Energy-efficient Technologies Research Articles

Optimizing Microgrid Operation: Integration of Emerging Technologies and Artificial Intelligence for Energy Efficiency

Microgrids have emerged as a key element in the transition towards sustainable and resilient energy systems by integrating renewable sources and enabling decentralized energy management. This systematic review, conducted using the PRISMA methodology, analyzed 74 peer-reviewed articles from a total of 4205 studies published between 2014 and 2024. This review examines critical areas such as reinforcement learning, multi-agent systems, predictive modeling, energy storage, and optimization algorithms—essential for improving microgrid efficiency and reliability. Emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things, and flexible power electronics are highlighted for enhancing energy management and operational performance. However, challenges persist in integrating AI into complex, real-time control systems and managing distributed energy resources. This review also identifies key research opportunities to enhance microgrid scalability, resilience, and efficiency, reaffirming their vital role in sustainable energy solutions.

Harnessing the Power of Renewable Energy: A Study of Sustainable Sources and Technologies

This research investigates the capacity of renewable energy technologies to fulfill global energy requirements while mitigating environmental effects, concentrating on primary sources like sun, wind, hydropower, biomass, and geothermal energy. It evaluates the efficacy of various technologies for energy production, efficiency, economic viability, and reduction of carbon emissions. The findings underscore notable progress in solar and wind energy, demonstrating considerable efficiency enhancements (5% for solar PV, 10% for wind turbines) and cost reductions (67% and 64%, respectively) during the last decade. Hydropower is the most efficient energy source, converting 90% of available energy, albeit it is geographically constrained. The research highlights the environmental advantages, noting that renewable technologies substantially decrease CO₂ emissions—hydropower and wind energy prevent 250,000 and 120,000 metric tons of CO₂ annually, respectively. Nonetheless, obstacles such as the variability of solar and wind energy, elevated expenses associated with biomass and geothermal energy, and regional variations in implementation persist as substantial impediments. The research highlights the need for further developments in energy storage, grid modernization, and legislative assistance to expedite the worldwide shift towards renewable energy. This study synthesizes current statistics and trends, emphasizing the vital role of renewable energy in attaining a sustainable, low-carbon future, while also tackling ongoing economic and infrastructural problems.

Boosted Near-Infrared Photothermal Conversion in Rare Earth Ions-Doped 2D SnSe Nanosheets for Solar-Powered Water Evaporation Systems.

Solar-powered water evaporation as a clean and abundant renewable energy-efficient desalination technology provides a promising strategy to solve the shortage of freshwater resources. However, the development and application of solar vapor technology are hindered by the relatively low near-infrared photothermal conversion efficiency of existing materials and the lack of effective improvement strategies. In this work, the conductivity characteristics of 2Dsemiconductors are capitalized on the high visible light absorption and ultra-low thermal. Specifically, rare-earth ion dopants into SnSe nanosheets, significantly boosting their near-infrared photothermal conversion efficiency and solar water evaporation performance are introduced. Remarkably, the photothermal conversion efficiency of the doped SnSe nanosheets surged from 51.56% to 82.11%, surpassing many previously reported photothermal materials. Furthermore, leveraging these nanosheets with enhanced photothermal conversion efficiency, a solar interfacial evaporation system is constructed. The evaporation rate of 2.17kgm-2h-1 and the efficiency of 96.5% can be achieved at one solar irradiance, and it also has good salt-resistance properties. The findings demonstrate the potential of rare earth ion-doped 2D semiconductor nanosheets in solar water evaporation, paving the way for future sustainable desalination solutions.

Quantifying future carbon emissions uncertainties under stochastic modeling and Monte Carlo simulation: Insights for environmental policy consideration for the Belt and Road Initiative Region

This study critically examines future carbon (CO2) emissions in the Belt & Road Initiative (BRI) region, considering factors such as energy consumption, economic growth, population growth, and population density. The objective of this study is to identify critical areas of higher emissions, which require policy intervention capable of strengthening sustainability in the BRI compact. A combined approach of stochastic modeling and Monte Carlo simulations was employed, utilizing panel data from 45 countries in the BRI region from 1990 to 2021. Results confirm that emissions are higher in all scenarios in direct proportion to electric power consumption, population growth, and Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth. In scenarios with high emissions, a continuous and significant upward trend in CO2 emissions was observe. The medium emissions scenario exhibited a more moderated rise in emissions, suggesting a balance between economic development and environmental considerations. Critical areas for future environmental policy-making resides in electric power consumption, population growth, and GDP growth. The study strongly recommends for a shift from the current focus on road and railway infrastructure to renewable energy infrastructure, green innovations and efficient technology transfer to member countries. Without this, the BRI region is likely to face increased emissions, posing significant challenges to future sustainable development and global environmental sustainability.

Impacts of Urbanization on Energy Consumption in the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation Zone

Energy resources play a vital role in the process of urbanization, and the high level of energy consumption has significantly created an alarming situation for environmental degradation. Increased demand for energy consumption in the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) zone is a core concern for decreasing the existing reserves of energy, especially nonrenewable energy, when the growth of urbanization is increasing also. This study investigates the impacts of urbanization on energy consumption in this region by identifying factors that influence energy use. We employed globally used econometric techniques to examine the relationship between energy use and urbanization. The results of the study indicate that all the independent variables used in the model (except urban population growth) were statistically significant with a 99% level of confidence. In addition, the findings of this study recognized three long-run causalities running from the GDP (gross domestic product) to energy consumption, energy consumption to GDP, and energy consumption to the industry’s share of the countries’ GDP. We recommend (i) taking the initiative to invest in renewable energy, (ii) implementing green energy-efficient technologies in the industrial sector, and (iii) raising public awareness of the negative effects of energy use on the environment through education.

Sustainable Entertainment: Management Strategies for Sustainable Growth in the Television Industry

As it faces the threats and seizes the possibilities presented by sustainability, the television business is experiencing a profound shift. The potential for long-term expansion in the television industry is investigated in this study by looking at sustainable entertainment management practices. The research finds important tactics that production businesses and television networks may use to incorporate social, economic, and environmental sustainability into their operations by looking at existing practices and new developments. Case studies of prominent firms, examination of sustainability reports, and expert interviews make up the research's mixed-methods strategy. The results show that in order to promote sustainability, it is crucial to use energy-efficient technology, decrease waste with digital manufacturing processes, and encourage social responsibility with inclusive content and fair labour standards. In order to achieve sustainable development in the long run, the research stresses the significance of stakeholder involvement and strategic alliances. Stakeholders in this sector may use the suggestions made in this paper to improve their sustainability initiatives and meet the changing needs of the global market in a way that is good for the environment and their bottom line.

Design of Mixed-Metal MOF-74-MgNi for Water Adsorption-Driven Solar Thermal Energy Storage and Heat Transformation Applications.

Adsorption solar thermal energy storage and heat transformation are ecologically benign and energy-efficient technologies. Efficient adsorbents are the key to this technology. In this paper, two metal ions, Mg2+ and Ni2+, were introduced into the metal-organic framework MOF-74. The synthesis conditions were adjusted to obtain MOF-74 with a high water adsorption capacity and stability. The results show that MOF-74-MgNi-2 has the maximum water adsorption capacity. At a low moisture pressure P/P0 = 0.1, its water adsorption capacity is 0.44 g/g, 0.12 g/g, and 0.10 g/g greater than that of MOF-74-Mg and MOF-74-Ni, respectively. Its saturated water adsorption capacity at P/P0 = 0.9 is as high as 0.62 g/g, which is 1.3 times that of MOF-74-Ni and 1.1 times that of MOF-74-Mg, respectively. Its superior water adsorption capacity is explained by the combination of experiment and molecular simulation, which takes into account the pore structure and electrostatic potential energy distribution. Its thermal breakdown temperature is greater than 250 °C. Its water adsorption capacity decreases by only 9.0% in the 10th cycle. Under conventional refrigeration conditions, its refrigeration coefficient and working capacity are 0.75 and 0.43 cm3/cm3, respectively, which are greater than those of the majority of the regularly used adsorbents. In addition, it satisfies the primary technological goals of adsorption-based thermal batteries with a heat storage capacity of up to 1394 kJ/kg. The mixed-metal method is shown to be useful in the design of high-performance MOF-74 for solar thermal energy storage and heat transformation.

Autotrophic biological nitrogen removal in anammox system at elevated temperature: EPS regulation and metagenomic analysis

Carbon reduction in wastewater treatment industry has been attracted global attention. Anaerobic ammonium oxidation (anammox) process is known as a promising and energy-efficient technology. In this study, the effects of elevated temperature on anammox system were thoroughly investigated. Analyses of effluent and microbial community indicated that long-term exposure to 45℃ led to system collapse and a huge shift in community structure. Network analysis revealed that the sudden drop in abundance of AnAOB at 45℃ (from 36.19 % to 10.71 %) made them uncompetitive with heterotrophic bacteria. The decrease of EPS concentration (a minimum of 7.22 mg·g−1-VSS at 45℃) combined with the enhancement of EPS metabolism at higher temperature suggested a shift in the role of EPS from protective function at 35℃ to utilization as a carbon source for heterotrophic bacteria at higher temperatures. Through constructing the cross-feeding relationships associated with amino acids, polysaccharides, and cofactors, we found the dependence of heterotrophs on AnAOB became weaker at high temperature, and the disturbances in interspecific relationships might be responsible for the collapse of the anammox system. This work presents significant insights into the engineering of anammox process under high temperature.

Green finance, fossil fuel efficiency, and sustainable development in OECD

This study investigates the effects of eco-friendly finance and fossil fuel efficiency on sustainability in 15 OECD countries from 2005 to 2021. A 1% increase in the Fossil Fuels Efficiency Index improves sustainability by 0.32% in the short term and 0.45% in the long term. Similarly, a 1% rise in green finance enhances sustainability by 0.16% short-term and 0.40% long-term. Negative impacts on sustainability were found from the Energy Security Risk Index, Carbon Footprint, and Economic Growth, while higher Income Levels boost sustainability. Fossil fuel efficiency has a greater effect on sustainability than green finance, highlighting the need to prioritize fossil fuel efficiency. Recommendations include promoting renewable energy, digitizing green finance, customizing marketing strategies, importing energy efficiency technologies, and implementing efficient green tax rates.

A Lost Opportunity? Environmental Investment Tax Incentive and Energy Efficient Technologies

AbstractThis paper examines the impact of the Spanish Environmental Investment (EI) tax credit on adoption of green technologies by employing data from 2567 industrial firms for 6 years. It makes use of the sudden re-introduction of the tax incentive in March 2011, that aimed at favouring energy efficient over solely pollution abating technologies. I exploit this unexpected change and perform a difference-in-differences analysis to study its effect on green investments and as an extention on green employment outcomes. The policy change, aimed at switching financing to energy efficient technologies, is assessed as semi-effective. Admittedly, it decreased investment in end-of-pipe technologies, but the investment in superior cleaner production technologies increased only for the small firms (below 50 employees), which are especially vulnerable to the capital market failure. Unfortunately, the policy change had also a few unexpected indirect effects, firms in response to the tax incentive regime modification reduced the number of their green employees and their associated salaries. In stark contrast to the decision of the Spanish government on this EI tax credit, the results of this analysis seem to be quite encouraging for the continued use of this green fiscal policy and show that the modifications in the precision of the existing fiscal policies can be successful.

Heating performance of PCM radiant floor coupled with horizontal ground source heat pump for single-family house in cold zones

As the energy demand for space heating increases, the necessity for innovative and energy-efficient heating technologies has become more urgent. This study proposes and evaluates a heating system that integrates a phase change material radiant floor with a horizontal ground source heat pump (PCM floor-HGSHP, Case 1), intending to maintain indoor comfort temperatures and enhance energy efficiency through the utilization of renewable energy sources. Despite the considerable potential of PCM floors, their combination with HGSHP requires further research to fully unlock their benefits. The study involved simulating the PCM floor using a validated TRNSYS component and developing an advanced rule-based control strategy with time-of-use tariffs as a key input to optimize system operation. To elucidate and quantify the advantages of the PCM floor-HGSHP system and verify its applicability in cold regions of China, a single-family house was used as a case study building, four representative cities were selected, and two comparative simulation cases were defined, along with three key performance indicators. The results indicate that, compared with the radiant floor heating system with HGSHP (RFHS-HGSHP, Case 2), the incorporation of PCM in the floor of Case 1 improves the indoor temperature stability by 8.6 %, enhances the load flexibility by 18.1 %, and reduces the total operating costs by 13.8 %. Furthermore, relative to the PCM floor with air-to-water heat pump system (PCM floor-AWHP, Case 3), the proposed system which substitutes the AWHP with the HGSHP, extends the duration of indoor comfort temperatures by 9.6 % and decreases the system electricity consumption by 33.7 %. The proposed system demonstrates excellent thermal and energy performance across all selected cities, proving to be both technically feasible and significantly beneficial for maintaining indoor comfort temperatures and reducing operational costs. This study offers valuable insights and technical support for designing and optimizing residential heating systems in cold regions, thereby promoting the development and application of renewable energy sources.

From policy to practice: The role of national policy instruments and social barriers in UK energy efficiency adoption in households

This paper investigates the adoption trends for energy efficiency (EE) measures in the UK residential sector and the extent to which national-level EE policies impact households' willingness to adopt EE measures and technologies. Using survey data from a representative sample of more than 2000 households across the UK and discrete choice models, this research examines the preferences given to different policy schemes such as tax rebates, grants, loans, easing administrative barriers or information campaigns; and its role on household decisions to adopt EE measures. We find that national-level policies in the form of grants and subsidies, information campaigns on savings and a reduction of administrative barriers would positively impact the probability of a household to adopt such measures. Differences are found between the policy drivers in the adoption of low-cost EE measures e.g. loft insulation vs. High-cost EE measures e.g. heat pumps. Importantly, our results highlight the role of policy mixes in fostering the adoption of EE measures in UK. In combination with other policies, tax credits can be effective in fostering the adoption on EE measures. Our findings have implications for policymakers seeking to enhance the effectiveness of EE policies and address social challenges to promote sustainable energy use.

Does the Novel Dual Source Heat Pump (DSHP) Out-Perform the Ideal DSHP? Experimentation Versus Simulation of DSHP Based Thermodynamic Irreversibility of the Throttle Valve

Purpose: The air-source heat pumps are associated with continuous frosting problems. To ensure a more energy efficiency technology, the novel dual-source heat pump (DSHP) was developed. This article aims to confirm and compare the energy performance of the novel dual-source heat pump (DSHP) with the performance of an ideal heat pump. Methods: We applied an experimental analysis from an installed DSHP system with converters and other components to obtain the energy performance of the DSHP, while the performance of an ideal pump was obtained from simulation based on the theoretical algorithm of the basic principle of the thermodynamic irreversibility of the throttle valve. Results: We found that the Ideal (simulated) DSHP has a higher coefficient of performance (COP) than the installed (experimented) DSHP. The Ideal DSHP’s COP of 4.52 is higher than the Novel DSHP’s COP, which range from 1.78 (day 3) to 2.01 (day 1). The DSHP are power efficient, which reduces carbon emission from whatever power source that is been used. Implications: Energy efficiency in buildings has severe implications for global warmings and the need for sustainability. Because the modern ventilation system utilise energy from waste and heat recovery to power heating and cooling systems, the DSHP remains promising for future generations of building ventilation design. Originality/Value: The value of the study is because it completes an experiment that analyse the performance of the DSHP, comparing the outcomes with results from a simulation based on an Ideal system.

Does energy policy uncertainty matter for renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies? An affordable and clean energy perspective

Uncertainty can affect both macroeconomic indicators and the environment. Countries are implementing various energy policies to combat global warming, but these policies contain some uncertainties and contradictions. The environmental impact of uncertainties in energy policies is a research topic that has just begun to be investigated by researchers. This study examines the effects of energy policy uncertainty (ENERPU) on renewable energy R&D (RR&D), energy efficiency R&D (EER&D) and renewable energy consumption in the four countries with the highest RR&D expenditures (USA, Germany, Japan, and Spain). The study uses the novel multivariate quantile-on-quantile (M-QQR) approach from 2003 m1 to 2022 m9. The results of the study show: (i) The impact of ENERPU varies by quantile and country. (ii) ENERPU causes a decrease in renewable energy consumption and hinders RR&D expenditures. (iii) ENERPU increases EER&D. The Fourier quantile causality test confirms the robustness of the empirical results. Based on these findings, policymakers are recommended to minimize ENERPU and implement stable energy policies to develop the renewable energy sector and technologies.

Green Endoscopy and Sustainable Practices: A Scoping Review

Abstract Objectives The emergence of “green endoscopy” arises from the increasing global need to reform environmental sustainability due to climate change. Our review aimed to provide current evidence surrounding green endoscopy on sustainable issues including environmental impact, innovations, guidelines, policies, future directions, and recommendations. Materials and Methods A scoping review was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis extension for scoping reviews guidelines. Full-text English articles from established databases were screened for eligibility criteria and analyzed. Results Out of 7,892 identified articles, 28 met all the eligibility criteria. Key findings include (1) the significant environmental impact of single-use items in current endoscopic practices; (2) there are emerging green innovations in endoscopy, such as reusable instruments, eco-friendly sterilization methods, and energy-efficient technologies; (3) guidelines and green policies are increasingly available to provide clinical guidance and framework for health care facilities; (4) model institutions can provide case studies and examples of implementing green endoscopy; and (5) unified efforts from all stakeholders are needed to address challenges, including cost-effectiveness. Conclusion A paradigm shift toward green endoscopy is clearly in place and should be driven by the need to reduce environmental impact, be cost-effective, and not sacrifice patient safety.

Efficiency enhancement of bicycle anti-lock braking systems (ABS): Design and optimization of solenoid actuators through finite element analysis and performance simulation

The rising popularity of cycling underscores the need for enhanced safety, particularly under challenging braking conditions. This study introduces a novel high-power switch valve designed explicitly for Bicycle Hydraulic Disc Brakes (BHDBs), incorporating Hydraulic Anti-lock Braking Systems (ABS). Comprehensive Finite Element Analysis (FEA) modeling and subsequent optimization of an existing solenoid valve’s internal geometry were performed through 2D and 3D simulations to evaluate magnetic flux. The improved design achieved a maximum output force of 280 N with a linear stroke of approximately 3.5 mm. Notably, the enhanced system exhibited a 28% reduction in required current, from 5.0 to 3.6 A, a result validated through LabVIEW-equipped custom tests, which stress the credibility of the research. This study underscores significant advancements in high-power switch valves for BHDBs, promising enhanced braking efficiency and safety in high-performance, battery-powered bicycles. These findings not only promise enhanced safety for cyclists but also suggest the potential for broader application in energy-efficient and sustainable bicycle ABS technology, contributing to improved cyclist safety without compromising the environmental and health benefits of cycling. The potential impact of this research extends beyond the immediate context, offering insights that could be applied to other areas of technology and safety.

Potential Use of Portulaca Plant Species in Removing Estradiol Hormone Pollutants in the Surface Water of Bengawan Solo River

Bengawan Solo River water is a source of drinking water and raw materials for the government of Surakarta city, but the water has been mixed with domestic, industrial, and agricultural wastes. The waste contains estradiol-17 derived from urine and feces, both from livestock and humans as well as industries around the sub-watershed Bengawan Solo River. The content of estradiol-17 in the Bengawan Solo sub-watershed is quite high. This study is the first conducted in Bengawan Solo River to look at natural estrogens that are very rarely studied in the environment, which are likely could cause several health effects in humans and wildlife due to their relatively strong estrogenic potential and high levels in wastewater and river water. Therefore, research on the elimination of these compounds using effective, energy-efficient, and low-maintenance technologies for water treatment such as phytoremediation is highly expected. The purposes of this study were to identify estradiol, to measure the estradiol levels through HPLC tests as well as to test the effectiveness of phytoremediation with Portulaca plant as biological agents. The results show that the water of Bengawan Solo River contained estradiol substances ranging from 3.88 ppm to 5.76 ppm. The Portulaca plant species was effective at eliminating estrogenic waste up to 99.89%.

The role of state regulation in ensuring the "green" transformation of the national economy

Green transformation of the state’s economy is an important aspect of modern economic policy aimed at ensuring sustainable development and minimizing the negative impact on the environment. This process involves a transition from traditional economic models based on fossil fuels and significant consumption of natural resources to more environmentally friendly and energy efficient technologies. Such a transformation helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions, reduce environmental pollution, and preserve natural resources for future generations. The use of energy-efficient sources helps reduce dependence on fossil fuels and ensures the stability of energy supply in the long term. In addition, the introduction of energy-efficient technologies in various sectors of the economy allows to significantly reduce energy consumption and costs of its production, which has a positive effect on economic indicators and the ecological situation in the country. The transition to more ecologically clean production processes and technologies, as well as the introduction of electric vehicles and other environmentally safe types of transport, allows to significantly reduce the amount of harmful emissions into the atmosphere. This helps to improve air quality, reduce the level of diseases associated with environmental pollution, and increase the general standard of living of the population. The green transformation of the economy also involves the active participation of the state in the formation of the appropriate regulatory and legal framework and the creation of economic incentives for enterprises and citizens. Tax breaks, subsidies, public investment in green technologies and infrastructure are important tools to support this process. At the same time, increasing public awareness of the importance of environmental responsibility and involving the public in decision-making contributes to the formation of an environmentally conscious society. Thus, the green transformation of the economy is a complex process that requires the efforts of the state, business and civil society. It ensures not only environmental safety, but also sustainable economic development, improving the quality of life of the population, and preserving natural resources for future generations.

Catalyst-free regeneration of plasma-activated water via ultrasonic cavitation: Removing aggregation concealment of antibiotic-resistant bacteria with enhanced wastewater sustainability

Aggregation is a crucial factor in bacterial biofilm formation, and comprehending its properties is vital for managing waterborne antibiotic-resistant bacteria. In this study, we examined Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) cell aggregation under varying conditions and assessed the inactivation efficiency of a novel disinfection method, micro-nano bubbles plasma-activated water via ultrasonic stirring cavitation (MPAW-US), on aggregated MRSA cells. Aggregation efficiency increased over time and at low salt concentrations but diminished at higher concentrations. Elevated MRSA cell aggregation in actual water samples represented significant real-life biohazard risks. Unlike conventional disinfection, MPAW-US treatment exhibited minimal change in the inactivation rate constant despite protective outer layers. Enhanced inactivation efficiency results from the synergistic effects of increased intracellular oxidative stress damage and extracellular substance disruption, triggered by ultrasound-activated micro-nano bubbles that improve PAW reactivity and applicability. This approach neither induced MRSA cross-resistance to unfavorable conditions nor increased toxicity or regrowth potential of aggregative MRSA, utilizing ATP levels as potential regrowth capability indicators. Ultimately, this energy-efficient disinfection technology functions effectively across diverse temperature ranges, showcasing exceptional sterilization and nutritional bean sprout production after cyclic filtering, thereby promoting wastewater sustainability amidst carbon emission concerns.

Social practices, gender, and materiality: Women's agency in bioenergy-dependent households and communities in the central Ethiopian Rift Valley

Current energy-related practices in bioenergy-dependent households and communities regularly reinforce social inequality and exacerbate environmental challenges. By investigating women's influence on rural energy service provision, this study sheds light on gendered practices and women's agency in a case study of three villages in central Ethiopia.Women's lives in these communities revolve around practices such as collecting wood and using fire for cooking, hygiene, or space heating. Energy-efficient technologies like cookstoves are peddled as solutions to the day-to-day challenges women face. While these can enhance health and well-being, a one-sided focus on technology overlooks the deep-seated social meanings that limit the agency of women. Energy research urgently needs to improve its understanding of how women may alter energy-related social practices, to avoid that technocratic approaches entrench the provision of energy services as a gendered female chore.This interdisciplinary research employs a Stock-Flow-Practice nexus perspective to analyse interlinkages between agency, practices, meanings, and the use of materials. Study results reveal that the agency of women to change their engagement in energy-related practices is curtailed by social prescriptions within the investigated households and communities. However, in households where women can garner higher levels of agency, they are able to shift how their households engage in practices.Our findings highlight the importance of understanding women's agency as unfolding through their engagement in social practices and reflecting negotiated social prescriptions. Policies and programmatic interventions towards sustainable and equitable energy transitions in bioenergy-dependent communities need to incorporate a practice-centred concept of agency to reach their goals.