of their role in creating a modern smart world. The economies of many countries are under the significant and [...] Read more.

The Industry 4.0 Revolution that is taking place nowadays means that organizations face not only new opportunities, but also challenges related to the identification of their role in creating a modern smart world. The economies of many countries are under the significant and growing influence of various types of organizations, not only strong international business corporations, but also, more and more often, smaller but intelligent ones called smart organizations IR 4.0. Due to their unique characteristics, intelligent organizations are better able than others to cope with technological breakthroughs, social, and cultural problems as well as to compete effectively and develop in an environmentally sustainable way. With their growing potential, they are strengthening the economies of their countries of origin and daily operation. Their growing role is also visible in the processes of shaping competitiveness and achieving the sustainable development objectives of the European Union (EU). The countries that are able to organize an environment on their territory that is conducive to the smart organization’s development are clear examples not only of a high market competitiveness, but also of a dynamically growing commitment to the effective implementation of the challenges associated with the 17 objectives of sustainable development of the contemporary EU, according to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. This allows for a conclusion that the identification of the key factors for a smart organization’s development makes it possible to monitor and provide targeted support for the development not only of these organizations, but also for the competitiveness and sustainability of individual countries, both from the EU and other regions of the world. In light of the above, the aim of this article is therefore to propose an effective tool to monitor the use of power of smart organizations in the processes of building the competitiveness and sustainable development of countries, with particular reference to the EU. To achieve this objective, we constructed a synthetic power of smart organizations index (PSOI) based on previously collected data from EUROSTAT. This tool allows for the integration of micro (organization level) and macro (country level) economic aspects into a single construct. Based on the analysis of its results, countries wishing to actively engage in the development of their own and the EU’s smartness and sustainability can be offered several more or less intense navigation paths to market success, based on the development of smart organizations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Approaches for Enterprise Sustainability)

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12 pages, 816 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Corporate Social Responsibility and Profitability: The Moderating Role of Firm Type in Chinese Appliance Listed Companies

by Xiaojuan Wu, Dana Dluhošová and Zdeněk Zmeškal

Energies 2021, 14(1), 227; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14010227 - 4 Jan 2021

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 4241

Abstract

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) is among the dominant multi-attribute methods of comprehensively representing the competitiveness of a company. A large number of studies have commonly found that profitability can positively affect CSR. However, positivity depends on firm type and the economy, and there [...] Read more.

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) is among the dominant multi-attribute methods of comprehensively representing the competitiveness of a company. A large number of studies have commonly found that profitability can positively affect CSR. However, positivity depends on firm type and the economy, and there is little research in this area. The objective of this paper is to study and verify whether the profitability of different types of companies has a comparable impact on CSR measures in Chinese appliance listed companies. A specific multi-attribute AHP (analytic hierarchy process) model was proposed to determine the CSR for the conditions of Chines appliance listed companies. The interactive regression model serves to analyse the impact of a firm type. The specific multi-attribute AHP model was verified as a suitable tool for CSR evaluation of Chines appliance listed companies. The regression results show that for family firms, the impact of profitability on CSR is significant, while for non-family firms, the impact was not confirmed. Thus, evidence that family firms fulfil better CSR than non-family firms in the investigated Chinese sector is offered. The findings provide proof that it is essential to distinguish firm types, and the generalised findings are simplified and not valid. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Approaches for Enterprise Sustainability)

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14 pages, 1139 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Time Series Sustainability Assessment of a Partial Energy Portfolio Transition

by Jacob Hale and Suzanna Long

Energies 2021, 14(1), 141; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14010141 - 29 Dec 2020

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 1999

Abstract

Energy portfolios are overwhelmingly dependent on fossil fuel resources that perpetuate the consequences associated with climate change. Therefore, it is imperative to transition to more renewable alternatives to limit further harm to the environment. This study presents a univariate time series prediction model [...] Read more.

Energy portfolios are overwhelmingly dependent on fossil fuel resources that perpetuate the consequences associated with climate change. Therefore, it is imperative to transition to more renewable alternatives to limit further harm to the environment. This study presents a univariate time series prediction model that evaluates sustainability outcomes of partial energy transitions. Future electricity generation at the state-level is predicted using exponential smoothing and autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA). The best prediction results are then used as an input for a sustainability assessment of a proposed transition by calculating carbon, water, land, and cost footprints. Missouri, USA was selected as a model testbed due to its dependence on coal. Of the time series methods, ARIMA exhibited the best performance and was used to predict annual electricity generation over a 10-year period. The proposed transition consisted of a one-percent annual decrease of coal’s portfolio share to be replaced with an equal share of solar and wind supply. The sustainability outcomes of the transition demonstrate decreases in carbon and water footprints but increases in land and cost footprints. Decision makers can use the results presented here to better inform strategic provisioning of critical resources in the context of proposed energy transitions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Approaches for Enterprise Sustainability)

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20 pages, 6039 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Predictive Models of Accidents at Work in the Steel Sector as a Framework for Sustainable Safety

by Tomasz Małysa and Bożena Gajdzik

Energies 2021, 14(1), 129; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14010129 - 29 Dec 2020

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2963

Abstract

Work safety can be a component of the broadly understood sustainable enterprise approach that goes beyond the idea of sustainable development. Sustainability in an unpredictable and turbulent environment has many constellations, many aspects and many fields of the enterprise’s activity and it complements [...] Read more.

Work safety can be a component of the broadly understood sustainable enterprise approach that goes beyond the idea of sustainable development. Sustainability in an unpredictable and turbulent environment has many constellations, many aspects and many fields of the enterprise’s activity and it complements the rationality of the business. The aim is to understand the sustainability of safety, because this is the term we have adopted for rationality in occupational safety management, in the context of the analysis of work accidents in the Polish steel industry, with particular emphasis on the methodology of forecast assessment in the studied area, proposed by us. The realized forecasts were used for the creation of a combined model which formed the basis for formulating conclusions from the analysis. The publication presents the modeling of the victims of work accidents in the steel sector in Poland. Based on the research of the forecasts obtained, a downward trend is recorded in the number of persons injured in accidents at work in the steel sector. In order to select the optimal model, it was proposed to set combined forecasts. In order to select the optimal model, it was proposed to set combined forecasts. The obtained values of ex-ante forecasts in the combined model also confirmed the forecasted trends determined within the adaptation models. The study is a proposal to extend the combined forecasting methods used to assess occupational safety. We consciously chose to include the methodology of combined forecasting of the number of people injured in accidents in the interpretation of sustainability, because we see the possibility of interpreting accident rates in sustainable business in the future. In the publication, we propose the framework of the sustainable safety model as an element of work safety management in an enterprise. We are trying to answer the question about the place of accident prediction in sustainable safety. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Approaches for Enterprise Sustainability)

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30 pages, 22891 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainable Business Models: A Bibliometric Performance Analysis

by Magdalena Marczewska and Mariusz Kostrzewski

Energies 2020, 13(22), 6062; https://doi.org/10.3390/en13226062 - 19 Nov 2020

Cited by 38 | Viewed by 5172

Abstract

Sustainable business models have become a phenomenon of global interest. Since the beginning of the 21st century, companies have sought to shift from traditional business models towards sustainable ones in order to leverage their sustainable performance and increase their competitive advantage. The aim [...] Read more.

Sustainable business models have become a phenomenon of global interest. Since the beginning of the 21st century, companies have sought to shift from traditional business models towards sustainable ones in order to leverage their sustainable performance and increase their competitive advantage. The aim of this paper is to provide an extensive overview of the academic research on sustainable business models with the focus on inquiry of main trends related to business and economics studies and identification of future research directions. This paper reviews existing literature on sustainable business models in order to map this research stream and identify the most substantial contributors to the advances of research in this field. It contributes to the existing body of knowledge on sustainable business models by: (1) describing the most influential and high-impact researchers/authors, journals, and papers; (2) highlighting main and most important research trends related to sustainable business models in studies on business and economics; and (3) identifying future research agendas in investigating sustainable business models from business and economics perspectives. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Approaches for Enterprise Sustainability)

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19 pages, 4276 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Personalization of Products in the Industry 4.0 Concept and Its Impact on Achieving a Higher Level of Sustainable Consumption

by Sebastian Saniuk, Sandra Grabowska and Bożena Gajdzik

Energies 2020, 13(22), 5895; https://doi.org/10.3390/en13225895 - 12 Nov 2020

Cited by 48 | Viewed by 6448

Abstract

Sustainability is among the most important directions in global development. The challenge today is to reconcile the fastest possible economic growth and the pursuit of prosperity with concern for the environment. One of the important problems of modern economies and societies is to [...] Read more.

Sustainability is among the most important directions in global development. The challenge today is to reconcile the fastest possible economic growth and the pursuit of prosperity with concern for the environment. One of the important problems of modern economies and societies is to reduce overall consumption and implement new patterns of sustainable consumption and production. The main aim of this article was to analyze consumer preferences in terms of purchasing personalized production offered by implementing the concept of Industry 4.0 and ensuring sustainable consumption and production (SCP). Based on the analysis of the literature and the results of our own research, an attempt was made to estimate the impact of personalized production offered by the Industry 4.0 concept on SCP and thus the sustainable development of the economy. This article presents the results of a survey conducted on a selected group of consumers, focusing on learning about expectations, consumer preferences for personalized products and conscious consumption, and the results of a survey conducted using the Servqual method, determining the level of customer satisfaction with the purchase of personalized products. The most important achievement was to demonstrate a high level of consumer satisfaction with buying personalized products and the positive impact of personalized production on sustainable consumption. At the same time, the importance of developing the Industry 4.0 concept for supporting sustainable consumption-oriented consumer behavior is emphasized. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Approaches for Enterprise Sustainability)

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20 pages, 1435 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Review of Key Performance Indicators for Process Monitoring in the Mining Industry

by Paulina Gackowiec, Marta Podobińska-Staniec, Edyta Brzychczy, Christopher Kühlbach and Toyga Özver

Energies 2020, 13(19), 5169; https://doi.org/10.3390/en13195169 - 4 Oct 2020

Cited by 29 | Viewed by 10312

Abstract

The sustainable development of an organisation requires a holistic approach to the evaluation of an enterprise’s goals and activities. The essential means enabling an organisation to achieve goals are business processes. Properly managed, business processes are a source of revenue and become an [...] Read more.

The sustainable development of an organisation requires a holistic approach to the evaluation of an enterprise’s goals and activities. The essential means enabling an organisation to achieve goals are business processes. Properly managed, business processes are a source of revenue and become an implementation of business strategy. The critical elements in process management in an enterprise are process monitoring and control. It is therefore essential to identify the Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) that are relevant to the analysed processes. Process monitoring can be performed at various levels of management, as well as from different perspectives: operational, financial, security, or maintenance. Some of the indicators known from other fields (such as personnel management, finance, or lean manufacturing) can be used in mining. However, the operational mining processes require a definition of specific indicators, especially in the context of increasing the productivity of mining machines and the possibility of using sensor data from machines and devices. The article presents a list of efficiency indicators adjusted to the specifics and particular needs of the mining industry resulting from the Industry 4.0 concept, as well as sustainable business performance. Using the conducted research and analysis, a list of indicators has been developed concerning person groups, which may serve as a benchmark for mining industry entities. The presented proposal is a result of work conducted in the SmartHUB project, which aims to create an Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) platform that will support process management in the mining industry. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Approaches for Enterprise Sustainability)

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20 pages, 2412 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Differentiation of the Level of Sustainable Development of Energy Markets in the European Union Countries

by Anna Bluszcz and Anna Manowska

Energies 2020, 13(18), 4882; https://doi.org/10.3390/en13184882 - 17 Sep 2020

Cited by 29 | Viewed by 2860

Abstract

The economic development of the EU’s countries depends on stable and permanent access to various energy sources. The integration of European energy markets is a long-term process. Each member country has a different energy balance, energy resources and electricity generation technologies. Therefore, comparing [...] Read more.

The economic development of the EU’s countries depends on stable and permanent access to various energy sources. The integration of European energy markets is a long-term process. Each member country has a different energy balance, energy resources and electricity generation technologies. Therefore, comparing Member States with one another is a complex task. The article deals with organizing the set of objects in multidimensional spaces of variables from the point of view of a certain characteristics that cannot be measured in a simple way, i.e., the relative level of the development of energy markets. The following diagnostic variables were adopted for the analysis: consumption of electric energy generated from renewables per capita (TWH/person), hard coal consumption (million tons/person), greenhouse gas emissions per capita, available for final consumption gigawatt-hour per person, final energy consumption thousand tons of oil equivalent (TOE) per person, petroleum available for final consumption (gigawatt-hour), natural gas (terajoule gross calorific value-GCV) per person, energy intensity of GDP (kilograms of oil equivalent (KGOE) per thousand euro, import dependency %. The article draws upon the cluster analysis, which uses the methods and techniques that enable to extract such objects (countries) from the data set, which would be similar to each other and combine them into groups. The purpose of the article is to examine and discus the diversity of Member States on the level of development of energy markets taking into account the specific situation of Poland. The presented model has the potential to be used at the level of enterprises from various industries to evaluate the level of sustainable development. The algorithm modification will only require the selection of available diagnostic variables describing the given enterprise. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Approaches for Enterprise Sustainability)

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20 pages, 422 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Resonance of Investments in Renewable Energy Sources in Industrial Enterprises in the Food Industry

by Katarzyna Liczmańska-Kopcewicz, Paula Pypłacz and Agnieszka Wiśniewska

Energies 2020, 13(17), 4285; https://doi.org/10.3390/en13174285 - 19 Aug 2020

Cited by 26 | Viewed by 3568

Abstract

Investments in renewable energy sources are an important direction in the development of modern economies. Motivating organizations to include appropriate investments in their development strategies becomes an essential issue. It seems clear that organizations need to see the long-term benefits of such investments [...] Read more.

Investments in renewable energy sources are an important direction in the development of modern economies. Motivating organizations to include appropriate investments in their development strategies becomes an essential issue. It seems clear that organizations need to see the long-term benefits of such investments in order to follow this trend. This article presents a thesis that assumes that from the microeconomic perspective, such investments are conducive to the implementation of various goals of the organization, causing the phenomenon of resonance in spheres such as the implementation of the sustainable development strategy, the level of innovation in the organization, brand image, and brand equity. The survey method was carried out on a sample of 143 industrial companies in the food industry in order to verify the hypotheses based on previous examples. Among the most important findings, it should be noted that investments in renewable energy sources make a significant contribution to building the market position of enterprises, in particular, to the level of innovation, creating value in a sustainable enterprise, and achieving goals in the area of creating a positive brand image and brand equity. The findings show that investing in renewable energy is compatible with the organization’s different goals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Approaches for Enterprise Sustainability)

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27 pages, 4969 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainable Development and Industry 4.0: A Bibliometric Analysis Identifying Key Scientific Problems of the Sustainable Industry 4.0

by Bożena Gajdzik, Sandra Grabowska, Sebastian Saniuk and Tadeusz Wieczorek

Energies 2020, 13(16), 4254; https://doi.org/10.3390/en13164254 - 17 Aug 2020

Cited by 63 | Viewed by 5903

Abstract

The main aim of the manuscript is the identification of key research problems in the field of sustainable development, in the era of implementing the Industry 4.0 concept. The manuscript presents results of the bibliometric analysis in the subject: “Sustainable Industry 4.0”. The [...] Read more.

The main aim of the manuscript is the identification of key research problems in the field of sustainable development, in the era of implementing the Industry 4.0 concept. The manuscript presents results of the bibliometric analysis in the subject: “Sustainable Industry 4.0”. The bibliometric analysis was realized in three segments: Sustainability, Industry 4.0 and Sustainable Industry 4.0. In the analysis, the following databases were used: Web of Science (WoS), Scopus, Google Scholar. The main purpose of the analysis was to outline the dynamics of publications in the categories: citation, author, country, type document, science field, research area. The review of sources carried out in this way allowed us to identify key research areas and confirm the research thesis adopted in the manuscript. The research thesis: Sustainable Industry 4.0 allows the integration of the Industry 4.0 concept with sustainable development goals. The article is dedicated especially to scientists looking for still unsolved research problems in the implementation of sustainable Industry 4.0. Furthermore, the manuscript could be an inspiration for scientists, stakeholders, practitioners and governments to complete today’s knowledge about the problems of sustainability in Industry 4.0. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Approaches for Enterprise Sustainability)

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14 pages, 395 KiB

Open AccessCase Report

Digital Transformation of Energy Companies: A Colombian Case Study

by Sandra Giraldo, David la Rotta, César Nieto-Londoño, Rafael E. Vásquez and Ana Escudero-Atehortúa

Energies 2021, 14(9), 2523; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14092523 - 28 Apr 2021

Cited by 28 | Viewed by 5858

Abstract

The United Nations established 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and the fulfillment of the 7th, defined as “Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all”, requires energy industry transitions and digital transformations, which implies that diverse stakeholders need to move [...] Read more.

The United Nations established 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and the fulfillment of the 7th, defined as “Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all”, requires energy industry transitions and digital transformations, which implies that diverse stakeholders need to move fast to allow the growth of more flexible power systems. This paper contains the case report that addresses the commercial digital transformation process developed at AES Colombia, through the implementation of a modern platform based on specialized applications that use Industry 4.0 tools. The Chivor hydropower project, a 1000-MW powerplant that covers 6% of Colombia’s demand, which is owned by AES Colombia and constitutes its primary asset, is first described. Then, a description of Colombia’s complex market (energy matrix, trading and dispatch mechanisms, and future projects) is presented. Then, the methodology followed for the digital transformation process using modern tools is described. The project, conceived as a broad framework, comprises applications for the management of hydrological, operational, and market information, commercial information systems and platforms to facilitate consultation and analysis by different users. Such an innovative project in the Latin American context has been developed in order reduce risks and to contribute to a sustainable energy supply for the future. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Approaches for Enterprise Sustainability)

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