Development Of New Energy Technologies Research Articles

Should We Give Up After Solyndra? Optimal Technology R&D Portfolios Under Uncertainty

Global climate change and other environmental challenges require the development of new energy technologies with lower emissions. In the near-term, R&D investments, either by government or the private sector, can bring down the costs of these lower emission technologies. However, the results of R&D are uncertain, and there are many potential technologies that may turn out to play an effective role in the future energy mix. In this paper, we address the problem of allocating R&D across technologies under uncertainty. Specifically, given two technologies, one with lower costs at present, but the other with greater uncertainty in the returns to R&D, how should one allocate the R&D budget? We develop a multi-stage stochastic dynamic programming version of an integrated assessment model of climate and economy that represents endogenous technological change through R&D decisions for two substitutable non-carbon backstop technologies. Using the model, we demonstrate that near-term R&D into the higher cost technology is justified, and that the amount of R&D into the high cost technology increases with both the variance in the uncertainty in returns to R&D and with the skewness of the uncertainty. We also present an illustrative case study of wind and solar photovoltaic technologies, and show that poor R&D results in early periods do not necessarily mean that investment should not continue.

The Importance Of Energy Solutions For A Safe And Rational Development

AbstractA new industrial revolution is on the verge in the energy domain considering the knowledge and skills acquired through the development of new energy technologies. Shale gas processing, unconventional oil exploitation, new exploring/drilling methods, mature renewable energy or in progress, all generated a wealth of knowledge in new technology. Therefore, this paper aims to analyse the positive and negative aspects of energy solutions, and to reveal the way to a world where a valid sustainable development, based on safe and rational premises, is actually considered. The paper also introduces suggestions for the energy system, which has a crucial importance in coping with the resource management of the future, where the economic, social, and environmental/climate needs of the post-crisis world should be suitably considered.

Quantum coherence in photosynthesis for efficient solar-energy conversion

The crucial step in the conversion of solar to chemical energy in Photosynthesis takes place in the reaction center where the absorbed excitation energy is converted into a stable charge separated state by ultrafast electron transfer events. However, the fundamental mechanism responsible for the near unity quantum efficiency of this process is unknown. Here we elucidate the role of coherence in determining the efficiency of charge separation in the plant photosystem II reaction centre (PSII RC) by comprehensively combining experiment (two-dimensional electronic spectroscopy) and theory (Redfield theory). We reveal the presence of electronic coherence between excitons as well as between exciton and charge transfer states which we argue to be maintained by vibrational modes. Furthermore, we present evidence for the strong correlation between the degree of electronic coherence and efficient and ultrafast charge separation. We propose that this coherent mechanism will inspire the development of new energy technologies.

Modelling the Evolutionary Paths of Multiple Carbon-Free Energy Technologies with Policy Incentives

In this paper, we establish an economy-energy-environment integrated model by introducing a new technical mechanism, that is, the revised logistic model, to be the technical core of the energy module. This gives the conventional top-down modes more bottom-up features and allows us to model the evolutionary pathways of multiple non-carbon technologies. The model’s simulations indicate that the mixed policy of both carbon tax and subsidy plays a significant part in promoting the development of new energy technologies. The shares in total primary energy usage for PV solar, geothermal power and wind energy, for example, will have increased to 24.9, 9.7 and 6.12 %, respectively. Meanwhile, technological progress can be significantly enhanced by introducing research and development (R&D) investment. As a result, the percentages of usage of the above three technologies are likely to increase to 26.2, 12.1 and 7.2 %, respectively, in that case. Besides, energy supply market will be locked up by non-fossil energy as early as 2035, or thereabouts, under the current R&D investment regime. Thus, the expansion of R&D may significantly improve the carbon-reducing potential of the mixed policy and perform well in easing the tax burden on businesses and consumers in the long run.

Affective Influences on Energy-Related Decisions and Behaviors

A successful energy transition will depend not only on the development of new energy technologies, but also on changes in the patterns of individual energy-related decisions and behaviors resulting in substantial reductions in energy demand. Across scientific disciplines, most theoretical approaches that try to understand energy-related decisions and behaviors focus mainly on cognitive processes, such as computations of utility (typically economic), the impact of cognitive heuristics, or the role of individual beliefs. While these models already explain important aspects of human decisions and behavior in the energy domain, we argue that an additional consideration of the contributions of emotional processes may be very fruitful for a deeper understanding of the issue. In this contribution, we outline a theoretical perspective on energy-related decisions and behaviors that integrates emotions, elicited by a cognitive-affective appraisal of the relevance of a situation, into a response system driving adaptive decisions and behaviors. We empirically investigate the explanatory power of the model variables to predict intentions to reduce energy use, demonstrating that the appraisal-emotion variables are able to account for additional variance that is not explained by two established models focused on cognitive processes (Theory of Planned Behavior and Value-Belief-Norm Theory). Finally, we discuss how the appraisal-emotion approach may be fruitfully integrated with other existing approaches and outline some questions for future research.

Project Portfolio Optimization Study of Project-Oriented New Energy Power Enterprise Engineering Analysis

With the rapid development of new energy technologies, a number of project-oriented new energy generation companies emerged. However, these enterprises are faced with various issues that triggered by the simultaneous management of multiple projects. This paper analyzed the development of project-oriented new energy generation companies and then studied the method of optimized order based on project portfolio strategies. As to project optimization, this paper proposes SWOT analysis and the key criteria weighted scoring method, and it proves the availability of the method with instance. This method improves the efficiency of project management in new energy generation companies.

Comparative Study on Electromagnetic and Electrome-chanical Transient Model for Grid-connected Photovoltaic Power System

With the development of new energy technology, there are increasing applications of grid-connected photovoltaic power generation system. However, there is little research on development of electromechanical model of large scale photovoltaic power station. The computational speed will be very slow if electromagnetic transient model is used for stability study because of its complexity. Therefore, study on electromechanical transient model of grid-connected photovoltaic power generation system is of great meaning. In this paper, electromagnetic transient model of photovoltaic power generation system is introduced first, and then a general electromechanical transient model is proposed. These two kinds of simulation model are set up in PSCAD. By comparing the simulation results of two models, the correctness and validity of the electromechanical transient model is verified. It provides reference model for efficient simulation and modeling of grid-connected photovoltaic power station in large-scale power systems.

Stabilized Laccases as Heterogeneous Bioelectrocatalysts

AbstractTypically, the use of heterogeneous enzyme catalysis is aimed at sustainability, reusability, or enhanced functionality of the biocatalyst and is achieved by immobilizing enzymes onto a support matrix or at a defined interface. Controlled enzyme immobilization is particularly important in bioelectrocatalysis because the catalyst must be effectively connected to a transducer to exploit its activity. This Review discusses what must be addressed for coupling biocatalysts to an electrode and the toolbox of methods that are available for achieving this outcome. As an illustration, we focus on the immobilization and stabilization of laccases at electronic interfaces. Historically, laccases have been used for the decolorization of dyes and for the synthesis of bio‐organic compounds; however, more recently, they have been applied to the fields of sensing and energy harvesting.1–3 There is an ever‐increasing focus on the development of new energy technologies, in which laccases find application (e.g., as cathodic catalysts in enzymatic fuel cells). Herein, we discuss the heterogeneous laccase biocatalysts that have been reported over the past 10–15 years and discuss why laccases continue to be biotechnologically relevant enzymes. Various methods for the immobilization of laccases are described, including the use of nanoscale supports and a range of encapsulation and cross‐linking chemistries. We consider the application of immobilized laccases to the food industry, in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, and in environmental applications, specifically in cases in which stabilization through heterogenization of the enzyme is critical to the application. We also include a consideration of electrochemical biosensors and the specific incorporation of laccases on the surfaces of transducers.

How to Do Well Graduate Employment of Colleges and Universities under the Low Carbon Economy Environment

Low carbon economy makes effect on employment. It shows that low carbon is not only a kind of life philosophy. With the development of new energy technology, it has risen to national economic strategy, and may become a new economic growth point. At the same time, the adjustment of energy structure, not only benefits to the sustainable development road of economic development to" green" , and also brings in new hope for improving the current employment situation. The employment situation of college graduates is an important index of social inspection and evaluation of the quality of running a school; it is one of the core competitiveness of schools. Graduate employment status relates to the school reputation directly. This paper studies that how colleges and universities do the employment work of graduates.

Who does what in China’s new energy vehicle industry?

This paper provides an overview of the Chinese new energy vehicle industry and discusses the role of state in the industry’s development. Chinese policies have aimed to promote the development of new energy technologies and to reduce the consumer price of new energy vehicles. Chinese authorities have also been concerned about the balance between collaboration and competition in the sector, since most key actors are owned by the state. One solution has been the establishment of a number of industry alliances linking auto enterprises, universities and research institutes, to promote both collaboration (within each alliance) and competition (between alliances).

Romney, Obama surrogates spell out candidates’ energy policies

Presidential candidates differ sharply on government involvement in energy R&D and climate change. But both favor more nuclear power and fracking.

A preliminary assessment of the potential for “team science” in DOE Energy Innovation Hubs and Energy Frontier Research Centers

President Obama has called for the development of new energy technologies to address our national energy needs and restore US economic competitiveness. In response, the Department of Energy has established new R&D modalities for energy research and development designed to facilitate collaboration across disciplinary, institutional, and sectoral boundaries. In this research note, we provide a preliminary assessment of the potential for essential mechanisms for coordinated problem solving among diverse actors within two new modalities at the DOE: Energy Innovation Hubs and Energy Frontier Research Centers.

India’s energy security: A sample of business, government, civil society, and university perspectives

This article explores the concept of energy security perceived and understood by a sample of government, business, civil society, and university stakeholders in India. Based on a literature review, the authors hypothesize what energy experts suggest energy security is for India. The article then tests these hypotheses through the use of a survey completed by 172 Indian respondents. The article begins by describing its methodology before summarizing the results of the literature review to distill seven working hypotheses related to energy security in India. These hypotheses relate to (1) security of energy supply, (2) equitable access to energy services, (3) research and development of new energy technologies, (4) energy efficiency and conservation, (5) self-sufficiency and trade in energy fuels, (6) nuclear power, and (7) the energy-water nexus. It then tests these hypotheses with our survey instrument before concluding with implications for energy policy in India and beyond.

Linking Reduced Deforestation and a Global Carbon Market: Impacts on Costs, Financial Flows, and Technological Innovation

Discussions over tropical deforestation are currently at the forefront of climate change policy negotiations at national, regional, and international levels. This paper analyzes the effects of linking Reduced Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation (REDD) to a global market for greenhouse gas emission reductions. We supplement a global climate-energy-economy model with alternative cost estimates for reducing deforestation emissions in order to examine a global program for stabilizing greenhouse gas concentrations at 550 ppmv of CO2 equivalent. Introducing REDD reduces global forestry emissions through 2050 by 20-22% in the Brazil-only case and by 64-88% in the global REDD scenarios. At the same time, REDD lowers the total costs of the climate policy by an estimated 10-25% depending on which tropical countries participate and whether the “banking” of excess credits for use in future periods is allowed. As a result, REDD could enable additional reductions of at least 20 ppmv of CO2-equivalent concentrations with no added costs compared to an energy-sector only policy. The cost savings from REDD are magnified if banking is allowed and there is a need to increase the stringency of global climate policy in the future in response, for example, to new scientific information. Results also indicate that REDD decreases carbon prices in 2050 by 8-23% with banking and 11-26% without banking. While developing regions, particularly Latin America, gain the value of REDD opportunities, the decrease in the carbon price keeps the value of international carbon market flows relatively stable despite an increase in volumes transacted. We also estimate that REDD generally reduces the total portfolio of investments and research and development of new energy technologies by 1-10%. However, due to impacts on the relative prices of different fossil fuels, REDD has a slight positive estimated effect on investments in coal-related technologies (IGCC and CCS) as well as, in some cases, non-electric energy R&D. This research confirms that integrating REDD into global carbon markets can provide powerful incentives for the preservation of tropical forests while lowering the costs of global climate change protection and providing valuable policy flexibility.

Optimal policy of energy innovation in developing countries: Development of solar PV in Iran

The purpose of this study is to apply managerial economics and methods of decision analysis to study the optimal pattern of innovation activities for development of new energy technologies in developing countries. For this purpose, a model of energy research and development (R&D) planning is developed and it is then linked to a bottom-up energy-systems model. The set of interlinked models provide a comprehensive analytical tool for assessment of energy technologies and innovation planning taking into account the specific conditions of developing countries. An energy-system model is used as a tool for the assessment and prioritization of new energy technologies. Based on the results of the technology assessment model, the optimal R&D resources allocation for new energy technologies is estimated with the help of the R&D planning model. The R&D planning model is based on maximization of the total net present value of resulting R&D benefits taking into account the dynamics of technological progress, knowledge and experience spillovers from advanced economies, technology adoption and R&D constraints. Application of the set of interlinked models is explained through the analysis of the development of solar PV in Iranian electricity supply system and then some important policy insights are concluded.

Cost development of future technologies for power generation—A study based on experience curves and complementary bottom-up assessments

Technology foresight studies have become an important tool in identifying realistic ways of reducing the impact of modern energy systems on the climate and the environment. Studies on the future cost development of advanced energy technologies are of special interest. One approach widely adopted for the analysis of future cost is the experience curve approach. The question is, however, how robust this approach is, and which experience curves should be used in energy foresight analysis. This paper presents an analytical framework for the analysis of future cost development of new energy technologies for electricity generation; the analytical framework is based on an assessment of available experience curves, complemented with bottom-up analysis of sources of cost reductions and, for some technologies, judgmental expert assessments of long-term development paths. The results of these three methods agree in most cases, i.e. the cost (price) reductions described by the experience curves match the incremental cost reduction described in the bottom-up analysis and the judgmental expert assessments. For some technologies, the bottom-up analysis confirms large uncertainties in future cost development not captured by the experience curves. Experience curves with a learning rate ranging from 0% to 20% are suggested for the analysis of future cost development.

The G8 on Energy: Too Little

![Figure][1] Energy security was a key issue at the St. Petersburg Summit of G8 leaders last month. Their joint communique[*][2] included many important commitments, but it omitted one crucial pledge: a significant increase in their governments' investments in R&D for energy technologies. The omission of energy R&D by the G8 reflects a worrisome lack of determination to accelerate the development of new energy technologies. The urgent challenge is to meet global demand [scheduled to rise by more than 50% in the next 25 years, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA)] while reducing the impact of greenhouse gas emissions on climate change. The St. Petersburg communique provides a list of future actions focused on private-sector energy funding, but neglects to emphasize the importance of public-sector R&D funding for technologies that are too far from market. It is perhaps not surprising that the communique had little to say on government R&D expenditure. A paper published last October concluded that public-sector R&D investment in energy in most industrialized countries has fallen sharply in real terms, from peak levels in the early 1980s, with some stabilization in the 1990s.[†][3] That analysis demonstrated that the 11 IEA countries accounting for most of the world's energy R&D had all decreased expenditures as a proportion of gross domestic product between 1975 and 2003. Investments in major energy R&D program areas dropped by 53% between 1990 and 2003. Fossil fuels and nuclear power accounted for more than 90% of the aggregate decline, but there was also an overall drop of 5% for R&D on renewable technologies. Analyses of these R&D budgets don't tell the whole story, but they do demonstrate that the governments of industrial countries are not facing up to the huge energy challenges that lie ahead. That is disquieting because the IEA is predicting that by 2030, based on current national policies, 80% of the world's primary energy demand will be met by fossil fuels. Meanwhile, nuclear, hydro, biomass, and waste will provide 17%, and other renewables, such as geothermal, solar, and wind energy, will only account for less than 2%. ![Figure][1] CREDIT: GETTY IMAGES As a result, the IEA projects that annual energy-related emissions of carbon dioxide will be 52% higher in 2030 than in 2003. Unless there is a radical change, the world will continue to become more reliant on fossil fuels beyond 2030. Without unfeasibly dramatic breakthroughs in carbon sequestration and energy efficiency, this will lead to proportionate increases in atmospheric greenhouse gas concentrations. To deal with rising energy demands and rising greenhouse gas emissions, more needs to be done to develop new energy technologies that are currently far from market. Governments must play a lead role in stimulating this process by investing more in R&D. One benchmark is set by nuclear fusion, where current publicly funded research runs at around $1.5 billion per year. But fusion is only one of the technologies that are not yet market-ready. Proportionate support of all other options surely would be a prudent investment in a world where the cost of worldwide energy consumption is measured in trillions of dollars. These R&D expenditures could be funded through carbon taxes or similar economic instruments, levied initially on the countries with the largest emissions. Such a proposal may seem ambitious, but some commentators have argued that the energy challenge demands a high-profile response analogous to the Manhattan or Apollo project, but on a global, rather than national, scale. An initiative of this type by world leaders would, as happened after the initiation of the Apollo project in the United States, stimulate education and enrollments in science and technology. Will G8 leaders have the vision to announce such an initiative at next year's summit? [1]: pending:yes [2]: #fn-1 [3]: #fn-2

99/03282 Technology policy and renewable energy: public roles in the development of new energy technologies

99/03282 Technology policy and renewable energy: public roles in the development of new energy technologies

Technology policy and renewable energy: public roles in the development of new energy technologies

Efforts to restructure the electric utility industry have led to renewed calls for increased use of renewable energy technologies for electricity generation. These technologies are, for the most part, not yet cost competitive with traditional methods of generation. While wind generation of electricity is perhaps the closest to commercial viability, it is widely believed that further advances in the technology are necessary for it to become fully practicable in the general view. Indeed, public resources continue to be spent toward this end. This paper presents a study of the technological and policy history of the development of wind power in the United States. The primary conclusion is that demand-side policies are needed to encourage not only diffusion of wind energy, but innovation in the technology itself. Weak demand-side policies for wind energy risks wasting the expenditure of public resources on research programs aimed at technological innovation. When these programs operate without the benefit of a market to test the results or provide guidance for future efforts, they are less likely to succeed. Recommendations as to specific public policies for creating a market for renewable energy are made.

Conceptual Design of Enertopia in Korea

Conventional literature argues that the competitiveness of new energy technologies is dependent on existing market conditions. Moreover, contemporary analyses have suggested that enhanced, energy-related research and development activities alone are insufficient to ensure a sustainable future. Korea's energy policies, meanwhile, have given top priority to research and development of new energy technologies. Given the aforementioned approaches, the Korean government has adopted “diffusion-oriented” policies that encourage technology transfer, international alliances, and the dissemination of information to supplement research and development. In addition, it has adopted the policy that market barriers can be overcome in part by direct government involvement in the energy marketplace, under the premise of promoting the public good. The present paper analyzes Korea's national energy strategy, describes the potential contributions of new energy technologies, and provides an overview of Enertopia, a major demonstration project being sponsored by the central government to test the viability of the sustainable development concept.