Energy Diversification Research Articles

Failure Mechanism and Stability Enhancement Strategies for Self‐Supported Electrodes

AbstractIn the face of global climate change and the need for energy diversification, electrocatalytic technology emerges as an eco‐friendly solution. However, persistent electrode failures hinder long‐term stability. This review comprehensively outlines the primary causes leading to the failure of self‐supported electrodes, encompassing substrate passivation, substrate/catalyst dissolution, CO poisoning, catalyst migration and agglomeration, as well as cathodic etching. Proposed strategies center on material design, emphasizing anchoring, lattice matching, substrate stability, and morphological control. Advanced characterization techniques and in situ technologies offer promising ways. The integrated deployment of these strategies will provide crucial guidance and support for the sustainable advancement of electrocatalytic technology.

ESG and the performance of energy and utility portfolios: evidence from Australia

PurposeThis study aims to establish the effect of environmental, social and governance (ESG) practices on Australian energy and utility investment performance.Design/methodology/approachConventional and ESG-rated portfolios are constructed using monthly returns and ESG scores of S&P/ASX 300 listed energy and utility firms from 2014 to 2022. Portfolio performance is estimated using a four-factor regression model, controlling for any economic shocks associated with the COVID-19 pandemic.FindingsThe findings show that the lower the ESG score associated with the overall ESG and environmental portfolios, the greater the performance compared to the market (but not the conventional and other ESG portfolios). High ESG scores do not appear to influence the performance of the energy and utility portfolios, which contrasts expectations that the uptake of ESG should deliver superior risk-return outcomes for investors. The findings also indicate that a contrarian investment approach may be a reasonable performance indicator for high-rated ESG portfolios. ESG practices did not impact portfolio performance during the COVID-19 pandemic.Originality/valueThis research has contributed to the literature by offering ESG investment insights for policymakers, regulators, fund managers and investors. Consistent with the agency perspective on ESG practices and efficient market hypothesis, the evidence implies that, regardless of ESG scores (either high or low), investors should consider investing passively in diversified energy and utility portfolios or low-cost index fund equivalents.

Power demand estimation techniques applied to microgrid

ABSTRACT The increasing global demand for power necessitates a focus on renewable energy sources to reduce environmental impact and diversify energy generation. Estimating power demand in real-time electrical systems is crucial in this context. However, the literature contains various estimation techniques without clear guidance on the most suitable option based on performance and field-specific use. To address this gap, a study compares these techniques and identifies the most effective method for power demand estimation through a training process that assesses the accuracy of predictions against actual values. This comparison is conducted using the JUPYTER platform and historical data from the ENTSO-E power systems database. Results indicate that Linear Regression and Support Vector Machine techniques are commonly used for model evaluation, but the Adaptive Neural Network consistently performs as the most robust estimation method. The choice of technique depends on researcher preference, but it's essential to note that inadequate data preparation can lead to suboptimal results. In summary, as the world's power demand rises, the study identifies the Adaptive Neural Network as a promising tool for accurate power demand estimation, emphasizing the significance of proper data preparation in this process.

Surface Engineered Single-atom Systems for Energy Conversion.

Single-atom catalysts (SACs) are demonstrated to show exceptional reactivity and selectivity in catalytic reactions by effectively utilizing metal species, making them a favorable choice among the different active materials for energy conversion. However, SACs are still in the early stages of energy conversion, and problems like agglomeration and low energy conversion efficiency are hampering their practical applications. Substantial research focus on support modifications, which are vital for SAC reactivity and stability due to the intimate relationship between metal atoms and support. In this review, a category of supports and a variety of surface engineering strategies employed in SA systems are summarized, including surface site engineering (heteroatom doping, vacancy introducing, surface groups grafting, and coordination tunning) and surface structure engineering (size/morphology control, cocatalyst deposition, facet engineering, and crystallinity control). Also, the merits of support surface engineering in single-atom systems are systematically introduced. Highlights are the comprehensive summary and discussions on the utilization of surface-engineered SACs in diversified energy conversion applications including photocatalysis, electrocatalysis, thermocatalysis, and energy conversion devices. At the end of this review, the potential and obstacles of using surface-engineered SACs in the field of energy conversion are discussed. This review aims to guide the rational design and manipulation of SACs for target-specific applications by capitalizing on the characteristic benefits of support surface engineering.

2022 Russian-Ukrainian War and the Future of EU Energy and Transport Security: Analyzing the Implications of Diversifification the Transport and Energy Transit Routes – the Case of the Black Sea/Caspian Region

Given recent events, such as the full invasion of Ukraine’s sovereign territories by the Russian armyin 2022, this article critically analyzes how the use of the Caucasus-Caspian region could serve Brusselsas an alternative means of diversifying energy sources to ensure its energy security. The study iscomprehensive and covers various forms of energy projects. Particular attention is paid to exploringthe various phases regarding Shah Deniz and potential expansion plans. In addition, it carefully examinesall other important factors associated with the production, transportation, and explorationof energy resources in the Caspian reserves.In addition, a key task is to classify and compare the EU’s geopolitical priorities before and after the2022 war, present an analysis of the complex paths of transformation of the EU’s energy supply,and clarify its new policies regarding the relations between the main regional players: the RussianFederation, the EU, Turkey, Azerbaijan, and Georgia.It has been established that the Black Sea-Caspian steppe contains valuable energy reserves. Dueto the critical geopolitical, geostrategic, and geoeconomic importance of the region, the EU has aninterest in the region. The study provides a comparative overview of different aspects of EU energydiversification policies. It examines how these policies have influenced the approach of foreignstates to the Caucasus-Caspian region, taking into account recent events. Moreover, it considersnational goals and takes into account the important interests of leading powers.Keywords: energy security, diversification of fossil fuels, Caucasus-Caspian region, Black Sea-Caspian steppe, EU policy on energy diversification, energy projects.

Addressing the Trilemma of Challenges: The Need for More SC Strategic Collaborations in the UK Oil and Gas Sector

This study conceptualises the extent of supply chain collaboration in the oil and gas (O&G) sector using the evidence from the literature and the primary data collected from supply chain practitioners across various companies in the UK O&G sector. The goal is to establish how the sector can address its traditional narrow and adversary relationships that undermine the sector’s ability to be resilient and competitive considering the volatility of global oil prices and the trilemma (i.e., energy transition, energy security, and energy diversification) of issues facing the sector. Using exploratory quantitative online surveys, data were collected from 82 supply chain practitioners across Tier 1, 2, and 3 companies in the UK O&G sector. The collected data were analysed thematically, providing deeper insights into supply chain collaboration, including its motivations and barriers in the UK O&G sector. The findings show that the pattern of collaboration in the O&G sector is transient, situational, and mostly influenced by the sector’s performance and global economic situations. The findings further show that the nature of the relationship in the O&G sector is mostly dependent on how it contributes to the performance of each business rather than the supply chain. This study argues that businesses in the oil and gas sector need to re-examine their relationships to enhance their competitiveness. It proposes that the sector should embrace strategic collaborations as the sector faces many disruptions, particularly from energy transition and the decommissioning of assets.

Liquid hydrogen superconducting transmission based super energy pipeline for Pacific Rim in the context of global energy sustainable development

The global energy issue is undergoing transformation owing to various factors, such as climate change and geopolitics. In the long term, the primary pathways to achieve sustainable energy development remain the clean energy and global cooperation. As the largest energy consumption centers, the Asia Pacific and North America possess complementary energy profiles and developmental needs for cooperation. This paper analyses various electricity or hydrogen transmission technologies suitable for the Pacific Rim energy system. The liquid hydrogen superconducting energy pipelines possess the potential to fulfill the demands of long-distance and large-scale energy transmission. Building upon this technology, a super energy pipeline project connecting East Asia and North America across 12 time zones was proposed. It is composed of pipelines and relay energy stations, which can realize large-scale storage and transportation of renewable energy as well as the diversified energy supply at terminals. The techno-economic evaluation of the project has been comprehensively conducted, and the investment can be recovered within 10 years. The project is expected to boost the progress of renewable energy, ensure regional energy security and promote the sustainable development of global energy.

Targeting zero energy increment for an onboard CO2 capture system: 4E analyses and multi-objective optimization

In this paper, a novel zero energy increment onboard carbon capture (ZEIOCC) system was proposed. With LNG cold energy and waste heat recovery, the ZEIOCC system integrated organic Rankine cycle (ORC), CO2 liquification, and CO2 capture unit. The ZEIOCC system performances were evaluated via energy, exergy, economic, and environmental (4E) analyses. Parametric studies were performed to investigate the effects of the flue gas mass flow rate (mfg), liquid to gas ratio (L/G), and the pinch point temperature difference at the outlet of the ORC condenser (Tpin) on the system performance indicators. Furthermore, multi-optimization was conducted with the product of energy-exergy efficiencies (ηen,sys*ηex,sys), the total capital investment cost (CI,tot), and the carbon reduction capacity (ξ) as objective functions. Two decision methods TOPSIS and LINMAP were introduced to find the most optimal point from the Pareto front. Under the basic condition, the proposed system proved its advantages of high efficiency, diversified energy output, fast return on investment, and efficient CO2 capture capacity. The results of optimization showed that the system performances meet all the requirement of the design goal. The optimal energy-exergy efficiencies is 10.06 %, the carbon reduction capacity is 28.01 %, and the total capital investment cost is 7.06 × 106 $. Under the optimal condition, the system net output power (Wnet), energy efficiency, and exergy efficiency are 12 kW, 20.53 %, and 49.02 %, respectively. Meanwhile, the payoff period (POP) and the CO2 capture cost (CCC) are 12.0 year and 99.9 $/tonCO2, respectively.

ENERGY INVESTMENT AND COOPERATION BETWEEN CHINA AND COUNTRIES ALONG “THE BELT AND ROAD”

Energy is the basis of the country’s economic development. China is a major supplier and consumer of energy, with a continuous increase in energy demand, which leads to deficiencies in its stable supply and serious problems such as import dependence, which seriously affects the country’s energy security. The countries of the “Belt and Road” have sufficient energy resources, which creates the potential for expanding energy cooperation with China. It is very important to build a community of shared energy circle with countries along the Belt and Road, build a diversified energy strategic system, and expand the chain of energy production and transformation to promote energy cooperation between China and countries along the Belt and Road. In today’s conditions of globalization and economic development, the management of energy development has become an important issue for the development of China’s national economy. Understanding the relevant research concepts and improving the theory of energy development management can help in making management decisions, increase the efficiency of commodity producers and strengthen the sustainability of Chinese territories. This article explores the theoretical foundations and practical applications of energy development management in detail, with the aim of providing useful guidance and reference materials for energy investment decision-makers by identifying key concepts, analyzing theoretical foundations and research methods. Thus, relevant concepts and main problems of energy investment management and theories of economic growth of rural areas by investing in the energy sector were presented. Various views of the classical theory of economic growth and development of rural areas were collected; the main obstacles to the development of energy investment are identified, including state macrocontrol at various stages of regional development.

PREREQUISITES AND KEY MEASURES FOR THE IMPLEMENTATION OF SUSTAINABLE ENERGY INNOVATIONS IN CHINA

The article is devoted to the study of prerequisites, directions and measures to ensure China's energy transition. The purpose of the article is to study China's experience in ensuring the energy transition and identify key directions and policy initiatives for the implementation and development of sustainable energy innovations. It has been established that China is the world's largest energy consumer and in recent years has been characterized by continuous economic growth and acceleration of industrialization, development of the energy industry. The energy structure was analyzed and the dominance of coal production and consumption was determined – the first place in the world. The activity of green energy development has been revealed, but the share of clean energy sources in total energy consumption is still low. It was determined that the implementation of the principle of sustainable development and energy innovation is a priority for the further development of the Chinese economy. The key directions for ensuring the energy transition have been identified: diversified energy supply; green and low-carbon development; technological transformation and development. The dynamics of China's energy imports from 2013 to 2022 are analyzed. It was established that China ranked 17th in the Energy Transition Index in 2023, and for the first time entered the TOP-20 countries according to this ranking, which indicates the growing potential of China's energy transition. It analyzed the reasons for reducing energy consumption by 10,000 yuan of GDP from 2013 to 2022. In particular, it is notable that individual companies have reduced energy consumption and environmental pollution, promoting energy conservation, emission reduction and circular economy. It found that, along with the problem of high industrial emissions, China has become a leader in the adoption of clean energy technologies with investments in clean energy technologies exceeding US$650 billion per year. Key political initiatives contributing to the reduction of carbon dioxide emissions and the introduction of energy innovations are analyzed.

Distribution of Oil Shale and Its Comprehensive Use

As a potential alternative energy source, oil shale has richer reserves than traditional fossil fuels. Its comprehensive utilisation has been extended to many fields, improving resource utilisation, and reducing costs and environmental pollution. By analysing the resource characteristics, development technology, utilisation mode, policy measures, and environmental impacts of oil shale, this paper summarises the current status of the development of China’s oil shale industry and the existing problems and puts forward development prospects and suggestions. The study found that oil shale development faces challenges such as complex geological conditions, immature technology, imperfect policies, and high environmental impacts. However, through technological innovation and policy support, resource utilisation can be effectively improved, costs reduced and environmental pollution reduced. This paper is expected to provide reasonable suggestions for the rational development and efficient use of oil shale resources in China. The strategic and effective exploitation of oil shale resources in China has the potential to decrease reliance on conventional oil and gas sources, bolster energy self-sufficiency and stability, and significantly contribute to the restructuring of the global energy landscape, contributing to the realisation of energy diversification and sustainable development.

Germany's Response towards Russia-Ukraine Conflict

The Russia-Ukraine war has had a profound impact on energy security in Europe, with Germany facing unique challenges and opportunities as one of the largest energy consumers in the region. This case study examines the implications of the conflict on energy security, focusing on Germany's response. It analyzes the reasons behind Germany's support for the project, such as diversification of energy sources, economic interests, and political influence. It also delves into the concerns raised by the European Union and the United States regarding the project's impact on energy diversification, geopolitical dynamics, and the interests of Eastern European countries. The findings contribute to the understanding of energy security dynamics and offer valuable insights for policymakers, energy experts, and stakeholders involved in shaping resilient and sustainable energy systems amidst geopolitical uncertainties.

A Comprehensive Analysis of Oil Extraction Technologies for Optimized Biodiesel Production

There is a critical need for energy diversification due to over depended on fossil fuel and its daunting challenges. These impediments linked with fossil fuels have stirred the search for another energy sources and biodiesel is one of the potential alternatives. Biodiesel is renewable, non-toxic, environmental-friendly and an economically viable choice to solve the diminishing fossil fuels and its harmful environmental effect. It can be made from seeds oil plant, vegetable oils, animal fats, waste oils and algae. Here are various means for the production of the biodiesel oil which comprises; mechanical, chemical/solvent and enzymatic oil extraction methods etc. Report from the open literatures revealed that, all the extraction methods have its own advantages and disadvantages but in all, oil expeller machine which is based on mechanical means of extracting oil from the common wastage seeds oil plant prove to be efficient especially for large scale extraction. Thus, for efficient oil extraction from wastage seeds oil plant, oil expeller machine is appropriate. This research seeks to discuss an improve ways of maximum oil yield with an expeller machine from the wastage seeds oil plant commonly available in our environment.

Electricity Fluctuations and Tax Revenue in Sub-Saharan Africa: Insights from a Bias-Corrected Linear Dynamic Panel Model

Inadequate electricity and its frequent fluctuations adversely affect the productivity and profits of small and medium enterprises in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). These fluctuations also affect economic growth, narrowing further the region's low tax base. However, studies examining the effects of electricity on the tax base in SSA at the macro level are limited. This study bridges this gap by examining electricity fluctuations' effects on SSA countries' tax revenue. A bias-corrected linear dynamic estimator using a panel dataset for forty-one (41) SSA countries from 2000-2022 is employed for analysis. The study noted that electricity consumption is positively related to the tax base while electricity fluctuation creates critical fiscal losses regarding what the tax base would become in ordinary situations. The results indicate that the African governments in SSA need to increase investments in electricity infrastructures and diversify energy sources. Furthermore, SSA governments must renovate and strengthen the existing electricity infrastructures while upgrading the Internet of Things (IoTs) at the same time. Inclusively, mitigating power outages that are hindering the growth of the tax revenue base in SSA countries is important for achieving sustainable economic growth.

Perceptions of Innovation Characteristics Converter Kit Machine and Its Influence on Fishermen's Income in Palembang City

The Oil to Gas Fuel Conversion Program is an energy diversification policy carried out by the government to reduce fishing communities' dependence on oil fuel, by assisting in the form of converter kit engines. The converter kit engine innovation is believed to be more efficient and effective than the ordinary boat propulsion engines previously used by fishermen. This research aims to identify the socio-economic characteristics of fishermen, analyze fishermen's perceptions of the characteristics of converter kit engine innovation, and analyze the relationship between perceptions and fishermen's income. The method in this research is a survey method. The research subjects consisted of 51 fishermen who received converter kit engines. Data was collected using a questionnaire designed using a Likert scale. The research results showed that the achievement value of fishermen's perception of the characteristics of converter kit engine innovation was 92.03% (very high). The correlation test results between the variables of fishermen's perceptions of the characteristics of converter kit engine innovation and fishermen's income have a fragile and insignificant relationship with a negative correlation coefficient or in the opposite direction of -0.185.Keywords: gas; innovation; conversion; converter kit; perception.

Stirling engines: Advancements, applications, and environmental benefits

The increasing adoption of Stirling engines in contemporary industries is driven by their potential to address critical issues of energy efficiency and emissions reduction. Stirling engines offer higher energy efficiency, lower noise and emissions, and versatility in utilizing various heat sources, making them a promising solution for enhancing environmental preservation and energy diversity. This paper examines the growing adoption of Stirling engines in diverse industries, driven by the urgent need to address energy efficiency and emissions challenges. The paper outlines the core principles and advantages of Stirling engines, highlighting their potential to enhance energy efficiency, preserve the environment, and diversify energy sources. Furthermore, the paper underscores significant industrial and aviation applications of Stirling engines, particularly in vehicle propulsion, heat pumps, and electricity generation. Notably, the automotive Stirling engine excels in fuel efficiency and emissions reduction, offering a viable alternative to traditional internal combustion engines. Stirling engines also prove effective in heat pump systems, contributing to efficient building heating and cooling. In conclusion, despite challenges such as material requirements and heat loss, Stirling engines hold great promise as sustainable and eco-friendly thermal engines. As global concerns regarding energy and the environment intensify, Stirling engines offer a compelling pathway to improved energy efficiency, reduced emissions, and a more diversified energy landscape, driving innovation across sectors.

Analysis of Environmental and Energy Policies in Turkey, the European Union and the United States

Energy consumption plays a pivotal role in the development of societies. Sustainable Energy Resources are vital inputs for daily life, and energy and industrial products are essential for economic growth (Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources, 2022). Consequently, those responsible for managing a country's energy sector must ensure the uninterrupted, reliable, timely, clean, and affordable supply of energy, as well as diversify energy sources to enhance energy security.
 The concept of "sustainable development" has emerged in response to the need to prevent irreversible environmental damage caused by conventional energy sources and outdated technologies while ensuring access to energy as a fundamental human right under optimal conditions (Pamir, N 2005). Developed societies have transitioned from planning based solely on energy source acquisition and production to a planning approach that carefully considers the energy-economy-ecology balance (3E) while taking into account resource diversity and geopolitical realities (Energy Policies and Global Developments, emo.org.tr).
 Turkey remains heavily dependent on energy imports, accounting for approximately 74% of its energy needs (Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources, 2023). The multifaceted nature of Turkey's energy strategy and its energy dependence emphasize the importance of international relations in this field.
 U.S. energy policies have global ramifications, particularly in areas such as energy resource utilization, energy trade, and energy independence (Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources, 2022). U.S. energy policies play a significant role in international relations, impacting relationships with other countries, especially in matters related to energy exports and imports.
 In Europe, there is uneven progress towards clean electricity, with both successes and challenges in transitioning to a low-carbon energy system. While the European energy sector has taken significant steps towards decarbonization, there has been limited progress in some countries, and much more progress is needed. Achieving a fully decarbonized energy system in Europe requires united efforts and coordination to address the challenges posed by fossil fuel dependence and climate change.

Research on optimal operation strategy of regional multi-heterogeneous energy charging station considering Bi-direction satisfaction and traffic network coupling

Low battery capacity and long charging time constrain the development of electric vehicles (EV), while hydrogen fuel vehicles (HV) have complementary advantages of electric-hydrogen coupling and fast charging, and the synergistic development of the two has become a feasible development route. In this paper, the concept of energy charging station (ECS) has been proposed to meet the demand of diversified energy supply. Then, to solve the separation between the satisfaction of customer and operator, a bi-directional satisfaction model has been proposed to solve the dilemma of economic optimal caused by the conflict of satisfaction, and have been applied to the optimization of the lower layer of single ECS. Moreover, the influence of on the cooperative optimization of bi-directional satisfaction and ECS on the urban transportation networks (UTN) characteristics has been considered, an improved UE-TAP algorithm has been proposed and applied to the upper optimization architecture of multi-heterogeneous ECS, which can help the UTN and multiple ECS reach a user equilibrium (UE). Finally, the case studies on 5-node and 20-node system have been conducted to verify the correctness and feasibility of the proposed framework and strategy. The results shows that our method can enhances coordinated UTN and ECS, reducing the traffic congestion and improving the satisfaction of both users and operators.

Transient Performance of Gas-Engine-Based Power System on Ships: An Overview of Modeling, Optimization, and Applications

Liquefied natural gas (LNG) is widely regarded as the midterm solution toward zero-carbon transportation at sea. However, further applications of gas engines are challenging due to their weak dynamic load performance. Therefore, the comprehension of and improvements in the dynamic performance of gas-engine-based power systems are necessary and urgent. A detailed review of research on mechanisms, modeling, and optimization is indispensable to summarize current studies and solutions. Developments in engine air-path systems and power system load control have been summarized and compared. Mechanism studies and modeling methods for engine dynamic performance were investigated and concluded considering the trade-off between precision and simulation cost. Beyond existing studies, this review provides insights into the challenges and potential pathways for future applications in decarbonization and energy diversification. For further utilization of clean fuels, like ammonia and hydrogen, the need for advanced air–fuel ratio control becomes apparent. These measures should be grounded in a deep understanding of current gas engines and the combustion characteristics of new fuels. Additionally, the inherent low inertia feature of electric power systems, and consequently the weak dynamic performance when adopting renewable energies, must be considered and studied to ensure system reliability and safety during transient conditions.

Multidimensional risk spillover among power, coal, and carbon markets: empirical evidence from China.

Amidst the "double carbon" target, China is vigorously promoting the transformation of the electricity and coal markets and carbon markets widely regarded as an effective policy tool for managing carbon emissions. Leveraging sample data from January 3, 2017, to December 16, 2022, this study investigates the risk spillover effects among China's power, coal, and carbon markets via rolling window technology and the DY spillover index. The empirical results indicate a significant long-term two-way asymmetric spillover effect among these markets. Specifically, the Guangdong carbon market acts as both an exporter and receiver of risky fluctuations across the two sample periods. The coal market primarily exhibits a net risk spillover effect on the Guangdong and Hubei carbon markets. Furthermore, the aggregate spillover index reveals that the volatility spillover effects of the power, coal, and carbon markets are significantly amplified by extreme risk events. The rise and volatility of coal prices under the influence of these extreme risk events may lead to government intervention in the power sector, which in turn has an impact on the coal market. These findings underscore the time-varying nature of risk spillovers among markets and have important implications for risk management and the construction of diversified energy markets.