Energy Availability Research Articles

The political economy of gender mainstreaming in energy access in Sierra Leone

Abstract In 2017, the Economic Community of West African States launched its Policy for Gender Mainstreaming in Energy Access with each member state tasked to create a National Action Plan (NAP). This study explores the case of Sierra Leone, to understand how stakeholders have influenced the NAP process, and what that might mean for implementation. Using the Actor-Objective-Context framework with interview data from key gender and energy actors. We find elements that make Sierra Leone’s NAP unique; such as addressing systematic barriers, explicitly promoting solar energy and heavily relying on civil society. The study finds that a policy focus on gender reflects both a push from international donor organisations and the national efforts of civil society. Sierra Leone’s NAP reflects the tension between the high priority of gender politics at the national and international level and more immediate interest from the Ministry of Energy and government actors on economic development. It affirms the uneasy co-existence of the liberal and liberating view of women in international development with some evidence that the liberal view prevails. Still, despite the government focus on economic development, poor engagement with the private sector and cultural barriers are likely to hamper the inclusion of women into the energy industry.

Energy Poverty and Poor Buildings: A Brief Literature Review to Promote New Topics for Future Studies

The topic of energy poverty is a vast and complex one warranting extensive research. During the XX century, numerous research articles, books, and documents were published with the aim of defining energy poverty, measuring it, and proposing solutions to tackle it. The phenomenon of energy poverty can be studied using a variety of research methods, including the usual economic and econometric analyses, as well as energy policy. Research can also be conducted on the measurement of energy poverty and its social and health impact on disadvantaged communities. This can be explored in depth within specific subject areas, such as engineering, energy, environmental science, and social science. This brief review of literature focuses on energy poverty and poor buildings, thermal comfort, and the phenomenon of cooling poverty. The aim of this brief literature review is to show to a young researcher a previous framework and, through some keywords, that it is useful to drive future research using keywords.

Multi-scenario flexibility requirement analysis of high proportion of new energy access to power system

Abstract To address climate change, the proportion of renewable energy integration into the grid system is gradually increasing, leading to higher demands for flexibility. Current research typically employs methods such as dynamic system modeling, the construction of flexibility indicators, and scenario analysis to measure the flexibility requirements of the power system across different time scales. The use of frequency decomposition algorithms to explore flexibility requirements from the perspective of net load curves is relatively rare. This study utilizes net load data from the Western Inner Mongolia Power Grid to explore the distribution patterns of net load across different time scales under various seasonal and penetration scenarios using frequency decomposition algorithms. The results reveal that renewable energy output exhibits significant fluctuations and distinct diurnal variations, while net load also shows notable patterns and considerable volatility and seasonality. The analysis of flexibility requirements on typical seasonal days highlights the differences in demand distribution at various frequencies, with long-time-scale components primarily reflecting the overall trend of net load, while the medium-to-long time scale components characterize smaller, more frequent fluctuations. Additionally, the uncertainty associated with wind and solar output significantly affects the diurnal fluctuations of net load, with seasonal changes mainly represented in short-time-scale components. The study also emphasizes the impact of different penetration levels on flexibility requirements, indicating that as penetration decreases, the midnight requirement peak diminishes, suggesting differences in flexibility requirements based on renewable energy integration levels. Furthermore, the paper proposes corresponding solution technologies for “generation–grid–load–storage” across different time scales of flexibility requirements, ensuring the stable operation of the grid amidst climate change and rising electricity demand.

Patterns of household electricity consumption in Norway as a function of psychological factors, socio-economic constellations and access to electric appliances

To explore the complexity of household living conditions and their relation to electricity consumption, the socio-technical constellations they create for themselves and the perceived ease of saving electricity, we conducted a clustering analysis to categorise Norwegian participants in an electricity-saving programme based on environmental concerns, personal norms and socio-economic parameters. We also explored if the household clusters differed in perceived risk of energy poverty. A sample of 1,135 Norwegians participated in the study in 2023. A two-step cluster analysis resulted in five distinct clusters which we named: (1) older couples with moderate environmental concern; (2) eco-ease in midlife; (3) middle-aged females in medium-sized households; (4) growing families with moderate concerns; and (5) moderate advocates with adolescents. Analysis of variance indicated significant variations in mean scores of environmental concerns, access to energy appliances and perceived behavioural control implement energy-saving tips across clusters (p<0.01), but no difference in perceived risk of energy poverty. The results show that changes in the living situation, especially children moving out, seems to have strong effects on per capita electricity consumption, if the housing infrastructure is not adapted to the new family size. Lower environmental concern particularly impacts electricity consumption negatively in the time after children leave the household, and the same can be concluded for gender roles with females being more motivated to save electricity. Based on these results we recommend to more actively support these transitions of living situations, but also support existing sustainable energy use practices or connect electricity saving to other motivations (like supply security) for clusters where environmental concern is low.

Optimal planning and operation of heterogeneous autonomous and grid-connected microgrids based on multi-criteria techno-economic, environmental, and social indices

Sustainable energy transition involves the execution of recent technologies as a means of ensuring energy access and security. However, the increasing adoption of such technologies, particularly in the presence of diverse constraints, poses significant challenges from a planning perspective. In this context, the multi-objective analysis offers valuable insights for decision-making that balances mutual benefits, as relying solely on a single objective may increase the risk level for stakeholders engaged in coordinated decisions. Based on the real dataset, this study presents a comparative multi-criteria techno-economic, environmental, and social evaluation of site-specific unified standalone and grid-connected hybrid microgrids. The study employs a modified Last Cluster Mean Carried Forward approach for data processing, incorporating the Proprietary Derivative-free Algorithm and Original Grid-Search Algorithm to ensure a standardized comparison. Results reveal the substantial advantages of grid-connected systems over standalone counterparts, with reductions of 12.54 % to 63.73 % and 68.93 % to 89.13 % in terms of Net Present Cost and Levelized Cost of Energy, respectively. Grid-connected systems exhibit superior adaptability, recovering 52.3 % to 98.1 % surplus energy with a Renewable Fraction averaging 77.1 % to 87.9 %. However, these systems were hindered by frequent interruptions and required a minimum capacity shortage of 2.5 % to 3.5 %. Furthermore, grid-connected systems have proved feasible when carbon emissions, forests required to absorb the emissions, and the Social Cost of Carbon Emissions are considered in the range of 4.65–67.13 kiloton (metric), 423.32–6108.53 ha, and $0.24-$3.42 million, respectively. Social analysis and sensitivity analyses are performed to justify the robustness and adaptability. Lastly, the findings are followed by policy recommendations and results validation by comparing prevailing government tariffs and other studies.

Energy Poverty Alleviation in the Era of Energy Transition—Case Study of Poland and Sweden

The energy transition, aimed at significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions to combat climate change, presents both opportunities and challenges in addressing energy poverty. This article explores the differing approaches of Poland and Sweden in energy poverty alleviation within the context of this transition. Poland, with its historical dependence on coal, faces considerable obstacles as it seeks to shift towards cleaner energy sources while minimizing the impact on vulnerable populations. Conversely, Sweden, supported by its advanced energy infrastructure and strong welfare systems, has implemented effective strategies that have largely mitigated energy poverty, though challenges persist for low-income households, especially in rural areas. The article delves into the definitions, drivers, and alleviation strategies of energy poverty in both countries. Through a comprehensive literature review and the analysis of key initiatives such as Poland’s Clean Air Program and Sweden’s Warm Rent scheme, the study underscores the potential for policy interventions to address energy poverty. It concludes with recommendations on how both countries can further reduce energy poverty, highlighting the critical role of energy efficiency, social support systems, and the integration of renewable energy in achieving a fair and equitable energy transition.

Energy Availability in Female Collegiate Beach Volleyball Athletes.

Willingham, BD, Daou, M, VanArsdale, J, Thomas, M, and Saracino, PG. Energy availability in female collegiate beach volleyball athletes. J Strength Cond Res 38(11): 1941-1950, 2024-Low energy availability (LEA) is a present risk for many female athletes. Yet, the literature on LEA is often reliant on single, short-term, snapshots, which may not be reflective of the chronic energy balance surrounding female athletes in sport. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to establish the current prevalence of LEA in female collegiate beach volleyball athletes during the preseason and across the competitive season. One-way repeated measures analysis of variance was used to compare measures of EA (i.e., dietary intake, activity energy expenditure [EE], body composition) and EE (i.e., resting metabolic rate and thermic effect of feeding) at 4 timepoints-once in the preseason (i.e., Fall), and 3 times across the 10-week competitive season in Spring (i.e., week 1, week 5, and week 9). Significance was set at p ≤ 0.05. Although mean EA was in the subclinical zone (i.e., 30-45 kcal·kg FFM-1·d-1) at each timepoint, the prevalence of LEA for individuals was 30.8% in the preseason, 37.5% at week 1, 25.0% at week 5, and 62.5% at week 9. Further, carbohydrate intake was below the recommended range for power athletes at each timepoint, suggesting that female beach volleyball athletes with LEA may benefit from increasing carbohydrate intake. Despite no statistical differences in body mass across the season (p = 0.577), there was a trend for increasing fat-free mass (p = 0.062) as the season progressed. Importantly, LEA is not a team-wide condition but an individual one. Therefore, approaches to mitigate LEA should be individualized.

Regional Disparities in the Efficacy of Renewable Energy Development for Alleviating Energy Poverty in Indonesia: An In-depth Analysis

Regional Disparities in the Efficacy of Renewable Energy Development for Alleviating Energy Poverty in Indonesia: An In-depth Analysis

The power of digitalization: a study of the effect of the digital economy on household energy poverty

The power of digitalization: a study of the effect of the digital economy on household energy poverty

Integrated transcriptomic hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis network analysis reveals the role of energy availability on egg production in layers

Integrated transcriptomic hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis network analysis reveals the role of energy availability on egg production in layers

Examining the Energy-Growth Dynamics in Saudi Arabia: Insights and Policy Implications

The empirical relationship between energy consumption and economic growth is complex and varies by country and model specification. This study focuses on Saudi Arabia, one of the largest producers and exporters of crude oil, to explore this relationship. Our analysis refutes the Energy-Kuznets Curve hypothesis for Saudi Arabia, finding neither a linear nor a curvilinear relationship between economic growth and energy consumption. Instead, we observe an asymmetric impact of economic growth on energy consumption: the rate of increase in energy consumption with rising per capita income differs from the rate of decrease when per capita income falls. Additionally, the study reveals a positive impact of investment on energy consumption, indicating a dynamic interplay between economic growth, industrial activity, and improved energy access. These findings suggest that energy consumption patterns in Saudi Arabia are intricately linked to economic fluctuations but are not uniformly predictable. Policy recommendations are provided to address these complexities and promote sustainable growth.

Enabling modern bioenergy deployment in Nigeria to support industry and local communities

Nigeria intends to rank among the top 20 global economies by 2030 by focusing on industrialisation. However, limiting energy access may slow the rate of industrialisation. Bioenergy integration into Nigeria's energy mix can accelerate the industrialisation agenda due to the co-benefits it offers. We used a disaggregated approach to map agri-residue availability and identify knowledge gaps in agri-residue application to support modern and sustainable bioenergy integration into Nigeria's energy mix. Expert interviews with stakeholders from government departments, small- and large-scale industries, and feedstock producers were used to validate the biomass mapping. The output of the biomass mapping shows that residues from yam, sorghum, wheat, palm, cassava, rice, sugarcane, etc, have knowledge gaps in agri-residue application and they could support the industrialisation agenda of Nigeria. The output of the stakeholder engagement shows that fossil fuels are the main energy source for productive uses in Nigeria. Current waste management practices involve onsite burning and disposal on land. Bioenergy technologies currently deployed in Nigeria are predominantly anaerobic digestion and combustion. Stakeholders have a strong preference for electricity to be the predominant energy vector. However, awareness of modern bioenergy applications and technologies was limited even though Nigeria's Energy Masterplan supports the efficient use of biomass to generate clean heat, electricity and biofuel for industrial, transport and household applications. Based on these findings, we have developed a suite of novel bioenergy case studies to support biomass integration into Nigeria's energy system.

Male Endurance Athletes: Examination of Energy and Carbohydrate Availability and Hormone Responses

Background: This study investigated the effects of decreased energy availability (EA) and carbohydrate availability (CA) on reproductive and metabolic hormones in male endurance-trained athletes. Methods: Thirteen athletes (age: 26.08 ± 4.3 years; weight: 70.9 ± 6.5 kg; height: 179.9 ± 4.2 cm) participated in two training weeks with varying training volumes (low [LV] and high [HV]). The participants logged their diet and exercise for seven days and provided blood samples to measure hormone levels (Testosterone [T], insulin, leptin, cortisol, and interleukin-6 [IL-6]). Results: Results showed that 46.2% (HV) and 38.5% (LV) of participants were at risk for low EA (≤25 kcal/kg FFM·d-1), while 53.8% (HV) and 69.2% (LV) had low CA (<6 g/kg). Strong positive correlations were found between leptin and body fat percentage (DXABFP) in both weeks (HV: r(11) = 0.88, p < 0.001; LV: r(11) = 0.93, p < 0.001). Moderate correlations were observed between T and DXABFP (r(11) = 0.56, p = 0.05) and negative correlations between leptin and fat intake (r(11) = −0.60, p = 0.03). Regression analyses indicated significant relationships between DXABFP and T (F(1,11) = 4.91, p = 0.049), leptin (HV: F(1,11) = 40.56, p < 0.001; LV: F(1,11) = 74.67, p < 0.001), and cortisol (F(1,11) = 6.69, p = 0.025). Conclusions: These findings suggest that monitoring body composition and macronutrients can be clinically useful for male athletes, especially those without access to blood testing. Ultimately, a greater understanding of health and performance outcomes for male athletes is needed.

Influence of Carbohydrate Intake on Different Parameters of Soccer Players’ Performance: Systematic Review

Background: The objective of this systematic review is to analyze the influence of carbohydrate (CHO) intake on physical and technical aspects, glucose and muscle glycogen levels, fatigue, cognition, and gastrointestinal comfort involved in the performance of soccer players, as well as to examine whether there are any differences between men and women. Methods: A bibliographic search was conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and SportDiscus, resulting in 61 selected articles. The PRISMA recommendations and the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews guidelines were followed. Results: The results indicate that CHO intake before and during the match improves speed and the number of sprints, attenuates the decrease in shooting accuracy and speed, increases time to fatigue, and enhances cognitive function. There is no consensus on passing, dribbling, jumping, or agility improvements. Glucose levels drop during the first 15 min of the second half without affecting performance. Conclusions: It is recommended that players ingest 6–8 g/kg/d of CHO the day before, a meal with 1–3 g/kg 3–4 h before, and 30–60 g/h during the match. Muscle glycogen drops drastically at the end of the match, remaining low at 48 h. Hence, 1–1.5 g/kg/h is recommended during the first 4 h, starting from the first 20 min. Female soccer players have a similar physical demand to men, and energy availability is low, especially in the post-match periods, as they underestimate their energy expenditure and do not consume enough CHO. Therefore, the recommended guidelines should be followed, individualized, and periodized according to each athlete’s energy needs.

The distinct mechanism regulating taurine homeostasis in mice: Nutrient availability affects taurine levels in the liver and energy restriction influences it in the intestine

AimsOur previous findings indicate that caloric restriction (CR) stimulates the production and secretion of taurine-conjugated bile acids in mice. Subsequent processing by gut microbiota leads to increased levels of deconjugated bile acids, taurine, and various taurine conjugates in the intestine. Furthermore, we demonstrated that carbohydrate restriction and protein restriction, to a smaller extent, mirror the impact of CR in terms of hepatic production of bile acids but not their secretion. We hypothesized that modulating dietary macronutrient levels would influence taurine homeostasis in the liver and intestine of ad libitum-fed and CR animals. Materials and methodsAd libitum-fed male mice were allocated to receive either a control, low-protein (LP), low-fat (LF), or low-carbohydrate (LC) diet. Meanwhile, CR groups were given 80 % of their regular voluntary food intake as a control, high-protein (HP), high-fat (HF), or high-carbohydrate (HC) diet. Key findingsWhile CR did not affect the taurine levels and its conjugates in the liver, alteration in carbohydrates and protein intake impacted it. Conversely, in the intestine, CR increased the amount of free and conjugated taurine, whereas the various diets did not affect it or disrupt the CR-specific phenotype. Notably, variations in diet composition impacted the expression of the taurine transporter (Slc6a6) and glutathione-S transferases (GST) in the intestine as well as cysteine dioxygenase (Cdo) in the liver. SignificanceThe liver and the intestine show distinct responses to dietary interventions, with hepatic taurine being affected by the diet composition, while intestinal taurine is governed by energy availability.

Harvesting the sun twice: Energy, food and water benefits from agrivoltaics in East Africa

Food, energy and water insecurity are concomitant challenges facing many communities in East Africa. Agrivoltaic systems – agriculture integrated with photovoltaic panels – address all three challenges, providing low carbon electricity, food production and water conservation on the same land area. Agrivoltaics have proven benefits for the food-energy-water nexus in the USA, Europe and Asia, but research is lacking in sub-Saharan Africa, where energy access remains low, and climate change and water scarcity threaten food systems. This study presents evidence for concomitant electricity generation, food production and water conservation from agrivoltaic systems in Tanzania and Kenya, demonstrating the viability of these systems for both grid-tied agribusinesses and rural, off-grid communities. Performance of some crops improved under agrivoltaics, generating higher incomes for farmers and agribusinesses while reducing energy bills and/or enhancing energy supply. Crop survivability during a warm period was greater under the agrivoltaic system, indicating potential for climate change resilience. Panel shading reduced irrigation demand, thus some crops achieved greater yields while needing less water input. Rainwater harvesting from panel runoff further reduced irrigation needs. Combining energy infrastructure with agriculture enhanced land productivity for all crops at both sites. Agrivoltaics, whether grid-tied or off-grid, could address multiple Sustainable Development Goals in East Africa simultaneously by contributing to energy security, climate change-resilient food production, and water conservation in the region.

Female Athlete Triad: Understanding the Interrelationship between Energy Availability, Menstrual Function, and Bone Health

The Female Athlete Triad (FAT) is a complex medical condition characterized by three interrelated components: low energy availability (EA) with or without disordered eating, menstrual dysfunction, and decreased bone mineral density (BMD). This syndrome is particularly prevalent among female athletes who engage in sports that prioritize leanness, endurance, and aesthetic performance, such as gymnastics, dance, and long-distance running. Prolonged exposure to inadequate caloric intake relative to energy expenditure can disrupt hormonal regulation, leading to irregular or absent menstrual cycles (amenorrhea) and compromising bone health. This cross-sectional study aims to investigate the prevalence and impact of low EA on menstrual function and BMD among 180 female athletes aged 18-30 years. Participants were divided into three menstrual status categories: eumenorrhea, oligomenorrhea, and amenorrhea. The study also categorized athletes into sports groups (aesthetic, endurance, and power sports) to identify patterns across different disciplines. Data collection included dietary intake records, exercise logs, menstrual history questionnaires, and DEXA scans to measure BMD at the lumbar spine and hip. Results indicate that 67% of participants exhibited low EA (< 30 kcal/kgFFM/day), which was significantly associated with menstrual dysfunction (p < 0.001). Among participants, 25% reported oligomenorrhea (irregular cycles), and another 25% experienced amenorrhea (absence of menstruation for more than three months). BMD analysis revealed that 30% of the athletes had osteopenia, while 5% were diagnosed with osteoporosis, highlighting the long-term risks associated with chronic low EA and menstrual irregularities. Notably, athletes engaged in aesthetic sports had the highest prevalence of low EA (80%) and menstrual dysfunction (45%), followed closely by those in endurance sports. These findings underscore the urgent need for targeted interventions to promote energy balance, safeguard reproductive health, and prevent bone deterioration among female athletes. Educational programs focusing on nutritional counseling, regular monitoring of menstrual health, and multidisciplinary care involving coaches, sports dietitians, and healthcare providers are essential to mitigate the risks of the Female Athlete Triad. Future research should further explore psychological factors influencing energy availability, including body image concerns and disordered eating patterns, to develop comprehensive prevention strategies.

Impacting Non-Covalent Interactions through Vibrational Strong Coupling.

Light-matter strong coupling, especially Vibrational Strong Coupling (VSC), has become a significant research focus due to its potential to alter materials' inherent physical and chemical properties. Remarkably, VSC operates even in the absence of light, harnessing subtle quantum fluctuations to influence material characteristics. Vibro-polaritonic states, which are half photonic and half material, are introduced in the molecular/material energy ladder under VSC conditions. Although the underlying mechanism remains elusive, it is proposed that these hybrid states may modify chemical reactivity and other properties by altering factors such as polarity, polarizability, and Van der Waals interactions. This evolving field, vibro-polaritonic chemistry, holds vast potential for deeper exploration, particularly within molecular sciences. This Review examines VSC's observed effects on non-bonding interactions, including hydrogen bonding and π-π interactions, typically governed by dispersive forces.

Decentralized Clean Energy for Rural India: The Role of Small Modular Reactors

India's rapid development and expanding population have intensified the need for sustainable energy solutions. This is particularly significant in addressing the growing disparity in energy access between urban and rural communities. As the country shifts from traditional fossil-fuel-based power generation to cleaner technologies, nuclear energy is poised to play an increasingly vital role. Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) represent a promising option to meet these energy demands in a decentralized and environmentally friendly manner, especially in rural regions. In this perspective article, we explore the technological, economic, social, and environmental advantages of deploying SMRs in rural India. SMRs offer the potential for faster and cheaper build, as well as stable and reliable power, which is essential for driving economic growth in underdeveloped areas. However, several challenges need to be addressed, including regulatory and legislative hurdles that could impede the integration of SMRs into the existing energy mix. This article also suggests solutions such as leveraging India’s existing reactor technology expertise, utilizing the mature supply chain framework, co-locating SMRs with renewable energy sources, and advocating for necessary regulatory and legislative reforms. These would help SMRs serve as a crucial bridge in facilitating a smoother transition from fossil fuel plants to clean energy technologies, particularly in underserved rural communities.

Multipath Routing with Dynamic Load Balancing for Enhanced Energy Efficiency in Zone-Based Wireless Ad Hoc Networks

Mobile Ad hoc Networks (MANETs) consist of independent, self-organized mobile nodes capable of wirelessly communicating with each other in a reliable and secure manner. One of the major challenges in MANETs is energy consumption, as the lifetime of a node's battery is limited. This limitation can affect both network connectivity and the lifetime of individual nodes. Various protocols, proposed by the IETF and other solution providers, have aimed to optimize bandwidth, transmission quality, and power control, but none have significantly improved energy consumption. In response to these challenges, the proposed protocol is the Dynamic Load Balancing in Multipath Energy-Consuming Routing Protocol (DLB-MERP) for Wireless Ad hoc Networks. DLB-MERP can be viewed as an extension of the AOMDV protocol and is classified as a zone-based routing protocol, though it incorporates superior load balancing and energy management techniques. It introduces the concept of virtual zones to manage and distribute energy consumption in an organized way. The protocol selects communication paths based on the availability of node energy and power levels. A leader node is defined within each zone, chosen based on its energy level, load, and channel strength, to optimize energy usage. This method increases network resiliency through multipath routing, thereby enhancing overall network performance and extending network lifetime. DLB-MERP effectively addresses the limitations of existing energy-aware routing methodologies by balancing energy consumption, leading to prolonged network operation.