Affordable Energy Research Articles

Guyparkeria halophila: Novel cell platform for the efficient valorization of carbon dioxide and thiosulfate into ectoine

Utilizing carbon dioxide (CO2) for valuable chemical production is key to a circular economy. Current processes are costly due to limited microorganism use, low-value products, and the need for affordable energy. This study addresses these challenges by using industrial contaminants like thiosulfate (S2O32−) for CO2 conversion into ectoines. Ectoines, are important ingredients as pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. Here, six microbial genomes were identified as potential candidates to valorize CO2 and S2O32− into ectoine. After laboratory validation at 3 % NaCl, the fastest-growing strain, Guyparkeria halophila, was optimized at 6 %, 9 %, and 15 % NaCl, showing the highest specific ectoine contents (mgEct gbiomass−1) at 15 %. Batch bioreactors, combining optimal conditions, achieved maximum specific ectoine contents of 47 %. These results not only constitute the highest ectoine content so far reported by autotrophs and most of heterotrophs, but also the first proof of a novel valorization platform for CO2 and S2O32−, focused on pharmaceuticals production.

Advanced Fungal Biotechnologies in Accomplishing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): What Do We Know and What Comes Next?

The present era has witnessed an unprecedented scenario with extreme climate changes, depleting natural resources and rising global food demands and its widespread societal impact. From providing bio-based resources to fulfilling socio-economic necessities, tackling environmental challenges, and ecosystem restoration, microbes exist as integral members of the ecosystem and influence human lives. Microbes demonstrate remarkable potential to adapt and thrive in climatic variations and extreme niches and promote environmental sustainability. It is important to mention that advances in fungal biotechnologies have opened new avenues and significantly contributed to improving human lives through addressing socio-economic challenges. Microbe-based sustainable innovations would likely contribute to the United Nations sustainable development goals (SDGs) by providing affordable energy (use of agro-industrial waste by microbial conversions), reducing economic burdens/affordable living conditions (new opportunities by the creation of bio-based industries for a sustainable living), tackling climatic changes (use of sustainable alternative fuels for reducing carbon footprints), conserving marine life (production of microbe-based bioplastics for safer marine life) and poverty reduction (microbial products), among other microbe-mediated approaches. The article highlights the emerging trends and future directions into how fungal biotechnologies can provide feasible and sustainable solutions to achieve SDGs and address global issues.

Empirical analysis of solid biomass fuel and ill-health

The Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) seven highlights the need to ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all. Improving access to reliable and affordable modern energy for cooking have far-reaching benefits on human health and the environment. In most developing countries, the use of solid biomass fuel (SBF) for cooking is widespread. Using a nationally representative household-level data from Ghana and the biprobit model, this paper examines the relationship between SBF and ill-health. The first stage results show that the adoption of SBF is significantly influenced by socio-economic factors, rental and dwelling status, food hardship, information about SBF, and geographical controls. The adoption of SBF for cooking increases the probability of a household reporting ill-health and frequently reporting ill-health by 25% each, respectively. The differential analysis indicates that charcoal has a moderate effect on ill-health relative to using wood as fuel for cooking. The findings of the study imply that households are more likely to improve their health with increasing affordability and use of clean cooking fuels. Government programs on the promotion of clean energy fuels must be intensified and make more accessible and affordable to households.

Urban Development and Sustainable Energy in EU Countries

Cities are considered one of the most important elements in achieving the SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals) and are specifically addressed by SDG11, which identifies actions to ensure safe, resilient and sustainable urban living for residents. Sustainable energy is of key importance to the challenges facing the modern world, hence cities should be designed and built to use as little energy as possible, which translates into the implementation of SDG7 (Affordable and Clean Energy). The sustainable goals are interrelated, so it is crucial to study their interaction. This study formulated the following research objectives: to assess changes in the degree of SDG achievement in EU countries and to investigate interactions between SDGs, in particular between SDG11 and SDG7. Using the TOPSIS method for the years 2015 and 2021, it was found that there are more frequent synergies between the SDGs and SDG11. The top rankings in terms of SDG11 implementation were Sweden, Denmark, Finland and Austria, while the last positions were held by Romania, Bulgaria and Poland. In 2021, the relationship between the positions of countries in terms of SDG11 and SDG7 implementation rates, compared to 2015, increased significantly, indicating that action is being taken to implement green energy solutions.

Demonstration of the potential use of off-grid renewable energy in agricultural production in rural Uganda

Background As the world's consciousness of the threats posed by the current state of climate change and its related consequences on food security increase, several nations, including Uganda, have modified their long-term plans for the shift to low-carbon economies and provision of affordable off-grid renewable energy (RE) sources especially in rural areas. Methods Through a citizen science initiative, this study examined the adoption of off-grid renewable energy in agricultural production in rural Uganda, with a focus on solar, charcoal briquettes, and biogas technologies. The study employed a cross-sectional study design and combined qualitative and quantitative data collection methods. Data were collected through structured interviews with 1,068 households and 20 key informants. An in-depth review of case studies of RE use in agriculture was also done. Results All respondents embraced at least one RE technology, predominantly solar (92% of respondents), highlighting its widespread adoption. Women exhibited higher adoption rates, particularly in solar and charcoal briquettes usage. The diverse applications of RE in agriculture were evident ranging from solar-powered irrigation, drying of produce, brooding, to biogas digesters for fertilizer production. Benefits associated with RE implementation were multifaceted, including time savings, enhanced health and safety, income generation, and environmental sustainability. Despite these advantages, barriers such as high initial costs and limited awareness persist. Conclusions This study highlights the significant potential of off-grid renewable energy in agricultural production in rural Uganda. Widespread adoption and scale-up of RE technologies requires strong collaborations between government, non-government organisations and private actors to build community awareness, train community resource persons on operation and management, and provide financing for the acquisition of RE technologies.

Determination of sustainable energy mix to ensure energy security in Italy amidst Russian-Ukraine crises

Energy security has become an important topic, especially after the recent Russian-Ukraine conflict. Amongst the European Union (EU) nations, Italy in particular has been the most affected by such energy crises. To address such a concern, this study aims to determine a sustainable energy mix for Italy to ensure affordable, clean, and reliable energy in the country. The existing energy mix consisting of seven energy alternatives are evaluated based on the metrics of technological, socio-political, economic, and environmental aspects. A fuzzy quantitative strategic decision-making approach known as the Fuzzy Strength, Weakness, Opportunity, and Threat (F-SWOT) tool is employed to materialize this goal. In the SWOT matrix, hydro and biopower have been placed in the first quadrant showcasing strengths and opportunities for its development in Italy. Moreover, solar and wind power have been placed in the second quadrant both showcasing considerable opportunities for its development, however face a few weaknesses as well. Moreover, geothermal and coal power have been placed in the third quadrant, both showcasing weaknesses and threats to the energy security of the country. Lastly, natural gas in the fourth quadrant showcases strengths but poses a substantial threat to the energy security of the country.

Dual activated carbon derived from Keekar leaves as an excellent symmetric supercapacitor material

Porous carbonaceous materials derived from biomass, which are both cost-effective and obtained from sustainable resources, have emerged as appealing electrode materials for energy storage devices. These materials have received great interest as active electrode materials due to their ample, low-cost, sustainable nature and excellent electrochemical stability. In the present work, porous activated carbon (AC) was synthesized from Keekar leaves by dual activation using H2SO4 and KOH. This Keekar leaves derived AC (KLAC) possesses a surface area of ~1677m2g−1 with a combination of micro and mesoporosity displaying a specific capacitance of 411F/g in 6 M KOH and 219.55F/g for 1 M H2SO4 electrolytic solution at a current density of 1 A/g. Further, the symmetric devices were fabricated using both aqueous (aq.) and polymer gel electrolytes for practical evaluation of the material. The aq. and gel device are capable of delivering a specific capacitance of 108.34 F/g and 88.45 F/g, respectively, at a current density of 0.5 A/g. The aq. device offers a maximum energy density of 33.85 Whkg−1 at a power density of 562.5 Wkg−1. The outstanding capacitance retention of 89.5 % is demonstrated by the aq. device at a higher scan rate of 20 A/g after continuous 10,000 charging-discharging cycles. Such high performance and stability make KLAC a potential candidate as an affordable and sustainable electrochemical energy storage application.

Numerical analysis on mechanical ventilation impact on indoor air quality in a basement

Indoor air quality (IAQ) in confined spaces like bank vaults and basements is influenced by complex factors such as building layout and HVAC systems. This study examines how mechanical ventilation impacts IAQ in a bank building's occupied basement vault, addressing significant challenges posed by pollutant exposure in these air-tight environments. This study advances safe IAQ in confined spaces, crucial for occupant health and safety, using CFD (ANSYS Fluent Workbench 16.0) and CONTAM 3.2 software for multi-zone ventilation and air quality analysis. It analysed three indoor pollutants: Radon (Rn), Carbon dioxide (CO2), and Particulate Matter (PM2.5), enhancing the reliability and applicability of the findings. The findings indicated that the simulated indoor pollutants concentrations did not exceed the indoor air quality guideline levels. The CFD simulations predicted average steady-state values of 27.2 Bq/m3 for Radon, 574.80 ppm for CO2, and 69.36 µg/m3 for PM2.5 in the basement. For different outdoor air floor rates, an optimal ventilation rate of 4.7 ACH and a cooling load of 17 kW were determined to maintain Radon concentrations below 15 Bq/m3. This provides a practical and actionable solution for maintaining safe IAQ in confined spaces, which is a significant step forward compared to similar studies. These results align with other experimental research, validating the use of numerical techniques in indoor air quality studies. By optimizing HVAC systems to maintain IAQ and minimize energy consumption, the study supports SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) by enhancing energy efficiency, SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) by reducing exposure to indoor pollutants, and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) by improving air quality management in confined spaces. The findings are particularly relevant for Africa, offering practical solutions, informing policy direction, and supporting the African Union's Agenda 2063 and SDGs 3, 7, and 11.

Sustainable development goal 12 and its synergies with other SDGs: identification of key research contributions and policy insights

The relationships of SDG 12 (responsible consumption and production) with other sustainable development goals (SDGs), both direct and indirect, necessitate a systematic analysis to understand its pivotal role in achieving other SDGs. This work focuses on a threefold investigation through a scientometric framework. Initially, the study sought to map and analyze the naturally formed linkages between SDG 12 and other SDGs by examining the literature specifically devoted to SDG 12, thereby revealing the SDGs that are strongly linked to SDG 12. The subsequent phase of the investigation identified prominent topics related to SDG 12 that require detailed exploration. Finally, the selected topics are mined through a methodical approach termed flow vergence gradient analysis, allowing for the revelation of significant contributions within each topic. Through the analysis of the SDG linkage map, SDG 13 (climate action), SDG 7 (affordable and clean energy), SDG 11 (sustainable cities and communities), and SDG 15 (life on land), among others, were recognized as closely linked to SDG 12. Following this identification, five major topics—Industrial Symbiosis, Electronic waste, Carbon emissions, Life Cycle Assessment, and Green products—were deemed suitable for comprehensive mining to extract pivotal contributions. As policy recommendations, adopting a multifaceted approach to e-waste management and sustainable practices is imperative. Implementing consumption-based accounting (CBA) to achieve SDG 12 holistically will be useful. Businesses must align with circular economy principles, minimize hazardous materials, and adhere to low-emission, green supply chain practices. The emphasis is also on the need for proactive R&D collaboration with academia to meet SDG 12 targets, alongside engaging in community awareness through corporate social responsibility initiatives.

The political economy of mini-grid electricity development and innovation in Kenya

Accessible and affordable energy services are a prerequisite for socioeconomic growth and poverty reduction. Yet it is estimated that 600 million people in sub-Saharan Africa will not have access to electricity in 2030. Recent research suggests that universal access to electricity will be achieved through a mix of centralized and decentralized systems and that the diffusion of these technologies is a socio-technical process involving multiple actors. These actors include firms, networks, energy users, and government agencies that interact within a political landscape to deliver innovation within energy service systems. Thus, factors related to the political economy can impact the process of innovation and warrant analysis. This study aims to provide an analysis of the political economy factors that can influence the emergence of mini grid electricity development in the African context exemplified in Kenya as a case study. The study uses the Technology Innovation Systems (TIS) lens as an analytical framework to provide a critical analysis of how political economy factors have influenced the development of mini grid electricity in Kenya. The result shows that despite the presence of some favorable conditions for innovation, political economy factors significantly impede the deployment of mini grids in Kenya. Power and vested interests have created negative competition between public and private developers, limiting knowledge and information diffusion between actors and stalling mini grid developments where they are most needed.

Probabilistic model for fatigue damage estimation of wind turbines with hidden markov model and neural network

The growing demand for sustainable and affordable energy sources has led to rapid development in wind energy systems. Ensuring the long-term performance and reliability of wind turbines requires accurate estimation of fatigue damage under diverse environmental conditions. By incorporating probabilistic methods, this paper presents a comprehensive framework for long-term fatigue damage evaluation for wind turbines with high accuracy and efficiency. The proposed framework adopts the multivariate kernel density estimation to construct the high-dimensional joint probability distribution of environmental variables. A hidden Markov model serves as the driver to build the connection between historical records and future events. The short-term fatigue damage is estimated by the deep neural network based on future environmental parameters. The long-term fatigue damage is then achieved by accumulating the short-term fatigue damage evaluations with sufficient event instances. To demonstrate the applicability and effectiveness of the proposed framework, a case study is conducted with a wind turbine in the North Sea region. The fatigue damage analysis results highlight the necessity of regular inspections and maintenance for wind turbines to ensure their long-term service life and optimal performance. The framework is capable of considering a wide range of environmental factors and accounting for the inherent uncertainties and stochastic nature, providing a robust and comprehensive approach for estimating fatigue damage of wind turbines as well as other structures under long-term environmental conditions.

Evaluation of the environmental and economic scope of an electrocoagulation process for the treatment of wastewater from the instant coffee industry

AbstractIn this study, an industrial wastewater from instant coffee production was treated by electrocoagulation (EC). The effect of various EC operating parameters, such as electrode type, current density, support electrolyte concentration and stirring velocity, were investigated to determine the optimal operating EC conditions. The scope of electrocoagulation (EC) was assessed, in environmental and economic terms, for the treatment of industrial wastewater originated from the production of instant coffee. The evaluation included the effect of EC operating factors (electrode type, current density, supporting electrolyte concentration and stirring velocity) on Color removal, COD and TOC degradation, toxicity, molecular weight distribution, as well as the total operating cost. The following optimal operating conditions were established through a series of preliminary experiments, a Box-Behnken design of experiments, Response Surface Methodology application, and multi-objective optimization analysis: the pair of Fe (anode)-stainless steel (cathode) electrodes, supporting electrolyte = 1.78 g of NaCl/L; current density = 150 A/m2; electrode gap = 3 mm; stirring velocity = 350 RPM; and pH0 = 4.7 (that of raw industrial effluent). Finally, the kinetic study allowed defining the electrolysis operation time of ca. 180 min required to comply with the maximum permissible discharge limits for the production of instant coffee the discharge of soluble coffee effluents, in terms of COD concentration, established by current Colombian legislation. The EC reached ca. 97% decolorization, as well as 72% and 65% of COD and TOC removal degradation, respectively, with total operating costs of 6.26 USD/m3. This yielded an oxidized (COS = 2.87), biocompatible (BOD5/COD = 0.437) and non-toxic effluent, free of contaminants with molecular weight > 30 kDa. The EC appeared as an effective alternative for the treatment of industrial wastewater from the production of instant coffee within the framework of different Sustainable Development Goals (number 6 (Clean water and sanitation), number 7 (Clean and affordable energy), number 9 (Industry, innovation and infrastructure) and 13 (Climate action)).

Biomass-Solar Energy: A Comprehensive Review of Sustainable Energy Generation

India is the world's most populous country and plays a crucial role in achieving the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals by 2030. SDG No. 7 (affordable and clean energy) and climate change reduction goals are essential for sustainable development. This review discusses clean energy potential, obstacles and stimulants, and renewable energy policies in India, focusing on solar and biomass resources. With biomass resources, the nation can generate 130 million tonnes of oil equivalent annually, and it can generate 5,000 trillion kWh of solar energy annually. For the production of renewable energy, biomass resources such as Jatropha, sweet sorghum, cassava, rice, coconut, and agricultural leftovers can be employed. The purpose of this review is to highlight the benefits of using bioenergy to achieve a sustainable energy future through financial incentives, enhanced research, public awareness, social amenities, strategic replenishment, and productive intergovernmental collaborations. Solar thermal and photovoltaic systems offer great possibilities for grid-connected, off-grid, and hybrid installations. Site-specific considerations such as incentives, financing, research, public awareness, government regulations, and private investments influence the techno-economic viability and environmental relevance of solar power and bioenergy for India's sustainable development.

A Systems Perspective on the Public Perception of Wind Power in Norway

AbstractThe Sustainable Development Goals, a set of ambitious targets embraced by United Nations member states, are designed to meet global challenges head‐on while shaping a sustainable future. Of these, Goal 7, in particular, focuses on the critical need for affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all. Wind energy holds a significant potential in fulfilling Goal 7 of the sustainable development goals. In Norway, there exists a unique scenario, where nearly 98% of electricity is generated from renewable resources. However, without a subsequent increase in power production, a deficit in power is projected by 2027 according to a short‐term market analysis by Statnett. To prevent this, it is imperative to increase the production of electricity from wind. However, in recent years, there has been a significant rise in opposition towards wind power projects in Norway. Some of the wind power projects have even been put on hold because of the increase in protests. In light of this, we apply systems thinking methodologies to improve our understanding of this complex problem. Initially, we identify the stakeholders in our system of interest and categorize them through stakeholder salience analysis framework. Then, we developed a systemigram to graphically represent the system of interest. Finally, we carry out causal loop analysis to find causal loops in our system of interest. Our primary focus with this work is to better understand the factors shaping public perception of wind power projects in Norway. By gaining a deeper understanding about the factors influencing public perception of wind power projects in Norway, we aim to find better solutions to improve the social acceptance of these initiatives in Norway in future works.

Aligning building information modeling and prefabricated construction with sustainable development goals: A framework for sustainable urbanization

Given its large environmental footprint and the urgent need for more efficient and sustainable practices, sustainability in the construction industry has never been more urgent. This paper explores the integration of building Information Modelling (BIM) and prefabricated building (PC) as a transformative approach to aligning the construction sector with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGS), Special attention is given to SDG 9 (industry, innovation and infrastructure), SDG 11 (Sustainable cities and communities), SDG 12 (responsible consumption and production), SDG 13 (climate action) and SDG 7 (affordable clean energy). Through the lens of BIM and PC, the study illustrates how these technologies can significantly reduce waste, optimize resource use, and contribute to the construction of energy-efficient buildings, thereby mitigating the environmental impact of urban development. Enhanced stakeholder collaboration and information sharing facilitated by BIM was highlighted as a key factor in integrating community needs and environmental considerations into project planning and execution. This paper argues that the strategic adoption of BIM and PC not only promises to revolutionize construction practices by increasing efficiency and reducing costs, but also plays a vital role in the global pursuit of sustainability. Through a comprehensive analysis of the benefits and challenges associated with BIM and PC integration, this study highlights the importance of continuous technological progress, adaptation to different global environments, and alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals as important steps towards achieving sustainable urbanization.

The nexus of poverty energy in China's industrial productive efficiency and energy transition in digital economy

This research explores the relationship between energy poverty, industrial efficiency, and the energy transition within China's digital economy from 2010 to 2022, spanning 30 provinces. Addressing the significant issue of energy poverty, where many lack access to affordable and reliable energy, the study seeks to understand its impact on industrial productivity and the broader imperative of energy transition in the face of rapid digitalization in China. Using panel data analysis, the research examines how energy poverty affects industrial production efficiency and evaluates its influence on China's ability to shift to cleaner energy sources within the digital economic framework. Findings highlight a complex interplay between energy poverty, industrial efficiency, and energy transition. It is revealed that energy poverty significantly impedes industrial productivity, with notable differences across provinces. Furthermore, the study finds a positive link between industrial efficiency and the speed of energy transition, indicating that enhancing industrial efficiency can aid in a smoother shift to cleaner energy sources. The digital economy is identified as a crucial factor in this process, providing innovative solutions to reduce energy poverty, improve productive efficiency, and accelerate the energy transition. The study emphasizes the importance of integrated strategies to tackle energy poverty, enhance industrial efficiency, and support the energy transition, particularly through the utilization of digital economy tools.

A proposed quality control process for front-end planning to minimize risk of field change orders in underground electrical construction

Controlling capital costs and cost overruns due to construction field change orders (FCOs) is essential for the electric power industry to provide affordable energy services. Conversion from overhead to underground systems due to security and climate change factors will increase the risk of FCOs due to site conditions. The failure in collaboration by front-end planning (FEP) teams can increase risk of FCOs due to missing scopes, errors in design, lack of existing field condition evaluation, constraints on the project schedule, or unexpected field conditions, among other causes. This study involved development of a quality control process that enables members of the FEP team to vote their confidence levels about risk control of FCOs before proceeding to final design. The proposed process utilized Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) methodologies to distribute the weights of stakeholder votes based on responsibilities for each category of FCOs to obtain an integrated metric of FEP team confidence. Data from an operational electric power utility was used to provide a case scenario approach and to illustrate the method. Three actual projects were analyzed to assess how well the process would have worked for them. The novelty of the proposed model is to enhance the effectiveness of collaborative working relationships across teams during the FEP process and to provide a quality control metric to capture risk of FCOs in the early phase to minimize cost overruns in the project execution phase.

Affordable Energy for all: An Imperative for a Just Energy Transition [Editor’s Voice

Affordable Energy for all: An Imperative for a Just Energy Transition [Editor’s Voice

Green horizons: Enabling the energy transition through climate change policies

In response to the goals set by the COP21 Summit, the challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, and the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, this study aims to develop an effective policy framework to support the transition to sustainable energy. This framework considers key elements such as managing energy risks, leveraging green finance, navigating carbon markets, and evaluating three climate change policy indicators: the impact of climate change summits (CCS), government climate programs (CCGP), and climate change taxation (CCT). Utilizing the Quantile Vector Autoregressive (QVAR) approach and analyzing monthly data from the United States from August 1, 2014, to August 30, 2022, our research examines the influential role of these climate policy indicators. The results show that climate summits, governmental initiatives, and climate taxes are significant influencers, affecting both renewable and conventional energy sectors, carbon market movements, and green finance. The study underscores the importance of government initiatives and climate policies in driving the transition to renewable energy and fostering environmentally sustainable financial activities. Focused on advancing Sustainable Development Goals 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and 13 (Climate Action), this research contributes to shaping effective policy frameworks and enriching policy debates on sustainable energy transition.

Economic, equity, and political trade-offs in energy transition in irrigation in Bihar, India

Affordable and reliable energy is an important driver for improving access to irrigation in South Asia. Policies for improving electricity access and augmenting supply are likely to impact affordability and equity in irrigation access, especially in regions where agriculture is the mainstay of the economy. In this paper, we focus on the state of Bihar in eastern India to study trade-offs across economic, equity, and political dimensions of energy transition in irrigation. We argue that in the context of the nascent but steadily increasing solar-powered irrigation, a decentralised energy regime is techno-economically and socio-politically distinct from a conventional centralised grid supply. With different economic costs, governance issues, and varied incentives of stakeholders, there are significant trade-offs associated with the two pathways of energisation. We further assess the multidimensional trade-offs associated with the conventional ‘centralised’ and the modern ‘decentralised’ energy supply systems for irrigation to present a comprehensive understanding of the technical systems aiming to address economic development and livelihood security issues. We find that the life cycle costs (LCC) of centralised grid supply are not only higher than that of decentralised solar-powered irrigation (SIP) but also the LCC for grid supply has a high sensitivity to average cost to supply electricity (ACS). We also find that at lower pumping hours or lower average cost to supply (ACS), grid electricity is competitive compared to SIP, but with an increase in pumping hours, ACS or both, there is a considerable increase in the LCC of the grid connected pump, making SIP a more economical option. Furthermore, we augment the analysis using primary data on farmers to examine the economic, equity, and political trade-offs. By highlighting the complexities associated with the diffusion of decentralised energy solutions in irrigation, our findings provide useful insights for public policy related to energy transition in irrigation in India.