Energy Challenges Research Articles

Graphitic carbon nitride nanosheets decorated with HAp@Bi2S3 core–shell nanorods: Dual S-scheme 1D/2D heterojunction for environmental and hydrogen production solutions

By combining different semiconductors, scientists have developed innovative materials capable of converting solar energy into useful forms of energy or driving chemical reactions that clean up pollutants. These materials offer a promising path to combat global environmental and energy challenges. In this study, HAp@Bi2S3 core–shell structures were synthesized using a facile microemulsion technique, and then loaded onto graphitic carbon nitride via a hydrothermal method to create an advanced HAp@Bi2S3/g-C3N4 dual S-scheme heterojunction. The engineered heterojunction exhibited enhanced hydrogen production and visible light photocatalytic oxidation of metronidazole. The improved photocatalytic efficiency was attributed to the core–shell structure of HAp@Bi2S3 along with the formation of a dual S-scheme heterojunction in HAp@Bi2S3/g-C3N4. As a result, the novel dual S-scheme HAp@Bi2S3/g-C3N4 heterojunction demonstrated a significantly higher hydrogen production rate, ca. 20 times higher than that of hydroxyapatite (HAp), 11 times higher than Bi2S3, and 5 times higher than the HAp@Bi2S3. This research introduces a novel approach to crafting dual S-scheme heterojunctions based on Bi2S3, which enables swift electron transfer across heterojunction interfaces, thereby enlarged possibility windows to sustainable hydrogen production and wastewater remediation technologies.

Designing effective policy frameworks for the implementation of microgrids in developing countries: Opportunities, challenges and pathways to sustainable energy access

Designing effective policy frameworks for the implementation of microgrids in developing countries is crucial for advancing sustainable energy access. Microgrids offer a decentralized and resilient solution to energy challenges, particularly in regions with limited grid infrastructure. However, the successful deployment of microgrids requires a nuanced understanding of the opportunities, challenges, and pathways to integration within the unique contexts of developing nations. This study explores the key factors influencing the design and implementation of microgrid policies, including regulatory environments, financial incentives, and technological innovations. It highlights the potential of microgrids to enhance energy security, reduce carbon emissions, and support economic development. At the same time, it addresses the challenges related to financing, regulatory compliance, and the need for capacity-building in local communities. By analyzing case studies from various developing countries, the study identifies best practices and strategic recommendations for policymakers to create supportive frameworks that encourage the adoption of microgrids. The research underscores the importance of international collaboration, public-private partnerships, and adaptive policy mechanisms that can respond to the evolving needs of the energy sector. Ultimately, the study provides a roadmap for leveraging microgrids as a key component of sustainable energy strategies in developing countries, contributing to broader goals of energy equity, environmental sustainability, and economic resilience.

Laccase: A Green Biocatalyst Offers Immense Potential for Food Industrial and Biotechnological Applications.

Laccase, a multipurpose biocatalyst, is widely distributed across all kingdoms of life and plays a key role in essential biological processes such as lignin synthesis, degradation, and pigment formation. These functions are critical for fungal growth, plant-pathogen interactions, and maintenance of soil health. Due to its broad substrate specificity, multifunctional nature, and environmentally friendly characteristics, laccase is widely employed as a catalyst in various green chemistry initiatives. With its ability to oxidize a diverse range of phenolic and nonphenolic compounds, laccase has also been found to be useful as a food additive and for assessing food quality parameters. Ongoing advancements in research and technology are continually expanding the recognition of laccase's potential to address global environmental, health, and energy challenges. This review aims to provide critical insights into the applications of laccases in the biotechnology and food industry.

Navigating the Nexus of Artificial Intelligence and Renewable Energy for the Advancement of Sustainable Development Goals

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into renewable energy and sustainability represents a transformative approach toward achieving sustainable development goals (SDGs), especially SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), and SDG 13 (Climate Action). This study utilized the PRISMA framework to conduct a systematic review, focusing on the role of AI in renewable energy and sustainable development. This research utilized Scopus’s curated AI research area, which employs text mining to refine AI concepts into unique keywords. Further refinement via the All Science Journals Classification system and SDG-mapping filters narrowed the focus to publications relevant to renewable energy and SDGs. By employing the BERTopic modeling approach, our study identifies major topics, such as enhancing wind speed forecasts, performance analysis of fuel cells, energy management in elective vehicles, solar irradiance prediction, optimizing biofuel production, and improving energy efficiency in buildings. AI-driven models offer promising solutions to address the dynamic challenges of sustainable energy. Insights from academia-industry collaborations indicate that such partnerships significantly accelerate sustainable-energy transitions, with a focus on AI-driven energy storage, grid management, and renewable-energy forecasting. A global consensus on the critical role of investing in technology-driven solutions for energy sustainability was underscored by the relationship between funding data and global R&D spending patterns. This study serves as a resource for practitioners to harness AI technologies for renewable energy, where for example, AI’s accurate wind speed predictions can increase wind farm efficiency, highlighting the necessity of innovation and collaboration for sustainable development.

A review on the heterogeneous catalyst for effective conversion of lignocellulosic biomass

This study examines a review of the heterogeneous catalyst for effective conversion of lignocellulosic biomass. In light of the challenges posed by a growing global population and the depletion of natural resources, there is an urgent need for alternative solutions. One such solution is the conversion of biomass into fuel, which has the potential to be a cost-effective and widely available substitute for fossil fuels. Solid catalysis and a range of chemical conversions effectively convert biomass into value-added chemicals. A critical factor in this process is the development of a highly efficient and selective catalysis system, along with the necessary chemical reactions. This review provides a comprehensive discussion of the various sources of biomass and their essential chemical composition. It also covers the conversion of biomass into a value-added chemical and the indispensable role of catalysis in the conversion process. Additionally, the review explores various conversion techniques for transforming biomass into useful forms of energy, and highlights their potential applications. By providing a detailed analysis of this process, this review aims to contribute constructively to the ongoing search for sustainable and effective solutions to energy challenges.

Implementation of Solar PV Protection System in Indonesia: A Review

Conventional energy sources will run out if used continuously and damage the environment. Therefore, it is necessary to develop other energy sources that are safe, environmentally friendly, and inexhaustible known as renewable energy sources to meet energy needs in Indonesia. This article presents a review that discusses the protection of solar panels and PLTS. Solar panels are vulnerable to lightning strikes and other electrical disturbances, so an effective protection system is needed. This study uses a qualitative method through a literature study, reviewing various protection methods such as conventional and electrostatic lightning rods, good grounding systems, and overcurrent detection devices such as Solar Charge Controller (SCC) and Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT). In addition, battery protection with Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS) and Low Voltage Disconnected (LVD) is also discussed. Using Arduino Uno, ESP 32, and PLC, automation approaches offer real-time monitoring and control solutions for solar power plant performance. Innovations in the lightning protection zone concept and minimal quantity measurement schemes enable more cost-effective design of protection systems without reducing the level of protection. The results show that these various protection methods can provide effective and efficient protection for solar power plants, enabling optimization of system function and safety. In conclusion, the protection systems reviewed in this study offer a sustainable solution to Indonesia's energy challenges by utilizing the maximum potential of solar energy. The potential for further research is presented in this article to develop more efficient and effective protection methods.

Understanding future water-carbon-land coupled systems in the era of COP 27: The case of the Hanjiang river Basin, China

The 27th Conference of the Parties (COP 27) emphasized addressing this century's interconnected challenges of food, water, and energy. This study proposes a coupled ecosystem service and multi-scenario land-use change simulation model designed to investigate the future dynamics of water-carbon-land coupled systems in the Hanjiang River Basin (HJRB), the primary objective is to provide valuable insights that can inform strategic spatial management decisions, aligning with the ambitious objectives outlined in COP 27. Specifically, this study utilized the PLUS model, InVEST model, and redundancy analysis to comprehensively analyze the interplay between ecosystem services and land-use changes, with a specific focus on water, carbon, and land dynamics. The results showed that regardless of the simulated scenarios, there was a consistent pattern observed in the changes of land use types within the HJRB, with a decrease in farmland and an increase in forest. However, the water area showed an increasing trend in all scenarios, especially in the ecological land protection (ELP) and sustainable development scenarios. Furthermore, the ELP scenario effectively suppressed the expansion of building land and the erosion of ecological land. Ecosystem services under different scenarios showed similar spatial distribution patterns but presented varying degrees of change related to the impact of future land use and urban development on ecosystem services. The water yield (WY), carbon storage, and soil conservation in the upstream areas increased to varying degrees, while those in the downstream areas decreased. In conclusion, precipitation, land use/land cover change, DEM (Digital Elevation Model), and NDVI (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index) were the main driving factors affecting ecosystem services, with precipitation having the most significant and enduring impact on WY. This study supports the adoption of targeted spatial management measures to promote sustainable development and enhance human well-being.

Multi-scale retrofit pathways for improving building performance and energy equity across cities: A UBEM framework

Institutional inequality has created an environment in which our physical surroundings reflect racial and economic biases – causing inequitable thermal comfort and energy consumption across neighborhoods. Just as energy and thermal comfort challenges are unique to each climate and built environment, the solutions to address these issues should be optimized for their context. We introduce a novel integrated data-driven and building energy simulation method that incorporates urban context, satellite imagery, and socioeconomic data to analyze multi-scale retrofit scenarios across disparate communities. We apply this method to case studies in New York City and Los Angeles to analyze energy and thermal comfort inequities across distinct climate zones and urban morphologies. Through parametric analysis, we demonstrate the efficacy of multi-scale retrofits at improving building performance and reducing existing thermal inequities. Our research shows that retrofit effectiveness is influenced by the microclimatic changes induced by the urban context and existing infrastructural inequity. For example, instantaneous building cooling energy demand in a disadvantaged community of Los Angeles is reduced more due to window retrofits (around 30 kWh) than by a greenspace retrofit (around 3 kWh). Greenspace installation dissipates more heat overnight and in the early morning, whereas window retrofits reduce solar heat gain during the day, showing the different heat reduction pathways that retrofits can achieve. Although the window retrofits lead to an order of magnitude higher utility cost savings ($70 savings from windows vs $9 for greenspace and $12 for reduced cars), the district-scale retrofits show promising pathways for reducing the cost burden across all residents. We also analyze pathways for achieving city-specific CO2 reduction targets and find that building-level retrofits are most effective at meeting building performance standards (reducing CO2 by 40%), whereas district-level retrofits should be used to achieve city-scale climate goals because of the sequestered and abated emissions offered by these pathways. This generalizable modeling framework empowers policymakers, urban planners, and building owners around the world to analyze pathways for meeting their climate action plan goals by reducing extreme heat, reducing greenhouse emissions, and reducing energy cost burden while improving environmental justice in their cities.

Optimizing green hydrogen strategies in Tunisia: A combined SWOT-MCDM approach

Tunisia's rapid industrial expansion and population growth have created a pressing energy deficit, despite the country's significant, yet largely untapped, renewable energy potential. This study addressed this challenge by developing a comprehensive framework to identify and evaluate strategies for promoting green hydrogen production from renewable energy sources in Tunisia. A Strength, Weakness, Opportunity, and Threat (SWOT) analysis, incorporating social, economic, and environmental dimensions, was conducted to formulate potential solutions. The Step-wise Weight Assessment Ratio Analysis (SWARA) method facilitated the weighting of SWOT factors and sub-factors. Subsequently, a multi-criteria decision-making approach, employing the gray technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS-G) method (validated by gray additive ratio assessment (ARAS-G), gray complex proportional assessment (COPRAS-G), and gray multi-objective optimization by ratio analysis (MOORA-G), was used to rank the identified strategies.The SWOT analysis revealed "Strengths" as the most influential factor with a relative weight of 47.3 %, followed by "Weaknesses" (26.5 %), "Threats" (15.6 %), and "Opportunities" (10.6 %). Specifically, experts emphasized Tunisia's renewable energy potential (21.89 %) and robust power system (12.11 %) as primary strengths. Conversely, high investment costs (11.2 %) and political instability (7.77 %) posed substantial threat. Positive socio-economic impacts represented a key opportunity with a score of 5.2 %. As for the strategies prioritizing criteria, production cost ranked first with a score of 13.5 %, followed by environmental impact (12.8 %), renewable energy potential (12.0 %), and mitigation costs (11.3 %). The gray TOPSIS analysis identified two key strategies: leveraging Tunisia's wind and solar resources and fostering regional cooperation for project implementation. The robustness of these strategies is confirmed by the strong correlation between TOPSIS-G, ARAS-G, COPRAS-G, and MOORA-G results. Overall, the study provides a comprehensive roadmap and expert-informed decision-support tools, offering valuable insights for policymakers, investors, and stakeholders in Tunisia and other emerging economies facing similar energy challenges.

Harnessing Quantum Materials for Enhanced Energy Efficiency and Storage: A Comprehensive Study of Electronic Properties and Performance Optimization

This research explores the exciting potential of various quantum materials to enhance energy efficiency and storage capabilities, filling in a crucial gap in our understanding of their electronic properties and interactions. A major hurdle in this field is the lack of empirical data on key factors such as conductivity, charge mobility, and thermal stability—elements that are vital for optimizing the performance of these materials in energy applications. Our study aims to blend experimental data with computational simulations to create a robust framework for modelling how quantum materials behave under different conditions. This comprehensive approach helps lay a solid foundation for their practical use in energy technologies. We focus on an array of fascinating quantum materials, including topological insulators, transition metal dichalcogenides, and superconductors. To investigate these materials, we employ advanced techniques like scanning tunnelling microscopy and spectroscopy, which allow us to delve deep into their unique properties. While pursuing this research, we do encounter challenges. Variations in sample quality, environmental factors during experimentation, and the complexities of theoretical modelling can affect the consistency of our results and the interpretation of our data. Despite these obstacles, our findings suggest that certain quantum materials hold remarkable potential for enhancing energy storage and conversion systems through improved charge mobility and thermal stability. In fact, some materials have demonstrated conductivity levels that surpass those of traditional options, hinting at transformative applications in energy technologies. These insights highlight the importance of continuing our exploration of quantum materials, positioning them as promising candidates for tackling today’s energy challenges and paving the way for advancements in sustainable energy solutions.

A Study on Energy Production and Consumption Based on Seasonal ARIMA and REAO

In the face of the global energy challenge, this study delves into the intricate landscape of energy dynamics within the rapidly evolving global economy and technological sphere. Recognizing energy as a pivotal driver of societal progress, we present a comprehensive evaluation and optimization model for China's energy sources, emphasizing economic, cost, electric energy, and environmental considerations. Employing time series models, specifically ARIMA and gray scale forecasting, we meticulously analyze wind and solar power generation, as well as overall power consumption. The results showcase nuclear power and hydropower as significant contributors to the energy landscape. Leveraging a linear programming model, we simulate and optimize the future energy development structure, considering constraints such as cost, energy, capacity, and carbon emissions. Our findings reveal the optimal quota contributions of thermal power, hydro power, nuclear power, wind power, and solar power as 13.7%, 14.2%, 17.6%, 54.5%, and 0%. Building upon these insights, we propose strategic recommendations for sustainable electric energy development. Emphasizing wind and solar energy's potential, we advocate for continued interest and increased support for technological advancements. Additionally, we call for the establishment of comprehensive power and energy development plans, integrating economic and environmental goals. To address imperfections in China's electricity tariff system, we recommend ongoing reforms aligned with market dynamics and environmental considerations.

From industrial territory to sustainable or “green” industrial district? The case of an industrial district’s evolution in Normandy

PurposeThrough participant observation, this paper aims to show how the existing ecosystem has helped to attract new companies that are integrating and enriching this ecosystem, while helping to decarbonize the region’s industry.Design/methodology/approachIn France, industrial and carbon-intensive regions are currently facing the challenges of environmental, energy and digital transition. Against a backdrop of reindustrialization, and to meet the objectives set by the French climate and resilience law, these regions are seeking both to support the existing ecosystem in meeting these new challenges and to diversify their economic fabric by welcoming greener industries.FindingsIn Normandy, in the Caux Seine agglo area, new projects linked to bioplastics have led the region to reflect on the creation and structuring of a greener industrial district bringing together manufacturers, a research cluster and a training center.Originality/valueThe authors are studying an industrial region in Normandy that is considered to be a pilot area, experimenting with new directions in terms of low-carbon industry. Based on the petrochemical industry, this little-studied area wants the industrial zone to become a genuine green energy hub. Strong political will and substantial private and public investment have enabled the emergence of a new green chemistry industry.

Clean Energy Challenges and Innovation Opportunities in Kazakhstan

Abstract Kazakhstan has pledged to transition to a low-carbon economy by implementing national policies and strategies that promote clean energy innovation. However, Kazakhstan is still falling short of its expected targets for energy transition, and there is a lack of knowledge regarding the country's challenges and opportunities for clean energy development. Towards this end, the current study identifies and assesses the enablers and barriers related to clean energy innovation in Kazakhstan. Using the combination of SWOT analysis, survey data from 41 experts and the DEMATEL decision support tool, we evaluated the key factors affecting Kazakhstan's clean energy innovation and their implications for energy transition. Assessment results show that the immature business environment, underpinned by technological, institutional, and socioeconomic factors, is perceived as a high-impact constraint for clean energy innovation and green finance deployment in Kazakhstan. Skilled labour shortages, high reliance on hydrocarbons and low retail energy prices are significant challenges to Kazakhstan's clean energy innovation. The low-profit margin and high investment risk in clean energy projects are identified as transition barriers in the power and energy-intensive industries. In contrast, Kazakhstan's endowments of resources critical for developing clean energy technologies (rare earth metals, uranium, gas) and the potential of low-carbon investments (e.g. carbon storage) are perceived as prominent enablers of clean energy innovation. Results are consistent across expert subgroups (academia, industry, NGOs, etc). Findings call for policy support to modern and attractive business environments, capacity, and human capital development. The findings can provide helpful insights for countries in Central Asia and beyond with similar socioeconomic structures that aim for a timely energy transition.

Comparative Policy Analysis of Renewable Energy Expansion in Mongolia and Other Relevant Countries

The study aims to conduct a comparative analysis of policies governing the expansion of renewable energy in Mongolia and selected countries. Against the backdrop of global energy transitions and Mongolia’s recent energy challenges, this research aims to identify and evaluate policy frameworks that facilitate the sustainable growth of renewable energy sources. The study delves into the unique socio-economic and geopolitical context of Mongolia, emphasizing the nation’s energy dependence on Russia. The findings of this comparative analysis provide valuable insights for Mongolian policymakers, offering recommendations for enhancing domestic policies that encourage the diversification of energy sources and attract foreign investment. By drawing on successful practices from some countries, this paper aims to contribute to the formulation of effective and context-specific strategies for Mongolia to achieve a more sustainable and resilient energy landscape.

Lithium enrichment in high-enthalpy geothermal system influenced by seawater, Indonesia

Lithium holds significant importance in energy storage and can be extracted from geothermal water, making it an additional resource to traditional mining. Combining lithium extraction from geothermal water with electricity generation from geothermal energy offers a compelling strategy to address future energy challenges. Situated in Southeast Sumatra, Indonesia, Way Ratai has considerable geothermal potential and is known for its hot springs. This study primarily aims to characterize lithium enrichment within the Way Ratai geothermal system. Water samples from various sources (one spring, seven hot springs, one well, and seawater) were analyzed for cations, anions, trace elements, and isotopic composition. The results show that Way Ratai is an old geothermal system with sodium-chloride water, where lithium enrichment is attributed to interactions between water and rocks, with some influence from seawater. The discrepancy between calculated and observed magnesium (Mg) concentrations suggests a pre-heating mixing process between rainwater and seawater. The reservoir rock in Way Ratai is mostly andesitic, with temperatures ranging from 182o to 227oC. This study enhances our understanding of thermal water characteristics, reservoir temperatures, and water origins in high enthalpy geothermal systems, offering valuable insights into lithium enrichment in coastal geothermal regions.

Enhancing d/p-2π* Orbitals Hybridization via Strain Engineering for Efficient CO2 Photoreduction.

The photoconversion of CO2 into valuable chemical products using solar energy is a promising strategy to address both energy and environmental challenges. However, the strongly adsorbed CO2 frequently impedes the seamless advancement of the subsequent reaction by significantly increasing the reaction activation energy. Here, we present a BiFeO3 material with lattice strain that collaboratively regulates the d/p-2π* orbitals hybridization between metal sites and *CO2 as well as *COOH intermediates to achieve rapid conversion of solidly adsorbed CO2 to critical *COOH intermediates, accelerating the overall CO2 reduction kinetics. Quasi in situ X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and in situ Fourier Transform infrared spectroscopy combined with theoretical calculation reveals that the optimized Fe sites enhance the adsorption and activation effect of CO2, and continuous internal electrons are rapidly transferred to the reaction sites and injected into the surface *CO2 and *COOH under the condition of illumination, which promotes the rapid formation and stability of *COOH. Certainly, the performance of CO2 photoreduction to CO is improved by 12.81-fold compared with the base material. This work offers a new perspective for the rapid photoreduction process of strongly adsorbed CO2.

Enhancing d/p‐2π* Orbitals Hybridization via Strain Engineering for Efficient CO2 Photoreduction

AbstractThe photoconversion of CO2 into valuable chemical products using solar energy is a promising strategy to address both energy and environmental challenges. However, the strongly adsorbed CO2 frequently impedes the seamless advancement of the subsequent reaction by significantly increasing the reaction activation energy. Here, we present a BiFeO3 material with lattice strain that collaboratively regulates the d/p‐2π* orbitals hybridization between metal sites and *CO2 as well as *COOH intermediates to achieve rapid conversion of solidly adsorbed CO2 to critical *COOH intermediates, accelerating the overall CO2 reduction kinetics. Quasi in situ X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy and in situ Fourier Transform infrared spectroscopy combined with theoretical calculation reveals that the optimized Fe sites enhance the adsorption and activation effect of CO2, and continuous internal electrons are rapidly transferred to the reaction sites and injected into the surface *CO2 and *COOH under the condition of illumination, which promotes the rapid formation and stability of *COOH. Certainly, the performance of CO2 photoreduction to CO is improved by 12.81‐fold compared with the base material. This work offers a new perspective for the rapid photoreduction process of strongly adsorbed CO2.

Recent Progress in Photocatalytic Applications of Electrospun Nanofibers: A Review.

Electrospun fiber-based photocatalysts demonstrate significant potential in addressing global environmental and energy challenges, primarily due to their high specific surface areas and unique properties. This review examines recent advances in the application of these materials in photocatalytic processes, with a particular focus on water splitting and hydrogen production. The principles of the electrospun method are described in detail, along with the operating parameters, material characteristics, and environmental conditions that affect the fiber formation. Additionally, the review discusses the challenges, advantages, and future prospects of photocatalysts incorporating carbon materials, metals, semiconductors, and hybrid structures with improved performance. These materials have the potential to significantly improve the efficiency of hydrogen energy production, water purification, and CO2 recovery, highlighting their importance in engineering sciences.

Solar Energy Challenges for Rural Electrification: Case Study of Lower-Shabelle Region of Somalia

Renewable energy is a promising energy source for sustainability to meet the demands of clean energy in the future and the alternative way of fusil fuels. Somalia has great potential for alternative energy sources, particularly solar and wind power. Apart from that, there are challenges related to the implementation of this alternative energy source especially solar energy for rural electrification in the Lower-Shabelle region in Somalia which can be categorized as social awareness, financial difficulties, and technical obstacles. The aim of this research is to identify and evaluate the challenges of solar energy for rural electrification in Lower-Shabelle region in Somalia, the current energy sources that have been utilized and the possible future strategies that should be in Somalia. This research project is conducted through a survey using an online questionnaire that has been distributed in Afgooye district in Lower-Shabelle region in Somalia. The statistical model of IBM SPSS version 25 was used to study the descriptive analysis of the collected data, reliability analysis and distribution test analysis. Based on the statistical analysis, the results indicated the significance impact of scattered settlement pattern of rural people in this area as 46% of respondents agreed, while 32% participants strongly agreed and 26% agreed towards the impact of traditionalway of living of rural people and dependence on conventional energy source. A significantpercentage of the respondents have shown strong agreement 39% and agreement of 34% regarding the impact of higher cost of importing off-grid solar products. Additionally, a significant number (46.1%) of them have responded with agreement on low-rate return of from solar projects in the rural areas. Furthermore, respondents recognized the effect of shortage or lack of technical knowledge of solar technologies in this region, with 38% of them in agreement and 36% agreed. Finally, respondents widely agreed about other technical related to solar technologies efficiency like battery overcharge and poor layout of solar panels where most of the respondents agreed about these challenges.

Impacts of water, energy, and food nexus challenges on household vulnerability: the case of Harare City, Zimbabwe

Abstract Water, energy, and food (WEF) are interwoven, and their scarcity in the face of climate change intensifies household vulnerability (HV), particularly in developing countries. The interlinkage is complex; it makes it difficult to make decisions and requires coordinated and integrated approaches. Policymakers face problems when attempting to identify and implement appropriate policy actions at the nexus of these challenges. This study interrogates the contribution of WEF challenges to HV in Harare to create good policies that can enhance synergies. Data was collected from 314 urban households through questionnaires. In addition, 11 in-depth interviews and one focus group discussion were conducted with the Harare Residents’ Association. The stakeholders interviewed included six city council officials, one representative from UNICEF, two from the World Food Program, and two from the Zimbabwe electricity supply authority. Survey data was analysed using both SPSS Statistics and SPSS AMOS software. While SPSS Statistics was used for descriptive statistics, factor analysis, and inferential tests, SPSS Amos was used for construct validation and structural equation modelling (SEM) path analysis. Interviews were recorded, collated, transcribed, and coded through the summative thematic analysis using QSR NVivo v14. SEM was used to test the proposed relationships between WEF challenges and HV. The findings revealed a positive relationship between the WEF constructs and HV among Harare residents. Socioeconomic factors were also found to have a statistically significant effect on the relationship between Climatic Change and HV. Most climate impacts were found to be water-related, meaning, interventions to address water challenges can boost energy and food production. This will enable policymakers to allocate resources for positive results.