Renewable Energy Research Articles

Qatar's energy policy in the field of renewable energy

Qatar has abundant oil and gas reserves and has made extensive investments in renewable energy according to the zero-carbon policy in recent years. Renewable energy is vital for Qatar, and many investments and plans have been made in this country. Therefore, this article examines Qatar's energy policy in renewable energy using a mixed quantitative-qualitative methodology. In this article, an attempt has been made to answer the question, what is Qatar's energy policy in the field of renewable energy? As a hypothesis, Qatar's energy policy has changed from dependence on non-renewable energies to using and developing renewable energies to stabilize its energy security in the coming decades. Also, the theoretical framework of energy security has been used to test the hypothesis. The research findings indicate that Qatar has also adopted this policy due to the significant changes in the orientation of developed and developing countries towards new energies. Like many Persian Gulf countries, Qatar's policies have been aimed at reducing carbon. With extensive investments and long-term planning until 2030, Qatar can become a model country in the Middle East region in terms of renewable energy. This issue and fossil fuels give Qatar a special place that can turn Qatar into a fossil and renewable energy hub.

Towards sustainable energy: a comprehensive review on hydrogen integration in renewable energy systems

As the world shifts towards sustainable energy sources, incorporating hydrogen into renewable energy systems emerges as a critical pathway. This thorough analysis delves deeply into the various facets of hydrogen integration, exploring its potential to revolutionize the energy landscape. Drawing upon recent advancements and research findings, the review examines the production, storage, and utilization of hydrogen within renewable energy frameworks. Key topics include electrolysis methods, storage technologies, and diverse applications spanning transportation, residential sectors, and industry. Furthermore, the review examines the obstacles and prospects linked with hydrogen integration, shedding light on policy frameworks, economic implications, and technological innovations driving its adoption. By offering insights into the multifaceted role of hydrogen, this review aims to inform researchers, stakeholders, and policymakers about the transformative potential of integrating green hydrogen into renewable energy systems for a sustainable future.

Unlocking the potential of green hydrogen for a sustainable energy future: a review of production methods and challenges

The buzz around green hydrogen is growing louder as a game-changer in the fight for a clean and sustainable energy future. This article dives into the coolest ways to create this eco-friendly fuel, exploring methods like splitting water with electricity, turning plant matter into gas, and even some cutting-edge techniques in the pipeline. This research dives deep into the latest breakthroughs in electrocatalyst and electrode materials, the secret ingredients that could supercharge hydrogen production, making it cleaner and cheaper. While good old water electrolysis using alkaline and PEM electrolyzers is the current champ, it's still a bit pricey and not as efficient as we'd like. Thankfully, innovative ways to design these "fuel-splitting champions" and integrate them with renewable energy sources are showing promise as solutions. But green hydrogen isn't just some cool science experiment; it's a potential game-changer for cleaning up our transportation, factories, and even the way we power our homes, all to fight climate change. The study also identifies areas where we need more research and ironing out of kinks before widespread use. It emphasizes the importance of keeping the innovation train rolling, smart investments in this technology, and government policies that give it a green light. By pushing green hydrogen forward, we can slash greenhouse gasses, become more energy-independent, and finally build that sustainable energy future we've all been dreaming of!

Deep-learning-based multi-timescale load forecasting in buildings: opportunities and challenges from research to deployment

Electricity load forecasting for buildings and campuses is becoming increasingly important as the penetration of distributed energy resources (DERs) grows. Efficient operation and dispatch of DERs require reasonably accurate predictions of future energy consumption in order to conduct near-real-time optimized dispatch of on-site generation and storage assets. Electric utilities have traditionally performed load forecasting for load pockets spanning large geographic areas, and therefore, forecasting has not been a common practice by buildings and campus operators. Given the growing trends of research and prototyping in the grid-interactive efficient buildings domain, characteristics beyond simple algorithm forecast accuracy are important in determining the algorithm’s true utility for smart buildings. Other characteristics include the overall design of the deployed architecture and the operational efficiency of the forecasting system. In this work, we present a deep-learning-based load forecasting system that predicts the building load at 1-hour intervals for 18 hours in the future. We also discuss challenges associated with the real-time deployment of such systems as well as the research opportunities presented by a fully functional forecasting system that has been developed within the National Renewable Energy Laboratory’s Intelligent Campus program.

Disaggregating air, water and renewable energy disclosures in developing economies: the role of regulatory impact and board characteristics

PurposeThis study examines how board characteristics influence air, water and renewable energy (AWR) disclosures in an emerging economy. It argues for the necessity of separating these disclosures to address unique environmental impacts and stakeholder concerns.Design/methodology/approachUsing longitudinal data from environmentally sensitive firms (2014–2022), a disclosure index based on the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) framework was developed to quantify AWR separately. To address potential statistical issues such as endogeneity and selection bias, the analysis employed a set of robust regression models, including the industry fixed effects (FE) model, a lagged model and a two-stage least squares (2SLS) model.FindingsBoard size and audit committees positively influence all AWR disclosures, while foreign directors significantly impact air and renewable energy disclosures. Board meetings negatively affect water disclosures. Surprisingly, board independence shows no significant impact, and gender diversity has no notable relationship. Post-amendment, firms increased AWR disclosures, though participation remains limited.Research limitations/implicationsGrounded in legitimacy theory, this study contributes to the literature by demonstrating how separating the unique characteristics of AWR disclosures offers stakeholders more precise insights into how firms manage specific environmental concerns. The findings are based on data from listed firms in Bangladesh and may not be generalisable to unlisted firms or other regions.Practical implicationsThe study emphasises the importance of distinct AWR reporting, offering valuable insights for regulators and corporate boards to improve transparency and sustainability practices.Social implicationsSeparating AWR disclosures provides stakeholders with clearer assessments of firms' environmental performance, promoting accountability and informed decision-making.Originality/valueThis study uniquely emphasises the need for disaggregating air, water and renewable energy disclosures in emerging economies. By focussing on each environmental issue separately, the research highlights how distinct disclosures offer clearer insights into how firms address specific environmental challenges, such as air pollution, water management and the transition to renewable energy sources. This disaggregation is essential for stakeholders – particularly regulators, investors and policymakers – to assess and respond to firms' sustainability efforts accurately.

Waste-to-energy: exploring the roadmap for energy generation from commercial waste in South Africa

Purpose This study aims to investigate the adoption of waste-to-energy (WtE) technologies in South Africa (SA), focusing on identifying the key drivers, barriers and potential solutions for commercial uptake. The ultimate aim is to propose an implementation framework that promotes renewable energy while reducing landfill reliance. Design/methodology/approach A systematic literature review (SLR) of papers published between 2020 and 2023 was conducted to identify factors impacting WtE adoption in SA. The conceptual model developed from the SLR was tested using a qualitative case study approach. Data was collected through 15 semi-structured interviews with commercial entities and WtE experts from four regions of SA. Findings Anaerobic digestion and pyrolysis are identified as the most suitable waste-to-energy technologies in the South African context. Among the financial challenges of WtE in SA, the availability of cheap coal, low landfill tariffs, high capital costs, funding constraints and regressive economic incentives are critical. The lack of government support, insufficient incentives, regulatory burdens, weak policies and limited innovation capacity are considerable non-financial barriers hindering WtE technologies’ growth. The successful adoption of renewable energy also requires adequate infrastructure, increased sustainability awareness and technical expertise. Research limitations/implications Although the sample size is diverse and consists of a range of organisations, it may not capture the thoughts and experiences of other SA businesses in their entirety. It is important to note that the lack of existing research on the implementation, benefits and impacts of WtE technologies limits the authors’ ability to interpret and benchmark the findings of this study. Yet, this study contributes by developing an implementation framework to encourage WtE adoption, recommending policy actions such as regressive taxation on fossil fuels and landfills and promoting renewable energy through subsidies, awareness and energy credits. Practical implications This study provides a practical framework for businesses and policymakers to adopt WtE technologies by addressing key barriers. The research suggests that businesses could reduce waste management costs and generate new revenue streams by adopting anaerobic digestion and pyrolysis. Policymakers are encouraged to disincentivize landfills and promote WtE through financial incentives such as subsidies and energy credits. The implementation framework offers clear recommendations for integrating WtE into SA’s energy and waste management strategies, supporting both sustainability and economic goals. Social implications The main social contribution is the potential for WtE adoption to improve waste management practices and generate new job opportunities within the renewable energy and waste sectors. Originality/value This study provides a novel contribution by developing an implementation framework tailored to SA’s unique regulatory, economic and social contexts. The research highlights the importance of aligning WtE adoption with sustainability goals, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and promoting renewable energy. The framework serves as a practical guide for policymakers, businesses and industry leaders seeking to implement sustainable waste management solutions in SA.

Soft-system management framework for power supply and grid integration issues

Purpose The balance between power supply and demand gets more challenging when electrical networks switch from centralized thermal power plants to distributed renewable energy sources for power generation. Such problems present a diverse set of challenges that require a solution through system and control methods. Hence, the purpose of this study is to understand the issues faced by each actor in the power sector’s supply chain, which would restrict the stability of the power supply and quality of service. Design/methodology/approach This study provides a conceptual model, soft system methodology (SSM), for power supply management or grid integration issues through the mapping of identified issues with their possible solutions. Findings This study offers an analysis that uses methods of problem structuring to construct the major issues and measure technological advancements in the energy sector. This research highlights the need to integrate energy storage systems with the grid for the effective operation of the system to manage various power supply issues. Research limitations/implications SSM is used to establish a mechanism to manage grid integration problems by comparing established problems with their potential solutions. The resulting framework would help managers, researchers, policymakers, engineers and smart grid professionals to make the required and informed decisions on the management of grid integration issues and to form strategies fostering efficient and secure energy network. Originality/value The research is based on a conceptual framework for enhancing energy efficiency and integrated smart grid technology, which would contribute to a better supply of electricity and a more environmentally sustainable future.

Bridging the implementation gap for climate mitigation in ASEAN: a comprehensive capacity-building framework

PurposeThe paper systematically examines the capacity building needs of energy and climate stakeholders in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). It looks at conditions and opportunities for improvements in institutional, organisational, technological, innovation and financing capacities. This paper provides a guide to concrete capacity building programs and implementations to accelerate the implementation of National Determined Contributions (NDCs) and low-carbon energy transition in the ASEAN region.Design/methodology/approachThis paper proposes a comprehensive capacity-building framework, drawing on transition management theory and the interactive systems framework for capacity building. The assessment is based on interviews with representatives of the ministry responsible for energy policy and the ministry responsible for climate policy in each ASEAN country, as well as a survey among a broader set of Southeast Asian energy and climate experts from academia, think tanks and international development partners.FindingsThe paper identifies the priority areas for capacity building for each ASEAN country and the region as a whole. Each country has a unique set of needs and priorities. At the regional level, the widest capacity gaps were observed in institutional capacity, technical capacity, human resources capacity, financing capacity and the capacity to develop policy and legislation. Specific gaps for capacity building are discussed in delivering strategic areas of energy transition, such as electrification of transportation, development of the green supply chain, deploying renewable energy, energy efficiency, strengthening finance and investment and reducing dependencies on fossil fuels.Originality/valueThis paper helps fill the gap for detailed capacity needs analysis and facilitates long-term plans/strategies and their implementation. The insights help to increase ASEAN energy and climate stakeholders’ understanding of the interaction between energy and climate, therefore enhanced capability in developing more effective action maps and intervention points in achieving NDCs and sustainable development goals.

Addressing Uncertainty in Renewable Energy Integration for Western Australia’s Mining Sector: A Robust Optimization Approach

The mining industry is a key contributor to Western Australia’s economy, with over 130 mining operations that produce critical minerals such as iron ore, gold, and lithium. Ensuring a reliable and continuous energy supply is vital for these operations. This paper addresses the challenges and opportunities of integrating renewable energy sources into isolated power systems, particularly under uncertainties associated with renewable energy generation and demand. A robust optimization approach is developed to model a multi-source hybrid energy system that considers risk-averse, risk-neutral, and risk-seeking strategies. These strategies address power demand and renewable energy supply uncertainties, ensuring system reliability under various risk scenarios. The optimization framework, formulated as a mixed integer linear programming problem and implemented in Python using the Gurobi Optimizer, integrates renewable energy sources such as wind turbines, photovoltaic arrays, and demand response programs alongside traditional diesel generators, boilers, combined heat and power units, and water desalination. The model ensures reliable access to electricity, heat, and water while minimizing operational costs and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. A comprehensive sensitivity analysis further examines the impact of uncertainty margins and the value of a lost load on the total system cost, providing insights into how different risk strategies affect system performance and cost-efficiency. The results are validated through three case studies demonstrating the effectiveness of the proposed approach in enhancing the resilience and sustainability of isolated power systems in the mining sector. Significant improvements in reliability, scalability, and economic performance are observed, with the sensitivity analysis highlighting the critical trade-offs between cost and reliability under varying uncertainty conditions.

Feasibility Assessment of Hybrid Renewable Energy Based EV Charging Station in Libya

This study presents an assessment of the feasibility of implementing a hybrid renewable energy-based electric vehicle (EV) charging station at a residential building in Tripoli, Libya. Utilizing the advanced capabilities of HOMER Grid software, the research evaluates multiple scenarios involving combinations of solar and wind energy sources integrated with energy storage and the utility grid. This analysis provides a novel approach to enhancing urban energy systems with renewable technologies in a region traditionally reliant on fossil fuels. Key contributions of this study include the demonstration of an innovative integration strategy that combines solar and wind power with battery storage to ensure a reliable and efficient energy supply for EV charging. Furthermore, the study addresses the practical implications for local energy policy, suggesting that such hybrid systems can significantly enhance energy security and support sustainable urban development. The authors studied five scenarios using HOMER. The results reveals that the annual total costs and payback periods are as follows: for Scenario 1 (wind/utility grid), the expenditure totals US$1,554,416 and payback period of 4.8/5.8 years; for Scenario 2 (solar/wind/Utility grid), the amount is US$1,554,506 and payback period of 4.8/5.8 years; and for Scenario 3(solar/wind/storage/utility grid), it escalates slightly to US$1,554,731, all predicated on the utility grid tariffs and payback period of 4.8/5.8 years. Furthermore, in Scenario 4 (solar/utility grid), the annual total cost is significantly reduced to US$30,589 and a payback period of 8.1/14.3 years, while Scenario 5 (solar/storage/utility grid) incurs an even lower expenditure of US$28,572, again based on the utility grid tariffs and a payback period of 14.0 years. The findings contribute valuable insights into the scalability and adaptability of renewable energy solutions, providing a robust framework for policymakers and planners considering similar implementations in other regions. Overall, the research underscores the potential of integrated renewable energy systems to transform urban energy infrastructures, promoting a sustainable and resilient energy future. The HOMER Grid analysis shows that configurations with energy storage are more cost-effective in the long run, even though they require higher initial costs. It also offers important insights into the economic viability and optimization of hybrid renewable energy systems for an EV charging station in Tripoli, Libya. These results highlight the significance of making calculated investments in renewable energy infrastructure and supporting policies for the development of sustainable energy.

Innovative Strategies for Thermal Energy Optimization and Renewable Energy Integration in Net-Zero-Energy Buildings: A Comprehensive Review

The thermal performance and energy efficiency of buildings are critical factors in achieving sustainable energy systems as energy needs for heating and cooling are expected to represent more than 50% of global final energy consumption. This study analyzes conventional renewable energy systems for heating and cooling in buildings, focusing on strategies for developing net-zero-energy buildings. This review covers the integration of renewable energy, the use of intelligent energy management systems, and the optimization of thermal processes. It also compares various systems based on their advantages and limitations and analyzes emerging trends in the thermal management of buildings in different climate zones. The synthesis of recent literature highlights practical recommendations for achieving high thermal performance in buildings, including the importance of selecting appropriate energy systems based on local climatic conditions, optimizing system efficiency, and taking advantage of new materials and advanced technologies. This review aims to contribute to promoting sustainable construction practices with the integration of renewable energy sources and improving the energy efficiency of buildings.

High-precision prediction of microalgae biofuel production efficiency: employing ELG ensemble method

Microalgae biofuels are considered a significant source of future renewable energy due to their efficient photosynthesis and rapid growth rates. However, practical applications face numerous challenges such as variations in environmental conditions, high cultivation costs, and energy losses during production. In this study, we propose an ensemble model called ELG, integrating Empirical Mode Decomposition (EMD), Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM), and Gradient Boosting Machine (GBM), to enhance prediction accuracy. The model is tested on two primary datasets: the EIA (U.S. Energy Information Administration) dataset and the NREL (National Renewable Energy Laboratory) dataset, both of which provide extensive data on biofuel production and environmental conditions. Experimental results demonstrate the superior performance of the ELG model, achieving an RMSE of 0.089 and MAPE of 2.02% on the EIA dataset, and an RMSE of 0.1 and MAPE of 2.21% on the NREL dataset. These metrics indicate that the ELG model outperforms existing models in predicting the efficiency of microalgae biofuel production. The integration of EMD for preprocessing, LSTM for capturing temporal dependencies, and GBM for optimizing prediction outputs significantly improves the model’s predictive accuracy and robustness. This research, through high-precision prediction of microalgae biofuel production efficiency, optimizes resource allocation and enhances economic feasibility. It advances technological capabilities and scientific understanding in the field of microalgae biofuels and provides a robust framework for other renewable energy applications.

Wind turbine energy forecasting using real wind farm’s measurement data and performance of gene expression programming analytical model in comparison to traditional algorithms

ABSTRACT Forecasting wind power is vital to ensure steady, sustainable, and renewable energy. The complex nonlinear nature of wind flow and its interrelated factors make power prediction challenging. This study predicted wind power curves inspired by the Biologically Inspired Evolutionary Computation (BIEC) paradigm, incorporating Gene Expression Programming (GEP), Artificial Neural Networks (ANN), Least Square Support Vector Machines (LSSVM), and Random Forest (RF) models. Key input parameters include wind speed, yaw azimuth, turbulent intensity, veer, horizontal and vertical shear, ambient temperature, blade pitch, and rotor speed. The study evaluates these models’ effectiveness using root mean square error (RMSE) and correlation coefficient R. Results indicate that the GEP model offers transparent modeling, emphasizing critical inputs like wind speed, rotor speed, blade pitch angle, and temperature for wind power prediction. The GEP model identified wind speed, rotor speed, blade pitch angle, and temperature as the most influential parameters, with variable importance index (Ii) values of 69.39%, 24.39%, 5.46%, and 0.64% for training, and 69.37%, 25.03%, 4.98%, and 0.54% for validation. The study demonstrates the GEP model’s efficacy in accurately forecasting wind power curve, achieving a high correlation with training and validation coefficients of 0.9899 and 0.994, respectively, outperforming traditional models with minor errors.

Communicating About Renewable Energy With Satire: The Influence of Gentle and Harsh Humor Tones on Perceived Message Credibility and Information Reliance

Satire is often used in science communication, but it is unclear how it influences perceptions of message credibility and reliance on the information. We examine how two satire types (gentle, harsh) influence perceived message credibility and information reliance, which we define as using the information in discussions or for attitudinal and behavioral changes. Using a partial mediation model, we found no effects of gentle satire, but harsh satire negatively influenced message credibility, which was positively linked to information reliance. Contrary to previous research, we found that the satire type matters. Practical implications include being cautious when using harsh satire.

UJI EKSPERIMEN PENGARUH JUMLAH SUDU DAN DEBIT TERHADAP DAYA DAN EFISIENSI TURBIN AIR TIPE VORTEX

<p class="StyleAuthorBold"><em>The electrification ratio in Indonesia is currently still 87%. This means that there are still 8.5 million residents or the equivalent of 2500 villages that have not received electricity. Indonesia has a lot of potential for renewable energy such as water energy. 7 GW capacity from renewable energy, 66% of which comes from hydropower. The manufacture of pico-hydro scale power plants can be a cheap alternative. Pico-hydro can be applied to irrigation canals so that it can produce small-scale electrical energy. One type of water turbine that can be utilized is a vortex type water turbine. The study used experimental methods. The independent variables are variations in the number of blades 2, 4, and 6 and the distance between the blades and the outlet is 1 cm. The dependent variable of the research is the power and efficiency produced by the vortex water turbine. The data analysis technique in this study used quantitative descriptive analysis techniques. The basin used is a conical basin type with the upper diameter is 40 cm, the lower/oulet diameter is 6.5 cm, and the height is 32 cm. The water discharge in this test has 7 variations, that is 1,12 l/s, 1,26 l/s, 1,54 l/s, 1,68 l/s, 1,82 l/s, 1,96 l/s, and 2,11 l/s. This test produced the highest electrical output power of 9.66 Watts, at a total of 2 blades, the discharge is 1,86 l/s. At the number of blades 6 at a discharge of 1.96 l / d is the highest efficiency value of 6.3%.</em></p>

Smart Integration of Renewable Energy Sources Employing Setpoint Frequency Control—An Analysis on the Grid Cost of Balancing

The increasing installation of Renewable Energy Sources (RES) presents significant challenges to the stability and reliability of power systems. This paper introduces an advanced control method to mitigate the adverse effects of intermittent generation from RES on the power system frequency stability. The proposed approach emphasizes the critical role of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) and RES in enhancing the resilience of modern power networks. The Generation Export Management Schemes (GEMS) are employed to curtail the excessive export of RES, thereby contributing to improved frequency stability. This research involves a comprehensive analysis of the dynamic behavior of the network under various operational scenarios, particularly focusing on power exchanges between RES, BESS, and synchronous generation units. Furthermore, this paper focuses on the economic implications of integrating RES into the grid, with a detailed cost of balancing (COB) modelling and analysis conducted to assess the financial viability of the proposed frequency management solutions. The analysis encompasses both short-term and long-term perspectives, providing insights into the development of economically sustainable smart power networks that effectively integrate renewable energy and storage technologies while maintaining system stability.

Quantifying Uncertainty Costs in Renewable Energy Systems Considering Probability Function Behavior and CVaR at Low-Probability Generation Extremes using Deterministic Equations

The increase and integration of renewable energy sources in electrical power systems implies an increase in uncertainty variables, both in costs and production, of economic dispatch (ED) and currently have a significant influence on wholesale electricity markets (MEM). Uncertainty costs refer to the quantification of additional expenses or economic losses associated with the variability inherent in the generation of renewable energy, such as wind, solar, or hydroelectric. Therefore, this article presents deterministic equations related to cost overestimation and underestimation, as well as CVaR, to model and evaluate the stochasticity of risks associated with the integration of renewable sources, allowing system operators and planners to make informed decisions. To mitigate or use said risks in energy systems with high penetration of elements, mainly smart networks. In this study, a mathematical analysis is carried out using the histogram spectrum formed by the power generated by the probability density function (PDF) for solar generation, although it is possible to consider other types of functions to determine energy generation. The objective of the proposed model is to provide another tool to the system operator for energy management and planning, which relieves a little of the weight of the computational load and at the same time presents more precision in the results by being able to work with a database. Historical data if these values are available. Commonly, for this type of analysis, values are estimated using probabilistic calculations by density functions when integrating these functions, or in other recent cases by estimating them by analytical methods of the same functions. A validation of the model is presented by comparing the result with the Monte Carlo simulation, developing the total cost of uncertainty only from "low probability generation extremes". Furthermore, the results are presented through analytical uncertainty cost functions (AUCF). This analysis includes the calculation of uncertainty costs for low and high-probability energy generation, determined by the Conditional Value at Risk (CVaR), using deterministic equations.

Disentangling Legal Stability from Legitimate Expectations: Towards Greater Deference to Regulatory Changes in Renewable Energy Transition Policies in Investment Arbitration

Abstract The obligation of stability generally requires host States to maintain a relatively stable regulatory framework to mitigate political risks facing foreign investments. It has played a significant role in international investment tribunals’ review of host States’ renewable energy transition policies. This paper critically reviews tribunals’ interpretation of the obligation with a particular focus on the Spanish cases involving renewable energy incentive schemes. It canvasses the two ‘dimensions’ adopted by investment tribunals in the interpretation of stability, namely the protection of legitimate expectations and States’ right to regulate for public purposes. Examining the contents of the two dimensions separately, this paper argues that legal stability should be disentangled from the notion of legitimate expectations and be assessed through the reasonableness of regulatory changes per se. It further argues that an intrusive interpretation of legal stability lacks legal and institutional bases; instead, more deferential standards should be adopted in the review of renewable energy transition policies.

The Importance of Implementing Sustainable Practices in Municipalities of the Araguaia River Valley, Mato Grosso, Brazil

Objective: The present work aims to identify and analyze strategies for implementing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in municipalities in Vale do Araguaia in the state of Mato Grosso - Brazil, as well as their benefits and challenges, providing recommendations for promoting sustainable development at the local level. Theoretical Framework: The text addresses essential strategies for implementing sustainable practices in local communities, such as solid waste management, conservation of water resources, use of renewable energy and promotion of sustainable agriculture. Highlights include recycling and composting to reduce waste, water reuse systems and renewable energy, such as solar, for energy self-sufficiency. Sustainable agriculture strengthens the local economy, while conscious consumption is encouraged by educational campaigns. Community participation and government support are crucial for balancing economic development, social justice and environmental preservation. Method: This comparative case study analyzed the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in 25 municipalities in Mato Grosso, in the Araguaia river basin. Different municipal strategies and contexts were examined, using data from public sources such as the Water and Sanitation Institute and the Sustainable Cities Development Index – Brazil (IDSC-BR). The analysis was organized in a table and the average of the results made it possible to evaluate the level of sustainable development of each city. Results and Discussion: The research points out that, although the implementation of sustainable practices in municipalities is essential to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the results are still below expectations. Only three municipalities achieved average rates, and none achieved satisfactory results. This reveals structural challenges, such as a lack of adequate public policies and budget limitations. The research highlights the need for greater coordination between government spheres, the private sector and civil society, in addition to more concrete and inclusive planning to promote sustainable development. Research Implications: The practical implications of this study suggest the need for greater integration between government spheres and the private sector to optimize the implementation of the SDGs in municipalities, highlighting the importance of effective public policies and investments in priority areas. Theoretically, the study offers insights into the structural challenges faced by cities, contributing to the debate on sustainable urban management and the development of policy models that can accelerate the achievement of global sustainability goals. Originality/Value: The originality of the study lies in its detailed analysis of the implementation of the SDGs in municipalities, revealing the specific structural challenges that limit their progress. The value lies in providing a practical overview of the gaps in public policies and local management, in addition to highlighting the need for greater intersectoral coordination to achieve sustainable development, offering valuable guidelines for future urban planning and sustainability policies.

Dielectric Elastomer Generators: Recent Advances in Materials, Electronic Circuits, and Prototype Developments

The ongoing climate crisis requires innovative methods to maximize renewable and sustainable energy resources. There have been advancements in harvesting energy from ambient motions such as wind, ocean waves, and human movements. Dielectric elastomer generators (DEGs) are a promising option for energy harvesting due to their high energy density and compatibility with low‐frequency oscillations. This review provides an in‐depth overview of DEGs, including electroactive materials, electromechanical characterization, electronics for harvesting, interfacing circuits, prototypes, and challenges. DEGs have the potential to play a significant role in decarbonizing energy for both small‐ and large‐scale applications using ambient energy sources.