Energy Demand Research Articles

Metabolic Reprogramming in Gliocyte Post-cerebral Ischemia/ Reperfusion: From Pathophysiology to Therapeutic Potential.

Ischemic stroke is a leading cause of disability and death worldwide. However, the clinical efficacy of recanalization therapy as a preferred option is significantly hindered by reperfusion injury. The transformation between different phenotypes of gliocytes is closely associated with cerebral ischemia/ reperfusion injury (CI/RI). Moreover, gliocyte polarization induces metabolic reprogramming, which refers to the shift in gliocyte phenotype and the overall transformation of the metabolic network to compensate for energy demand and building block requirements during CI/RI caused by hypoxia, energy deficiency, and oxidative stress. Within microglia, the pro-inflammatory phenotype exhibits upregulated glycolysis, pentose phosphate pathway, fatty acid synthesis, and glutamine synthesis, whereas the anti-inflammatory phenotype demonstrates enhanced mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation and fatty acid oxidation. Reactive astrocytes display increased glycolysis but impaired glycogenolysis and reduced glutamate uptake after CI/RI. There is mounting evidence suggesting that manipulation of energy metabolism homeostasis can induce microglial cells and astrocytes to switch from neurotoxic to neuroprotective phenotypes. A comprehensive understanding of underlying mechanisms and manipulation strategies targeting metabolic pathways could potentially enable gliocytes to be reprogrammed toward beneficial functions while opening new therapeutic avenues for CI/RI treatment. This review provides an overview of current insights into metabolic reprogramming mechanisms in microglia and astrocytes within the pathophysiological context of CI/RI, along with potential pharmacological targets. Herein, we emphasize the potential of metabolic reprogramming of gliocytes as a therapeutic target for CI/RI and aim to offer a novel perspective in the treatment of CI/RI.

An artificial intelligence framework for explainable drift detection in energy forecasting

Accurate energy consumption forecasting is crucial for reducing operational costs, achieving net-zero carbon emissions, and ensuring sustainable buildings and cities of the future. Despite the frequent use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) algorithms for learning energy consumption patterns and predictions in Building Science, relying solely on these techniques for energy demand prediction addresses only a fraction of the challenge. A drift in energy usage can lead to inaccuracies in these AI models and subsequently to poor decision-making and interventions. While drift detection techniques have been reported, a reliable and robust approach capable of explaining identified discrepancies with actionable insights has not been discussed in extant literature. Hence, this paper presents an Artificial Intelligence framework for energy consumption forecasting with explainable drift detection, aimed at addressing these challenges. The proposed framework is composed of energy embeddings, an optimized dimensional model integrated within a data warehouse, and scalable cloud implementation for effective drift detection with explainability capability. The framework is empirically evaluated in the real-world setting of a multi-campus, mixed-use tertiary education setting in Victoria, Australia. The results of these experiments highlight its capabilities in detecting concept drift, adapting forecast predictions, and providing an interpretation of the changes using energy embeddings.

Improvement in electrochemical performance of SrTiO3 with rGO via composite (SrTiO3/rGO) strategy fabricated via solvothermal approach

Developing sustainable and highly effective electrocatalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is a significant research target for precise custody of water splitting to fulfill worldwide energy demands. This study focuses on the fabrication of SrTiO3/rGO-based composite via a solvothermal technique, which works as an electrocatalyst for evaluating the efficiency of OER in alkaline media. The material displays outstanding OER efficacy in 1 M KOH solution, with its cubic structure validated by the X-ray diffraction (XRD) study. The electrochemical study reveals that the SrTiO3/rGO composite has a minimal overpotential (222 mV) compared to SrTiO3 (289 mV) and the commercial catalyst RuO2 (367 mV). The SrTiO3/rGO composite also has a minimal Tafel plot gradient of 37 mV dec−1 whereas RuO2 has a Tafel value of 72 mV dec−1. The current material has superior properties compared to RuO2, a commercial catalyst for the OER. The SrTiO3/rGO composite shows exceptional stability for 40 h. The low conductivity of oxygen-deficient SrTiO3 perovskite can be improved by incorporating carbon-based rGO into it, as demonstrated by the minimal Rct (0.07 Ω) obtained from electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) analysis and an enlarged surface area of 250 cm2, as evidenced by electrochemical surface area (ECSA). Therefore, our research indicates that a particular morphology of metal oxide can improve the efficiency of electrocatalysis when combined with reduced graphene oxide (rGO), suggesting its potential for generating effective and environmentally friendly energy. Hence, these findings may improve the smooth passage of electrons and provide a novel perspective to function as an adequate substitute for RuO2, a commercial catalyst.

Integrated rehabilitation of reinforced concrete buildings: Combining seismic retrofit by means of low-damage exoskeleton and energy refurbishment using multi-functional prefabricated facade

The European building stock was mostly built before the mid-20th century and is characterized by buildings with high energy demand and high seismic vulnerability. Integrated upgrading interventions are therefore urgently needed for moving towards a more resilient community. In this study, rehabilitation interventions are proposed for reinforced concrete buildings to improve their energy efficiency as well as their structural/seismic performance. An integrated refurbishment aiming at structural, architectural, and energy upgrading is targeted. Energy retrofitting with multifunctional wood-based prefabricated modular facades has been evaluated, as capable of reducing heat consumption by an average of 84 % in different climate zones. More specifically, an exoskeleton system consisting of Prestressed Laminated timber (Pres-Lam) technology is considered, which will act as a structural support-skeleton system for a high-performance “double-skin” solution composed of prefabricated panels. This solution can reduce the seismic risk class in high seismic zones. The seismic-energetic integrated intervention is developed for a representative case study building and evaluated with reference to different climates and seismic zones. Furthermore, a preliminary cost-benefit analysis of the integrated solution has been performed, showing higher benefits when compared to the sole energy retrofit. Specifically, considering the seismic retrofit interventions, the cost analysis pointed out that moving up to higher-use classes results in higher performance and costs. Nevertheless, approximately comparable breakeven times have been obtained in the same seismic region by achieving higher targets. The proposed integrated solution is a promising alternative to demolition and reconstruction, providing a deep energy renovation and structural retrofit, avoiding inevitable waste production, additional energy consumption, and C02 emissions; and allowing for a sustainable renovation of the existing building stock.

Low temperature pyrolysis of waste cooking oil using marble waste for bio-jet fuel production

Limestone powder, a by-product of top-down marble processing, exhibited high thermal stability and functionality as catalysts for the low-temperature pyrolysis of waste cooking oil (WCO) into biofuel. The marble waste (MW) contains calcite, dolomite, and quartz composites (CaCO3/MgCO3/SiO2) as non-uniform microcrystallites. Pyrolysis at 380 °C in 1 h increased the hydrocarbon composition of biofuel and reduced carboxylic acid. The biofuel composition contains 80 % hydrocarbon within the jet fuel C8-16 ranges. MW reduced the carboxylic acid concentration from 49 % in catalyst-free pyrolysis to less than 4 %. The optimum condition was obtained at 3 % MW, yielding 43.55 % linear hydrocarbon, 11.1 % cyclic hydrocarbon, and 1.02 % aromatic compounds that satisfied the bio-jet fuel classification. The incorporation of varying percentages of marble waste demonstrates a significant enhancement in the cyclic compounds, elevating the yield from ∼3 % in catalyst-free pyrolysis to an impressive ∼35 %. The hydrocarbon yield is higher when using 3%MW > 1%MW > 6%MW > 9%MW. Dolomite and calcite mixture in MW catalyzed triglyceride conversion to hydrocarbon by adsorbing carbonate in triglycerides to drive C–O bond dissociation. These studies provide a roadmap for the utilization of abundant resources locally available in Indonesia to sustain local energy demand.

A First Principles Study of Stability, Electronic and Thermoelectric Characteristics of Novel High Temperature Half- Heusler Alloys ScAgX (X=Si,Ge,Sn)

To meet the ever-increasing renewable energy demand Half- Heusler (HH) materials can be a potential candidate. Heusler materials are seeking popularity as efficient high-temperature thermoelectric materials. Here we systematically investigated the structural, electronic, mechanical and thermoelectric properties of novel HH compounds ScAgX (X=Si,Ge,Sn) in the framework of the first principles approach. These materials are found to be chemically, mechanically and dynamically stable. Born-Oppenheimer molecular dynamics simulations (BOMD) verify the thermal stability of these materials from 300K to 1100K. The semiconducting nature of these materials is confirmed by the electronic band structure. ScAgX (X=Si,Ge,Sn) have an indirect band gap of 0.37 eV, 0.42 eV and 0.38 eV respectively. A high value of Seebeck coefficient of 6351 μV/K, 6955 μV/K and 6558 μV/K has been obtained at room temperature. ScAgSi shows a high value of electrical conductivity (∼106 S/m) among these compounds at room temperature. The calculated value of the figure of merit (ZT) of ScAgX (X=Si,Ge,Sn) is 0.12, 0.08 and 0.16 at 1100K respectively. Our present investigation shows that these materials can be a potential candidate for high-temperature thermoelectric power generation.

Dual function sMoS2-cellulose/PVDF-based membrane for energy generation and pollutant removal

Fostering the creation of clean energy technologies that eliminate gas emissions and positively impact the environment is vital for confronting the dual challenges of escalating energy demands and environmental contaminants. Membrane-based technologies have emerged as effective strategies for harvesting clean energy and practically purifying water from contaminated wastewater. Here, we show that polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF) with functionalized molybdenum disulfide (sMoS2) and nanocellulose (NC) is an attractive membrane for single-chamber air cathode microbial fuel cells (MFCs). Compared with conventional proton exchange membranes, our membrane boosts power generation up to 48.5 mW m−2 and efficiently catalyzes sonocatalytic dye degradation with 96 % efficiency when treating wastewater. This performance is due to a relatively high hydrophilicity, ion exchange capacity (0.84 meq. g−1), and proton conductivity (1.03 × 10−2 S cm−1), combined with reduced oxygen permeability (27 × 1012 cm·s−1) compared with conventional membranes. The synergy effect of the PVDF matrix and sMoS2 + NC promotes proton transfer, enhancing electricity generation and pollutant degradation. The membrane shows promising stability and mechanical properties 42.04 MPa, offering a viable membrane for improved energy recovery from wastewater treatment.

Catalyst Development for Biogas Dry Reforming: A Review of Recent Progress

Amidst the rapid expansion of the global economy, the demand for energy has escalated. The depletion of traditional energy sources coupled with environmental pollution concerns has catalyzed a shift towards the development and utilization of clean, renewable energy. Biogas, as a renewable energy source, provides diverse applications and holds the potential to alleviate energy shortages. Recently, biogas dry reforming technology has garnered substantial attention as a significant pathway for renewable energy utilization, particularly in the development and optimization of catalysts. Contemporary research predominantly focuses on enhancing the activity and stability of catalysts, with particular emphasis on their resistance to coking and sintering. This review delineates the classification of biogas dry reforming catalysts, their catalytic activity, and issues related to carbon deposition, contrasting biogas dry reforming with traditional dry reforming in catalyst design. It synthesizes numerous studies from recent years aimed at mitigating carbon deposition during the biogas dry reforming process and boosting catalytic activity via active components, carriers, and promoters in both precious and non-precious metal catalysts. Furthermore, it discusses the current challenges of biogas dry reforming technology and outlines prospective future development trends. This discussion provides an in-depth understanding of biogas dry reforming technology and catalyst design, offering insights and recommendations for future research and industrial applications.

Exploring the role of the Internet of Things in green buildings

AbstractThe global energy crisis has been one of the significant challenges for decades, threatening the global economy, and the health of our environment. The government's efforts to enhance the welfare and lifestyle of citizens have been partially undermined by a significant rise in energy intensity, resulting in increased energy consumption. Over the years, researchers have utilized historical energy consumption data to enhance energy efficiency through various technologies. Innovative smart technologies drive energy efficiency, reducing energy usage throughout all areas of the energy industry, from production and supply to consumption. This creates a balance in all sectors and indicates a decrease in energy demand in all areas of building infrastructure. Green buildings that utilize Internet of Things (IoT) technology employ sensors and software to collect data, optimizing, and enhancing building performance. This includes reducing energy and electricity consumption, improving air quality, and optimizing lighting throughout the day. These buildings can contribute to reaching zero‐energy building targets. It becomes challenging to manage green buildings without using centralized control. Therefore, managing and integrating these buildings with intelligent technologies is vital in achieving environmentally friendly management. This study offers a broad overview of the green building concept and explores the use of the green IoT in enhancing services and conserving energy within green buildings. The article aims to deliver an extensive review of green buildings and their advantages, analyze the technology behind the IoT and its integration with solar panels to lower energy consumption, and ultimately identify the challenges present in this area of research.

Integration of Steam Recovered from Molten Salts in a Solar Integrated Combined Cycle

In the current context of the energy transition, Integrated Solar Combined Cycle (ISCC) power plants are an alternative that are able to reduce carbon emissions from combined cycle (CC) power plants. In addition, the coupling to an energy storage system based on molten salts benefits hybridization, allowing the energy surplus to be to stored to cover peaks in energy demand. Because it is a recent technology, the determination of the optimal injection points for the solar-generated steam into the combined cycle is a critical issue. In this work, a thermodynamic model of a hybrid natural gas and solar thermal CC power plant has been developed using Thermoflex to analyze the integration effects in terms of efficiency and power. For all the steam injection candidate positions, the effects of ‘power boosting’ and ‘fuel saving’ operation modes have been simulated, considering operation conditions that are compatible with the useful range of molten salts. The results show that injection of steam at the high-pressure line before the steam turbine increases the cycle’s gross efficiency with respect to the reference case, estimating a reduction of carbon emissions of 6696 kg/h in the ‘fuel saving’ mode and an increase in gross power of 14.4 MW in the ‘power boosting’ mode. Hence, adapting current combined cycles for hybridization with solar power is a viable solution in the transition period towards more sustainable energy sources.

Improved multi-objective differential evolution algorithm and its application in the capacity configuration of urban rail photovoltaic hybrid energy storage systems

With the rapid expansion of urban rail transit, energy demand is continuously increasing. Integrating photovoltaic (PV) systems into hybrid energy storage systems (HESS) to form a rail transit PV hybrid energy storage system (RTPHESS) is an effective energy-saving and emission reduction measure. However, the integration changes the energy composition of the rail power supply system, making traditional HESS capacity configuration schemes inadequate to meet the stability requirement. In light of this, an RTPHESS model was established aiming at suppressing traction network voltage fluctuations and minimizing the total life-cycle cost of HESS. The model introduces traction network voltage fluctuation rate and HESS total life-cycle cost as evaluation objectives. Based on this, an improved multi-objective differential evolution algorithm (IMODE) was proposed to optimize HESS capacity. Optimal point set theory was used for population initialization to enhance the uniformity and diversity of the initial population, thereby improving global optimization capabilities. During the mutation phase, a hybrid Gaussian-Cauchy mutation strategy was introduced to improve both global and local search capabilities. The proposed algorithm's effectiveness was evaluated using IGD, SP, MS, and ER metrics on eight benchmark test functions with different characteristics, and compared with SaMODE_LS, MODE, MOPSO, MOALO, and MOMGA. Finally, IMODE was applied to the capacity configuration of RTPHESS. The results demonstrate that IMODE outperforms traditional algorithms in terms of accuracy and stability, reducing traction network voltage fluctuations by approximately 4.1 % and lowering the total life-cycle cost to 3,201,100 yuan.

Assessment of energy, economic and environmental aspects of the methanol-fueled Allam cycle in cross-border renewable energy supply chain

This study addresses the challenge of uneven renewable energy distribution by proposing a renewable energy supply chain using MeOH-fueled Allam Cycle for power generation. With the escalating demand for renewable energy, regions with a surplus can produce MeOH using green H2 and recycled CO2, which can then be transported to energy-deficient regions. In these importing regions, MeOH is used for electricity generation via the Allam Cycle, with captured CO2 recycled for MeOH synthesis, creating a closed-loop carbon system. This study evaluates the energy, economic and environmental aspects of this supply chain. It projects that electricity costs in importing regions could decrease from USD 233.02/MWhimpt to USD 101.33/MWhimpt, and MeOH costs could drop from USD 585.39/t to USD 173.40/t, assuming a reduction in renewable electricity costs in exporting regions from USD 45/MWhexpt to USD 15/MWhexpt. Comparative analysis shows acceptable energy conversion and transportation costs, with an electricity conversion rate of 30.65 %-37.07 %. This design offers a promising, cost-effective solution for a sustainable future, with the onshore wind supply chain exhibiting lower emissions of 111.3–97.2 kg/MWhimpt.

An experimental investigation of various trickle collector structures to enhance solar water heater efficiency

This study aimed to enhance the efficiency of the solar water heater (SWH) due to the increasing demand of renewable energy. It compared use three different solar collector models, namely Model A (square-shaped polycarbonate), Model B (v-corrugated zinc), and Model C (trapezoidal aluminium) to identify the most cost-effective configuration. The models were subjected to experiments in real operating conditions during the summer season in Indonesia. Various parameters, including solar radiation intensity, wind speed, inlet and outlet temperatures, and flow rate, were measured every 10 min from morning to afternoon. Additionally, the study employed a trickle and one-way flow rate system. The results showed that Model B achieved the highest total efficiency at 50%, followed by Models A and C at 47% and 34%, respectively. The 120 Lph flow rate exhibited better performance in absorbing useful heat energy than the 240 Lph flow rate. Based on these findings, all three models were recommended for the household-scale SWH applications. Model A showed the most promising economic value but had a shorter lifespan due to the tendency of polycarbonate to deform. In contrast, Model B and Model C, using zinc and aluminium, offered longer lifespans.

Decentralized energy management regime for prosumer community Microgrids using flexible tube model predictive control

Achieving reliable, cost-effective, and low-carbon energy management for community microgrids (CMs) under suitable computational complexity is challenging due to uncertainties in renewable generation and load demand. To address this challenge, this paper proposes a flexible tube model predictive control-based energy management regime (EMR) for prosumer CMs, enabling robustness against system uncertainties in the energy management strategy with fewer sacrifices in economic performance and computational efficiency. The proposed EMR adopts a multistage receding horizon optimization structure, which allows the prosumers to dynamically adjust their energy scheduling according to the updated energy price and forecast information. Further, a decentralized algorithm with a conditional communication strategy is developed, highlighting less communication burden and private information preservation. Case studies on a typical prosumer CM demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method in confronting high system uncertainties. Notably, the proposed method ensures that CMs operate with high reliability (having a maximum energy supply shortage probability of just 0.42 %), in a low-carbon and economical manner (the local accommodation rate of renewable energy generation with low costs reaches 98.83 %), even in scenarios where disturbances occur simultaneously on both the energy supply and demand sides.

Synergistic evaluation of energy security and environmental sustainability in BRICS geo-political entities: An integrated index framework

Research background: The increasing demand for energy, driven by economic growth and population expansion, is a critical driver of societal progress. However, the predominant reliance on fossil fuels to meet this demand presents significant challenges, particularly in the rapidly developing BRICS nations (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa). These countries are faced with a complex interplay of energy security and environmental sustainability issues, stemming from their substantial fossil fuel reserves and the associated environmental consequences. The challenges manifest as inequalities in access to clean energy, environmental degradation, and heightened vulnerability to the impacts of climate change. Addressing these multifaceted issues requires a comprehensive approach. Metrics-based strategies, which employ aggregated indices derived from a diverse set of energy and environmental indicators, have the potential to provide valuable insights into these complexities. However, the development of a universally applicable energy sustainability index is complicated by the heterogeneity of metrics, disparities between countries, and methodological challenges, emphasizing the need for an innovative and holistic analytical framework. Purpose of the article: This study aims to develop a tailored Energy Security and Environmental Sustainability Index for BRICS economies to evaluate the robustness of their energy systems and the viability of their ecological practices. The index serves as an instrument to assess the progress of these nations in the Energy and Environment domain and identify areas that require targeted interventions and improvements. Methods: The construction of the composite ESESI involves the selection of relevant parameters and the application of a Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) framework in conjunction with the Weighted Product Method (WPM). To ensure objectivity in the determination of optimal and least favorable weights for each indicator, the study employs the Multiplicative Data Envelopment Analysis (MDEA) model. Findings & value added: The ESESI analysis reveals disparities in the progress made by BRICS nations in enhancing energy security, promoting renewable energy deployment, and mitigating environmental impacts. While some countries demonstrate substantial advancements, others face challenges in improving energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions. The study underscores the necessity for tailored policies and targeted infrastructural enhancements that align with the unique challenges and strengths of each nation. Harnessing the abundant renewable energy potential through advanced energy trade mechanisms and fostering cross-border investments are identified as crucial strategies for ensuring environmental sustainability and long-term energy in the BRICS region. The ESESI provides a valuable tool for policymakers and researchers to evaluate the progress of BRICS nations in achieving sustainable energy goals and to inform evidence-based decision-making processes. By offering a comprehensive and scientifically rigorous assessment framework, this study contributes to the ongoing discourse on sustainable energy transitions and environmental stewardship in the context of rapidly developing economies.

Performance Analysis of Lake Water Cooling Coupled with a Waste Heat Recovery System in the Data Center

Data centers (DCs) require continuous cooling throughout the year and produce a large amount of low-grade waste heat. Free cooling and waste heat recovery techniques are promising approaches to reduce DC energy consumption. Although previous studies have explored diverse waste heat utilization strategies, there is a significant gap in combining waste heat recovery with lake water cooling in DCs. Therefore, this study proposed a system integrating lake water cooling with waste heat recovery for DCs. To evaluate the energy-saving performance of the suggested system, the influence of waste heat recovery locations and volumes has been investigated. An analysis of the improvement in system parameters is also conducted. The study’s findings highlight that targeted recovery of waste heat from sources like chilled water or air in server rooms can significantly reduce the cooling energy demand of the system. The results show that recovering heat from the return air of IT equipment can yield a remarkable power usage effectiveness (PUE) and coefficient of performance (COP) of 1.19 and 10.17, and the energy consumption of the cooling system is reduced to 10.06%. Moreover, the outcomes reveal the potential for substantial energy savings of up to 26.05% within the proposed system by setting the chilled water and air supply temperatures to 16 and 20 °C, respectively.

Embracing circular economy concepts in hydropower generation: A review of sustainable practices and future prospect

The continuous growth in global energy demand and the escalating environmental issues make the search for sustainable and environmentally friendly energy solutions an urgent task in todays era. In the face of this challenge, hydropower, as a primary representative of renewable energy, shoulders the responsibility of meeting the ever-growing demand. This review will delve into the significance of introducing the concept of a circular economy in hydropower and the potential benefits it may bring

Assessing the Carbon Footprint of Viticultural Production in Central European Conditions

A number of factors will increasingly play a role in the sustainability of wine production in the coming period. The current situation suggests that the analysis of energy consumption and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions will play a particularly important role. The so-called carbon footprint, expressed in CO₂ equivalents, is used to express the sum of GHG emissions. This study presents an analysis of vine cultivation in a particular Central European region, with the main focus on quantifying the inputs, yield, fuel consumption, and GHG emissions. The emphasis was placed on conventional, integrated, and ecological production systems of growing, evaluated with the help of the developed AGROTEKIS version 5 software. A total of 30 wine-grower entities in the Morava wine-growing region, the subregion Velké Pavlovice, in the Czech Republic weather climate, were included in the input data survey. By analyzing the aggregated values, the real savings in energy and curbing of CO2 emissions of vineyards could be observed, relating to individual work procedures with lower energy demand used in the vineyard treatment as well as the amounts and doses of agrochemicals used. The average values of the total impacts did not show any statistically significant differences between the conventional (971 ± 78 kg CO2eq·ha−1·year−1) and integrated production systems (930 ± 62 kg CO2eq·ha−1·year−1), whereas the values for the ecological production system were significantly higher (1479 ± 40 kg CO2eq·ha−1·year−1). The results show that growing vines under ecological production conditions generates a higher proportion of the carbon footprint than under conventional production conditions. Overall, the best results can be achieved in an integrated production system.

A Pan-Asian Energy Transition? The New Rationale for Decarbonization Policies in the World’s Largest Energy Exporting Countries: A Case Study of Qatar and Other GCC Countries

Climate change has become a major agenda item in international relations and in national energy policy-making circles around the world. This review studies the surprising evolution of the energy policy, and more particularly the energy transition, currently happening in the Arabian Gulf region, which features some of the world’s largest exporters of oil and gas. Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and other neighboring energy exporters plan to export blue and green hydrogen across Asia as well as towards Europe in the years and decades to come. Although poorly known and understood abroad, this recent strategy does not threaten the current exports of oil and gas (still needed for a few decades) but prepares the evolution of their national energy industries toward the future decarbonized energy demand of their main customers in East and South Asia, and beyond. The world’s largest exporter of Liquefied Natural Gas, Qatar, has established industrial policies and projects to upscale CCUS, which can enable blue hydrogen production, as well as natural carbon sinks domestically via afforestation projects.

Organic solar cells: Exploring the future and sustainability of clean energy

As a critical technology in renewable energy, organic solar cells play an important role in energy transition and sustainable development. This paper examines the development and significance of organic solar cells in terms of energy demand, environmental requirements, and industrial growth. With the development of China's energy structure adjustment and carbon peak carbon neutral targets, interest in novel energy technologies is growing. The paper then describes the interaction between photons and materials and the electron-hole separation and charge transport mechanism of organic solar cells. In addition, the characteristics and potential applications of organic solar cells with various structures, such as bilayer heterojunction devices, intrinsic heterojunction devices, molecular DA junction devices, and stacked devices, are described in depth. In the outlook section, the paper emphasizes the future potential of organic solar cells, including efficiency enhancements, cost reductions, and integration with energy storage technologies. In conclusion, organic solar cells have tremendous potential in the field of renewable energy, and they are anticipated to lead the energy transition and contribute to sustainable development.