Energy Cost Research Articles

The Influence of Cuprum (II) Acetate (Cu (CH3COO)2) Dopant and Heating Temperature in The Fabrication of Thin Films of Barium Strontium Titanate (Ba0.4Sr0.6TiO3)

Abstract Barium Strontium Titanate (BST), or BaxSr1-xTiO3, is an excellent ferroelectric material that is widely used on thin film applications in microelectronic devices, making BST very essential to the tech industries. This research aims to fabricate Cuprum doped BST thin films at low temperature using the Chemical Solution Deposition (CSD) and spin coating technique, and then to analyze the thin film’s band gap energy from the UV-Vis curve, XRD Spectral and EDAX. The advantage lies in the use of low temperatures in which it allows a significant energy savings compared to other studies. Using the Kubelka-Munk method with the Tauc Plot relation, the bandgap energy values for each BST substrates were obtained. Without Cuprum (II) Acetate dopant, the Band Gap values of the thin film samples are 3.84 eV and 3.77 eV. With 3% concentration of Cuprum (II) Acetate dopant, we obtained smaller Band Gap values, which are 3.74 eV and 3.71 eV. Based on the XRD spectral analysis, the lattice parameters were determined with a tetragonal crystal structure. However, according to the EDAX analysis, the elemental composition obtained is not yet stoichiometric. This research is important to serve as a reference for other researchers and manufacturers to opt into fabrication of thin films with lower energy cost, provide guidance for researchers to have more flexibility in their own thin film fabrication.

The Influence of Elite Race Walkers’ Year-Long Training on Changes in Total Energy and Energy Cost While Walking at Different Speeds

The aim of the study was to assess the influence of year-long training of race walkers on physiological cost and total energy center of mass (CoM). The assessment performed was based on indicating the differences between the resulting energy cost in a group of elite race walkers walking at technical, threshold, and racing speeds calculated by physiological and biomechanical methods before beginning and after finishing a year-long training cycle. The study involved 12 competitive race walkers who had achieved champion or international champion level. Their aerobic endurance was determined by means of a direct method, applying an incremental exercise test on the treadmill. The gait of the participants was recorded using the 3D Vicon analysis system. Changes in mechanical energy amounted to the value of the total external work of the muscles needed to accelerate and lift the center of mass during a normalized gait cycle. The highest influence on the total external work increase for increasing speeds of gait in both examinations was attributed to the changes in the kinetic energy resulting from the center of mass movement. A statistically significant decrease of the mean value of total external work for racing speed was observed in the second examination (p < 0.001). An approx. 8% decrease (NS) of EE energy cost, standardized by body mass and distance covered, was found between the first and second examinations. The energy cost and total external work were significantly differentiated by the walkers’ gait speeds (p < 0.05–0.001). The energy cost significantly differed from the total external work at p < 0.001.

A deterministic fluid model for production and energy mode control of a single machine

Improving machines’ energy efficiency through dynamic energy mode control to meet demand requirements with minimal energy consumption is a promising approach. This study considers a machine operating in working, idle, off, and warmup energy modes with different energy consumption in each mode. A deterministic fluid model is developed to analyze an energy mode control policy that determines when to keep the machine working, off or idle, and switch to other modes based on the inventory/backlog level to minimize the total energy, inventory, and backlog costs. This approach facilitates the derivation of closed-form expressions for the optimal thresholds and the associated costs. This modeling approach allows us to prove that a policy that operates the machine between the working and off modes or the working and idle modes is always better than a hybrid policy that operates the machine in working, off, and idle modes simultaneously. We use the solution of the deterministic fluid model to propose an approximate policy for machines with stochastic production, warmup, and demand processes. We compare the results of the proposed approximation method with the optimal solution of a stochastic system where the production and warmup times are exponential and the demand inter-arrival times have Erlang distribution. The optimal solution for the stochastic system is determined by solving a Markovian Decision Process (MDP). Our numerical experiments show that the proposed approximation method predicts the optimal policy type for the stochastic case with a 89.3% accuracy, and the average error between the optimal cost and the cost obtained with the approximation method is 1.37% for 729 different cases tested. Furthermore, the computational efficiency of the proposed approximation is around 250 times better than the effort to determine the optimal policy using an MDP approach. We propose this approximation method where the control parameters are given in closed form as an easy-to-implement and effective policy to control energy modes to minimize the total energy, inventory, and backlog costs. Furthermore, we present the deterministic fluid modeling approach as a versatile approach to analyze energy mode control problems.

Evaluating conventional and renewable energy systems for green buildings: A case study on energy efficiency and cost optimization

This study explores two primary categories of power generation: conventional methods reliant on fossil fuels and renewable energy methods. Fossil fuel-based approaches, including natural gas and heavy fuel oil, contribute to environmental concerns due to their carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, which are responsible for the greenhouse effect and global warming. Many nations, particularly in Europe, have implemented stringent measures to restrict CO2 emissions, imposing fines on industries that exceed emission limits. In response to these concerns, this study focuses on a green building project that aims to meet its power requirements through renewable energy sources. Various renewable energy resources will be evaluated, considering the merits and drawbacks of each technology, to identify the most suitable option for the building under investigation. Additionally, a comprehensive thermodynamic analysis will be conducted, including calculations of electrical needs such as cooling load, lighting load, and equipment load. A customized power calculator will also be developed for application in similar projects. The ultimate objective of this study is to achieve complete autonomy from the electric grid by utilizing renewable energy resources, transforming the building into a green building. The results indicate that at an outside temperature of 22 °C, the total heat gain decreases from 157.3 to 39 kW, reducing the total cost of electricity from 20,000 to 5100 AED/year. Conversely, at an outside temperature of 50 °C, the total heat gain increases from 157.3 to 196 kW, raising the total cost of electricity from 20,000 to 26,000 AED/year. These findings demonstrate the significant influence of outside temperature on the building's energy requirements and costs, underscoring the importance of considering temperature variations in energy efficiency and cost optimization strategies.

Experimental Study on the Effect of Skin Friction Drag and Convective Heat Transfer for Viscoelastic and Pseudoplastic Fluid Flow

Drag Reducing Agents (DRAs) have a huge impact and major concern in engineering and industrial applications. It makes the fluid flow turbulent to laminar, dampens eddy reduces head loss by up to a certain limit, and saves pumping energy costs. Viscosity is the property that dampens eddy due to the viscous effect, which increases the fluidity up to a certain limit. Pseudoplasticity is the shear thinning effect that decreases viscosity when the flow rate increases. So, for the viscoelastic effect, we can increase the concentration up to a certain limit to reduce head loss. Still, during flow due to the pseudoplastic effect, the viscosity will start decreasing which is a negative effect. So, these combined effects are studied to reduce skin friction drag in the pipeline and save energy costs which will be convenient for the food industry, chemical, and medicine industries. In this investigation, investigation is carried out for 0.3 g/L, 0.2 g/L, and 0.15 g/L of xanthan gum in turbulent flow to observe the pressure drop and heat transfer rate. The study reveals that after increasing viscosity the pressure drop reduced significantly. Conversely, the heat transfer rate was also reduced due to the poor mixing effect. A higher performance and less vibration of the pump was also observed. It was concluded that the frictional pressure drop was reduced up to 85 % and the heat transfer rate was reduced by up to 90% by increasing the concentration of the DRA up to 0.3 g/L at 10 LPM than the pure water or base fluid as a working substance on the double pipe heat exchanger. As the heat transfer rate reduced up to 90% with reducing pressure drop another aim of the study was to establish a concentration and flowrate for which the heat transfer rate is maximum and it was found at a concentration of 0.15 g/L of DRAs (drag reducing agents) at 22 LPM (maximum flowrate at this setup).

Crushing behavior and energy absorption of node self-locked Kagome honeycomb

This work proposes a self-locked Kagome honeycomb (SLKH) structure to realize better balance between energy absorption and cost efficiency. The structure uses a simple and creative bending preparation method to form a triangle nested self-locking pattern with distinct layers, rich shapes, easy assembly, flexibility and efficiency. The quasi-static experiments and numerical simulations are employed to investigate the energy absorption behavior and dynamic response. Numerical analysis is conducted to reveal the influence of cell size, angle at the connecting plate, and number of bent plates on the energy absorption performance of SLKH. Additionally, a theoretical estimation model for mean crushing force of SLKH structure is established, providing guidance for efficient parameter design and selection. The results demonstrate that the SLKH exhibits superior energy absorption performance with low cost.

Optimization of Solar PV System Efficiency in Bangladesh

This paper presents a comprehensive review and analysis of Sarishabari Engreen Solar Plant Ltd., a 3.3 MW grid-connected solar photovoltaic (PV) system located in Sarishabari, Jamalpur, Bangladesh. The study evaluates the plant's economic and operational performance, revealing a competitive payback period of 10.1 years and a levelized cost of energy (LCOE) of 0.11 USD/kWh. These metrics highlight the plant's financial viability, largely due to the low cost of public land used for construction. However, profitability may be challenged if similar projects require significant investments in private land acquisition. Key areas for improvement identified include optimizing the tilt angle and integrating smart automation systems. Additionally, the potential for hybrid renewable energy systems combining solar and wind power is discussed. The paper also provides actionable recommendations for future renewable projects, emphasizing the importance of advanced technologies, and supportive policies. These insights aim to inform the optimization of existing solar PV systems and guide the development of future renewable energy projects in Bangladesh, contributing to the country's sustainable energy goals.

A model for assessing the economic impact of renewable energy adoption in traditional oil and gas companies

The adoption of renewable energy presents significant economic implications for traditional oil and gas companies. This paper proposes a model for assessing the economic impact of integrating renewable energy into traditional oil and gas operations, focusing on cost efficiency, revenue potential, and overall financial performance. The model evaluates key metrics, including capital investment, operational cost savings, revenue generation from renewable energy projects, and potential impacts on profitability and shareholder value. By incorporating various renewable technologies such as solar, wind, and geothermal, the model provides a comprehensive framework for understanding the financial benefits and challenges associated with transitioning to cleaner energy sources. The model incorporates both direct and indirect economic impacts, such as reduced energy costs, enhanced energy security, and improved corporate reputation. It also considers the effects of regulatory incentives, including tax credits and subsidies, which can influence the financial viability of renewable energy projects. Additionally, the model examines potential risks and uncertainties, such as market volatility and technological limitations, which can affect the economic outcomes of renewable energy investments. Case studies of traditional oil and gas companies that have successfully integrated renewable energy are analyzed to illustrate the practical application of the model. These case studies demonstrate how companies have achieved cost reductions, diversified revenue streams, and enhanced their long-term financial resilience through renewable energy adoption. The paper concludes that while the initial investment in renewable energy technologies can be substantial, the long-term economic benefits—including cost savings, revenue growth, and alignment with sustainability goals—can significantly outweigh the challenges. By adopting the proposed model, oil and gas companies can better assess the economic implications of renewable energy integration and make informed decisions to drive sustainable growth and profitability.

아파트 관리 애플리케이션 인터페이스 디자인 비교·분석 연구 - 국내 아파트 앱을 중심으로

Recently, among the O2O mobile application services, apartment management apps that provide convenience have been released. They are digital service apps for residents’ use; inquiry and payment of management fees, energy cost checks and non-face-to-face civil complaints are the main services provided by the apps. However, the usability or user experience of the service has not been studied yet. Thus, the purpose of this study is to present necessary improvements for U.I design for Aptner and Apti, the representative apartment app service in Korea. First of all, In the theoretical background, the concept and current status of apartment management apps and components of interface design were summarized. In addition, previous overseas studies that had been investigated were reviewed and organized, and evaluation factors that can be applied to apartment app U.I usability evaluation criteria were also derived. Second, in the analysis of the study subject, the component analysis of the interface visual design, the apartment management app questionnaire, and the usability evaluation task list were created. Third, in the research results, reasonable improvements were presented by comparing and analyzing usability evaluation factor items.

Optimal solution for PV integrated with smart grid connected fast charging EV station: A case study for Jaipur

Current research study investigates the optimal solution for integrating photovoltaic (PV) solar panels with a smart grid-connected fast-charging electric vehicle (EV) station in Jaipur, India, using HOMER software for simulation. The study aims to develop a cost-effective and sustainable charging infrastructure specifically designed for e-rickshaws and personal vehicles, targeting reduced electricity costs. The findings demonstrate that a hybrid Solar and Grid-integrated EV charging station significantly lowers operational costs while promoting renewable energy adoption. The optimized Solar + grid system, compared to a traditional grid-only model, achieves substantial savings, with an average annual energy bill reduction of ₹26,17,806. Despite an initial capital expenditure of ₹50,22,895, the system's financial viability is affirmed by a rapid payback period of 1.9 years (simple) or 2.1 years (discounted) and an impressive internal rate of return (IRR) of 51.3%. Over a 25-year project lifespan, the system is projected to generate total savings of ₹6,54,45,150. The analysis considers various financial metrics, including monthly and annual energy costs, demand charges, and fixed charges, providing a comprehensive overview of the economic benefits. The results underline the importance of incorporating solar power into EV charging stations to reduce overall energy expenses and enhance long-term sustainability. This study offers valuable insights for policymakers, energy managers, and stakeholders, highlighting the economic and environmental advantages of solar-integrated charging solutions in urban settings.

Hydrogen Refueling Stations: A Review of the Technology Involved from Key Energy Consumption Processes to Related Energy Management Strategies

Over the last few years, hydrogen has emerged as a promising solution for problems related to energy sources and pollution concerns. The integration of hydrogen in the transport sector is one of the possible various applications and involves the implementation of hydrogen refueling stations (HRSs). A key obstacle for HRS deployment, in addition to the need for well-developed technologies, is the economic factor since these infrastructures require high capital investments costs and are largely dependent on annual operating costs. In this study, we review hydrogen’s application as a fuel, summarizing the principal systems involved in HRS, from production to the final refueling stage. In addition, we also analyze the main equipment involved in the production, compression and storage processes of hydrogen. The current work also highlights the main refueling processes that impact energy consumption and the methodologies presented in the literature for energy management strategies in HRSs. With the aim of reducing energy costs due to processes that require high energy consumption, most energy management strategies are based on the use of renewable energy sources, in addition to the use of the power grid.

Multi-User Optimal Load Scheduling of Different Objectives Combined with Multi-Criteria Decision Making for Smart Grid

Load balancing between required power demand and the available generation capacity is the main task of demand response for a smart grid. Matching between the objectives of users and utilities is the main gap that should be addressed in the demand response context. In this paper, a multi-user optimal load scheduling is proposed to benefit both utility companies and users. Different objectives are considered to form a multi-objective artificial hummingbird algorithm (MAHA). The cost of energy consumption, peak of load, and user inconvenience are the main objectives considered in this work. A hybrid multi-criteria decision making method is considered to select the dominance solutions. This approach is based on the removal effects of criteria (MERECs) and is utilized for deriving appropriate weights of various criteria. Next, the Vlse Kriterijumska Optimizacija Kompromisno Resenje (VIKOR) method is used to find the best solution of load scheduling from a set of Pareto front solutions produced by MAHA. Multiple pricing schemes are applied in this work, namely the time of use (ToU) and adaptive consumption level pricing scheme (ACLPS), to test the proposed system with regards to different pricing rates. Furthermore, non-cooperative and cooperative users’ working schemes are considered to overcome the issue of making a new peak load time through shifting the user load from the peak to off-peak period to realize minimum energy cost. The results demonstrate 81% cost savings for the proposed method with the cooperative mode while using ACLPS and 40% savings regarding ToU. Furthermore, the peak saving for the same mode of operation provides about 68% and 64% for ACLPs and ToU, respectively. The finding of this work has been validated against other related contributions to examine the significance of the proposed technique. The analyses in this research have concluded that the presented approach has realized a remarkable saving for the peak power intervals and energy cost while maintaining an acceptable range of the customer inconvenience level.

Measuring Household Thermal Discomfort Time: A Japanese Case Study

This study proposes a metric to measure households’ discomfort related to thermal consumption time (hereafter referred to as t-discomfort). This metric relies on an ideal thermal consumption and calculates the gap between the usage times of thermal devices in vulnerable households compared to the ideal household. The t-discomfort is quantified using thermal data collected from 1298 households in the Tokyo and Oita prefectures in Japan. To create the ideal usage times of thermal devices, households are categorized into three clusters—Vulnerable (Vu), Semi-vulnerable (SVu), and Invulnerable (IVu)—based on their energy poverty ratio, and t-discomfort is subsequently calculated for each group. The IVu households are used as the ideal reference point for measuring thermal device usage in the other two categories. The findings of the study indicate that energy poverty does not necessarily lead to t-discomfort. Interestingly, the consumption time of heating devices among Vu households in both prefectures is longer than that of IVu households, despite the high energy prices. Conversely, SVu households, which do not experience severe energy poverty, tend to sacrifice their comfort by reducing their thermal consumption time. Additionally, the consumption time of cooling devices among Vu households in Oita is longer than that of IVu households, whereas in Tokyo, it is shorter. Two treatment strategies are evaluated to mitigate thermal discomfort in households without compromising resource availability. The first strategy integrates the thermal device consumption time with Japan’s current regulated time-of-use rates plan (daytime and nighttime). The results propose a three-tiered tariff plan (off-peak, mid-peak, and peak) to reduce the energy cost burden for Vu households. The second strategy recommends the installation of 12 rooftop solar panels for households in Tokyo and 11 panels for households in Oita. This strategy aims to maintain thermal comfort via a sustainable natural energy resource while minimizing energy costs.

Techno-economic and environmental assessment of green hydrogen and ammonia production from solar and wind energy in the republic of Djibouti: A geospatial modeling approach

This study conducts a thorough economic and technical analysis to assess the viability of green hydrogen and green ammonia production using renewable energy sources in the Republic of Djibouti. We explore the economic competitiveness of utilizing wind and solar power for sustainable energy production through various measures including levelized cost of energy (LCOE), hydrogen (LCOH), and ammonia (LCOA). Our analysis incorporates sensitivity assessments and Monte Carlo simulations to predict financial feasibility and environmental impact, focusing on CO2 emission reductions. A cost mapping of electricity, green hydrogen, and green ammonia from solar and wind resources was created to find Djibouti's most cost-effective production sites. The feasibility of exporting green ammonia to neighboring countries with high fertilizer demand was also evaluated using rail and truck transport scenarios. Key findings demonstrate that Moulouhlé, endowed with robust wind and solar resources, presents a strategic site for deploying renewable energy technologies. Wind energy, with a lower LCOE of 0.066 $/kWh compared to solar's 0.093 $/kWh, emerges as a more cost-effective solution for both hydrogen and ammonia production. Notably, wind-powered hydrogen production costs are 2.25 $/kgH2, significantly lower than solar-powered costs at 4.17 $/kgH2. In terms of green ammonia, wind power achieves production costs of 399.76 $/tonNH3, outperforming solar power which stands at 537.11 $/tonNH3. Additionally, our study evaluates the logistics of exporting green ammonia, determining rail transport as a more economically viable option than trucking. This research not only underscores Djibouti's potential as a leader in green energy exportation but also aligns with global decarbonization efforts, showcasing significant CO2 savings—154.94 Mt annually from wind. This work emphasizes the importance of strategic resource utilization in Djibouti, offering insights critical for stakeholders in making informed decisions about investing in renewable energy infrastructures. The outcomes suggest a promising future for regional energy sustainability and economic resilience, fostering a transition towards low-carbon energy systems.

Design and analysis of negative CO2 emission methanol synthesis process incorporating green hydrogen and blue hydrogen

Methanol (MeOH) production by integration of green and blue hydrogen is evaluated herein. From 2018 to 2023, methanol demand increased by 3.6 % due to its use in various chemical industries as an eco-friendly fuel and as a method of transporting hydrogen and capturing renewable CO2. Moreover, due to the continual decrease in the cost of renewable energy, research into the use of green hydrogen from electrolysis is being conducted. Most of this research has focused on producing methanol from the green hydrogen obtained from proton-exchange membrane (PEM) electrolysis along with CO2 emissions from power plants. The present study examines processes based on oxyfuel combustion with oxygen obtained from either the PEM or an air separation unit (ASU) to produce methanol. By using oxyfuel combustion, the carbon capture process (which accounts for 30–50 % of the blue hydrogen cost) and pure (>98.75 %) 7.45 tCO2/tH2 can be obtained by separating H2O from the flue gas. By using the PEM, green hydrogen can capture 0.35 tCO2/tMeOH of external CO2. Furthermore, a carbon techno-economic analysis (CTEA) and a sensitivity analysis are conducted to evaluate the sustainability and feasibility of the proposed processes. As a result, the levelized cost of methanol (LCOM) is $373.91/tMeOH for the Blue process and $428.78/tMeOH for the Blue + Green process, each of which is below the current market price of $500/tMeOH. If the PEM price continues to decrease, and the carbon credit increases by €300/tCO2, after 2030, the Blue + Green process will become more lucrative than the Blue-only process. Thus, by considering the continuous decrease in renewable energy prices, the production of methanol via a hybrid Blue + Green process is suitable for a sustainable future.

Sustainable Cost Management and Green Business: The Role of Managerial Accounting Innovations

This research explores the impact of innovations in managerial accounting on sustainable cost management, focusing on the integration of green business practices. The objectives are to analyze how technological, process, strategic, and organizational innovations contribute to cost savings and sustainability performance, and to provide recommendations for practitioners and policymakers. A quantitative research design was employed, utilizing case studies from various industries. Data collection involved detailed analysis of company reports and sustainability metrics, while statistical techniques were used for data analysis. Key findings reveal that big data analytics and real-time reporting significantly enhance energy efficiency and cost savings, aligning with existing literature on the benefits of data-driven decision-making. Activity-Based Costing (ABC) and Environmental Management Accounting (EMA) improve cost allocation accuracy and environmental cost tracking, resulting in substantial cost reductions. Strategic frameworks like the Balanced Scorecard (BSC) and Life-Cycle Costing (LCC) effectively integrate sustainability goals with business objectives, promoting long-term financial and environmental benefits. Organizational practices, including cross-functional teams and strong top management commitment, are crucial for successful sustainability initiatives. The study concludes that these innovations in managerial accounting are vital for achieving sustainable cost management. Recommendations for practitioners include investing in advanced technologies, adopting strategic costing methodologies, and fostering a collaborative organizational culture. Policymakers are advised to create incentives and regulations that encourage sustainable practices. Future research should focus on the long-term impacts of these practices, industry-specific adaptations, and the socio-economic benefits of sustainable cost management. This research contributes to the growing body of knowledge on sustainable business practices and provides practical guidance for enhancing sustainability through managerial accounting innovations.

Examining the effect of economic complexity on energy justice

A clean and healthy environment is necessary to achieve other Sustainable Development Goals. Policymakers must find ways to minimize carbon dioxide emissions and global warming before the Sustainable Development era expires. These ills are compounded by chronic inequalities in access to clean energy and the distribution of energy infrastructure, costs, and benefits. This underscores the importance of examining, addressing, and preventing various inequalities in the energy sector. Thus, this paper endeavours to examine probably for the first time the effect of economic complexity on energy justice in a panel of 62 countries over the past decade. The measure of energy justice in this study is a rarely used indicator constructed from a range of 21 sub indicators. We also use three sub-indices of energy justice: distributive justice, procedural justice, and restorative justice. The empirical analyses based on a range of robust estimation approaches consistently provide strong evidence that, on average, economic complexity improves energy justice and its three sub components. Finally, the results from the mediation analysis show that the positive effect of economic complexity on energy justice mediates through income, and human capital. Based on these results, some policy recommendations are made for the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals 7, 8, and 16.

Evaluating the techno-economic potential of large-scale green hydrogen production via solar, wind, and hybrid energy systems utilizing PEM and alkaline electrolyzers

The study evaluates the potential of solar, wind, and hybrid PV/WT renewable energy systems for green hydrogen production in four Iraqi cities. Through a comparative analysis of six distinct scenarios involving the deployment of 60 MWp solar panels, 30 MWp wind turbines, and 45 MWp hybrid PV/WT systems, the research aims to ascertain the most energy-efficient and cost-effective strategy for hydrogen generation. This evaluation is aligned with the operational capacities of two types of water electrolyzers: Alkaline (AWE) and proton exchange membrane (PEM), each with a 17.5 MWp capacity. Employing the HOMER Pro software for system simulation and optimization, and considering a project timeline from 2022 to 2042, the study identifies Anbar City as the prime location for green hydrogen production, highlighting solar PV panels as the most economical option with the lowest levelized cost of energy at US $4.5/MWh. The analysis further demonstrates that hydrogen production costs are US $1.98/kg for AWE electrolyzers and US $2.72/kg for PEM electrolyzers, with net present costs of US $26.31 million and US $35.91 million, respectively. Moreover, the annual hydrogen output is estimated at 1.11 million kg for AWE and 1.19 million kg for PEM electrolyzers. These insights significantly contribute to the strategic planning and development of Iraqi green hydrogen sector, offering a valuable framework for policymakers and stakeholders invested in sustainable energy transitions.

Enhancing climate resilience of vulnerable women in the Global South through power sharing in DC microgrids

Many women of remote communities in the Global South (GS) are highly vulnerable to natural disasters caused by climate change, due to their low adaptive capability. Inclusion of gender considerations has been emphasized in national adaptation plans and initiatives aimed at reducing vulnerability. However, the potential of low-cost electricity-based solutions in promoting climate change adaptation is largely unexplored. In countries of the GS, remote communities have adopted stand-alone solar home systems, which are often inefficient and require significant investments for upgrading. In this work, a model of an off-grid DC microgrid with distributed generation and storage is proposed, allowing individual households to obtain extra energy through neighborhood-level prosumer power sharing. The benefits of power sharing are evaluated through the development of a mixed-integer linear program using load requirements based on the World Bank's Multi-Tier Framework for household energy access. The results show that households with prosumer power sharing can access more than 60 % extra energy compared to their stand-alone status with up to 34 % reduction in Levelized Cost of Energy. Access to additional energy can allow vulnerable households to access energy services in the household to potentially improve climate change adaptation opportunities in agriculture, livelihood and educational sectors, among others.

Plunge-diving into dynamic body acceleration and energy expenditure in the Peruvian booby.

Daily energy expenditure (DEE) is the result of decisions on how to allocate time among activities (resting, commuting, and foraging) and the energy costs of those activities. Dynamic body acceleration (DBA), which measures acceleration associated with movement, can be used to estimate DEE. Previous studies of DBA-DEE correlations in birds occurred on species foraging below their thermoneutral zone, potentially decoupling the DBA-DEE relationship. We used doubly-labelled water (DLW) to validate the use of DBA on plunge-diving seabirds, Peruvian boobies (Sula variegata), foraging in waters above their thermoneutral zone (>19 °C). Mass-specific DEEDLW in boobies was 1.12 kJ/d/g, and higher in males than in females. DBA alone provided the best fitting model to estimate mass-specific DEEDLW compared to models partitioned per activity and time-budget models. Nonetheless, the model parametrizing activity at and away of their onshore breeding colony was the most parsimonious model (r=0.6). This r value, although high, is lower than all other avian studies, implying that temperature is not the main cause of DBA-DEE decoupling in birds. Time at the colony (∼80% of the day) was the largest contributor to DEE as it was the most time-consuming activity and involved nest defense. However, foraging was the most power-consuming activity (4.6 times higher activity-specific metabolic rate than resting at the colony), and commuting-flight was higher than in other gliding seabirds. In short, DBA alone can act as a proxy for DEE, opening avenues to measure the conservation energetics of this seabird in the rapidly-changing Peruvian Humboldt Current System.