Future Global Energy Research Articles

The short-term comprehensive impact of the phase-out of global coal combustion on air pollution and climate change.

With the continuous intensification of global warming, the reduction and ultimate phase-out of coal combustion is an inevitable trend in the future global energy transformation. This study comprehensively analyzed the impact of phasing out coal combustion on global emissions and concentrations of air pollutants, radiative fluxes, meteorology and climate using Community Earth System Model 2 (CESM2). The results indicate that after the global phase-out of coal combustion, there is a marked decrease in the concentrations of sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx) and fine particulate matter (PM2.5), with some regions experiencing a reduction of exceeding 50%. There is no significant change in global ozone (O3) concentration. There are decreasing AOD and positive radiative fluxes globally in the short term, though the cloud contributes minor negative radiative fluxes. The global air temperature may increase by approximately (0.02±0.15) °C on average with regional and seasonal variations, and the precipitation may potentially increase by approximately (2.7±40.6) mm yr-1 globally and over 20% in equatorial regions in the short term. But combined with the decreasing trend of cloud water content in the Northern Hemisphere, it indicates a potential increase in the extremity of precipitation events. This study provides references for global control of air pollution, mitigation strategies of climate change, and transformation of energy structures under the objective of "carbon neutrality", such as focusing on the negative climate impacts of exacerbating regional warming and increasing extreme precipitation resulting from the rapid reduction of aerosols in the short term.

Sensitivity of Future Regional and Global Energy Markets and Macroeconomic Activity to a Hypothetical International Energy Market Disruption

Sensitivity of Future Regional and Global Energy Markets and Macroeconomic Activity to a Hypothetical International Energy Market Disruption

Results of an expedition survey on population of rare, aboriginal, local and endangered Brown Carpathian cows

From the expedition survey of the cow’s population, it appears that 7 breeds and genotypes of cattle are bred in Transcarpathia, part of the Ukrainian Carpathians. The materials presented in the work and their analysis show that during the years 1911-2023 there were changes in the breed composition and numbers. The state of distribution, the number of breeding stock of one of them - a rare, aboriginal, local and disappearing brown Carpathian breed is currently insufficiently studied. From a scientific point of view it represents a valuable object of preserving the biological diversity of cattle and establishing the history of the development of cattle breeding. From a practical point of view - with low-cost production technologies, it provides high-quality milk and meat to the local population, the stability of ecosystems and the biosphere as a whole. It provides also the sustainable development of the regional communities and international cooperation. In the current and future global warming and energy crisis, this breed is suitable for operation under the conditions of application of new "Green Architecture" technologies recommended by the European Commission, which fundamentally change traditional approaches in dairy farming. The results of our research will help clarify the status of the brown Carpathian breed, the number of cows and the breeding area as well as draw attention to the problems of implementation of the provided protection and conservation measures, their financing mechanisms.

The development and impact of tin selenide on thermoelectrics.

Thermoelectric technology experienced rapid development over the past 20 years, with the most promising applications being in both power generation and active cooling. Among existing thermoelectrics, tin selenide (SnSe) has had particularly rapid development owing to the unexpectedly high thermoelectric efficiency that has been continuously established over the past decade. Several transport mechanisms and strategies used to interpret and improve the thermoelectric performance of SnSe have been important for understanding and developing other material systems with SnSe-like characteristics. Similar to other thermoelectrics, building commercially viable SnSe-based devices requires advances in device efficiency and service stability. Further optimization across all material systems should enable thermoelectric technology to play a critical role in the future global energy landscape.

Advanced photovoltaic technology can reduce land requirements and climate impact on energy generation

Future changes in solar radiation and rising temperatures will likely reduce global solar photovoltaic potential, but advancing photovoltaic technologies could counteract these effects. We investigate the potential of photovoltaic to satisfy energy demands given climate change and technological development. We find that conventional photovoltaic will require 0.5 to 1.2% of global land area to meet projected energy demands by 2085 without accounting for climate change effects. When considering climate impacts, this requirement increases to 0.7–1.5% of the global land area. However, utilising advanced photovoltaic technologies can reduce this area to 0.3–1.2%, effectively mitigating climate impacts. Regional climate change impacts vary substantially, resulting in photovoltaic potential decreases of up to 3% in Latin America and the Caribbean, and by up to 8% in South Asia. Our results suggest that technology-driven increases in future global photovoltaic energy production can more than compensate for the climate related reductions.

A Critical Review on the Advancements in Exploration and Production of Shale Gas

The exploration and production of shale gas have seen significant advancements in recent years, driven by the increasing global demand for clean energy sources. These advancements encompass the understanding of a wide range of areas, including the formation theory of shale gas reservoirs, evaluation methods, well drilling, completion, and simulation techniques. Innovative design, modelling, and field practices have been developed for shale gas well drilling and completion, as well as its production techniques. Furthermore, new simulation techniques, software, algorithms, and other tools have been introduced to improve the modelling and simulation of shale gas production. Experimental and simulation research in shale gas exploration, development, and production using hydraulic fracturing has also seen considerable progress. These advancements are contributing significantly to the global demand for clean energy sources with a promise to achieve sustainable development goals. This review work explores the exploration and exploitation of shale gas with a detailed description of multidisciplinary research efforts, providing valuable insights into shale reservoir/rock characterization and geo-mechanics, fluid-surface interactions, gas adsorption behaviours and single- and multi-phase flow mechanics. These advancements are not only increasing the efficiency and productivity of shale gas extraction but also paving the way to meet the future global energy demand while also contributing to the goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions. The novelty of the review work is that it exhibits a combined qualitative and quantitative study of recent advancements in the sphere of exploration and production of shale gas reserves and its discoveries around the globe.

Increases of Offshore Wind Potential in a Warming World

AbstractOffshore wind farms, a rapidly expanding sector within wind energy, are playing a significant role in achieving global carbon neutrality, and this trend is to continue. Here, we utilize ERA5 reanalysis to correct offshore wind speed trends predicted by CMIP6 models. This approach led to enhanced projections for changes in offshore Wind Power Density (WPD) under four Shared Socioeconomic Pathways (SSPs) scenarios. Throughout the 21st century, global offshore WPD is projected to follow an upward trend across all SSP scenarios. Notably, Europe stands out with the most substantial increase in offshore WPD among regions with higher current installations, projected to reach up to 26% under 4°C global warming. Our study uncovers a notable increase of global offshore WPD in a warmer climate, which offers valuable insights for the strategic planning of future global wind energy.

A comprehensive review of current progress in biofuel production using marine algae biomass

The world's fossil fuel resources are rapidly depleting as the global population grows and energy demands rise. Current fossil fuel supplies are insufficient to meet rising demand and are nearing depletion. Careless exploitation of fossil fuels increases greenhouse gas emissions, environmental pollution, and global warming, resulting in ecological imbalances and health risks. Consequently, contamination, rising temperatures, and high oil costs have fueled the search for renewable and alternative energy sources. This study seeks to explore renewable energy alternatives that are critical to meeting future global energy demands. Marine algae such as red algae, green algae, and brown algae are gaining popularity as economically viable and environmentally friendly sources of renewable biofuel. Several studies are currently underway to assess the ability of marine algae to produce a variety of bioproducts, including biofuels. Macroalgae, in particular, emerges as an ideal resource for biofuel production due to their lipid and carbohydrate content, coupled with low or absent lignin content. The article investigates the potential of marine algal species to promote biofuel production and discusses novel methods for improving biofuel yields. It also emphasizes the economic factors and challenges associated with sustainable biofuel production.

Global Review on Environmental Impacts of Onshore Wind Energy in the Field of Tension between Human Societies and Natural Systems

Deploying onshore wind energy as a cornerstone of future global energy systems challenges societies and decision-makers worldwide. Expanding wind energy should contribute to a more sustainable electricity generation without harnessing humans and their environment. Opponents often highlight the negative environmental impacts of wind energy to impede its expansion. This study reviews 152 studies to synthesize, summarize, and discuss critically the current knowledge, research gaps, and mitigation strategies on the environmental impacts of onshore wind energy. The investigated effects comprise impacts on the abiotic and biotic environment, with birds and bats in particular, noise and visual impacts. Effects are discussed in the context of social acceptance, other energy technologies, and wind energy expansion in forests. This review illustrates that many effects are highly case-specific and must be more generalizable. Studies are biased regarding the research focus and areas, needing more standardized research methods and long-term measurements. Most studies focus on the direct mortality of birds and bats at wind farms and are concentrated in Europe and North America. Knowledge gaps persist for many impact categories, and the efficacy of mitigation strategies has yet to be proven. More targeted, unbiased research is required that allows for an objective evaluation of the environmental impacts of wind energy and strategies to mitigate them. Impacts, such as those on biodiversity, need to be addressed in the context of other anthropogenic influences and the benefits of wind energy. This forms the basis for a socially acceptable, efficient, and sustainable expansion of wind energy.

The Macroeconomic Role of New Energy Sources in the Transition of Global Energy Structure

This paper looks into the changing world scene of energy with respect to shifts from traditional to new energy sources. When the trends are examined against the backdrop of rapid industrialization, technological breakthroughs, and globalization, it is noticeable that traditional energy sources have major environmental impacts, including greenhouse gas pollution and various health risks. The study demonstrates that new and renewable energy options such as solar, wind, hydro, and geothermal power could play a leading role in reducing climate change effects and improving air and water quality. The discussion on the macroeconomic influences of these new energy sources, particularly on power generation and the automotive sector, can be seen as having transformative potential in supporting sustainable development objectives. Although the article acknowledges the growth in this sector, it also pinpoints impediments that hinder the new energy technologies, including technological youthfulness, limited infrastructure, and intermittent supply of energy. The strategy recommended as a whole consists of enhanced investment in research and development; a joined approach of politics; edification programs; and public promotion with an aim to solve these difficulties and to hasten the process of global transition into a sustainable energy sphere. The study indicates that while environmental concerns should be balanced against economic development and societal benefits when shaping future global energy systems.

Innovative Thermocatalytic H2 Sensor with Double-Sided Pd Nanocluster Films on an Ultrathin Mica Substrate.

Hydrogen (H2) is crucial in the future global energy landscape due to its eco-friendly properties, but its flammability requires precise monitoring. This study introduces an innovative thermocatalytic H2 sensor utilizing ultrathin mica sheets as substrates, coated on both sides with Pd nanocluster (NC) films. The ultrathin mica substrate ensures robustness and flexibility, enabling the sensor to withstand high temperatures and mechanical deformation. Additionally, it simplifies the fabrication process by eliminating the need for complex microelectro-mechanical systems (MEMS) technology. Constructed through cluster beam deposition, the sensor exhibits exceptional characteristics, including a wide concentration range (from 500 ppm to 4%), rapid response and recovery times (3.1 and 2.4 s for 1% H2), good selectivity, high stability, and repeatability. The operating temperature can be as low as 40 °C, achieving remarkably low power consumption. The study explores the impact of double-sided versus single-sided catalytic layers, revealing significantly higher sensitivity and response with the double-sided configuration due to the increased catalytic surface area. Additionally, the research investigates the relationship between the deposition amount of Pd NCs and the sensor's sensitivity, identifying an optimal value that maximizes performance without excessive use of Pd. The sensor's innovative design and excellent performance position it as a promising candidate for meeting the demands of a hydrogen-based energy economy.

Development and application of low-melting-point microencapsulated phase change materials for enhanced thermal stability in cementing natural gas hydrate layers

In the exploration of deep-water oil and gas resources, encountering natural gas hydrate (NGH) layers poses significant challenges, particularly during cementing operations critical for wellbore stabilization. This study proposes a strategy employing cement slurries integrated with micro-encapsulated phase change materials (MPCMs) to address the destabilization of NGH layers, a key obstacle in deep-water cementing. MPCMs containing BaCO3 shell and low-melting binary PCMs in the core were synthesized by the self-assembly method. The structure and thermal properties of MPCMs were thoroughly characterized. MPCMs exhibited a distinct core-shell structure with a hydrophilic and well-sealed shell. Their phase change temperatures were in closely matched the temperatures found in NGH formations, at 3.5 °C and 13.9 °C. A comprehensive evaluation of the fundamental properties of cement slurries containing MPCMs (CSM) was conducted, including thermal stability, setting time, pore structure, and mechanical strength. Additionally, a laboratory device was employed to simulate cementing operations, allowing for intuitive analysis of the impact of hydration heat evolution on NGH stability—a notably underexplored aspect in related literature. The results demonstrated that MPCMs effectively reduced the hydration heat generated by cement slurry within the initial 36 h. Specifically, at a 9% MPCMs dosage, the hydration heat of CSM decreased by 19.0%, resulting in the sustained stability of NGH. In contrast, the control group's cementing process directly led to the complete decomposition of NGH. Even at lower MPCMs concentrations, the decomposed NGH was more likely to recrystallize and return to a stable state due to the slower hydration heat release rate of CSM. This study not only provides evidence of the effectiveness of MPCMs as heat inhibitors in reducing the disruption of hydrate stability during well cementing but also provides theoretical guidance for the design and application of cement slurries for NGH reservoirs. By enhancing the stability of NGH layers, this work supports the safe and efficient exploitation of undersea hydrocarbon resources, contributing to shaping future global energy strategies.

Research on the Intelligent System Architecture and Control Strategy of Mining Robot Crowds

Despite the pressure of carbon emissions and clean energy, coal remains the economic backbone of many developing countries due to its abundant resources and widespread distribution. The stable supply of coal is also vital for the global economy and remains irreplaceable in the future global energy structure. China has been a major contributor to annual coal output, accounting for nearly 50% worldwide since 2014. However, despite implementing intelligent coal mining technology, China’s coal mining industry still employs over 1.5 million underground miners, posing significant safety risks associated with underground mining operations. Therefore, the introduction of coal mining robots in underground mines is an urgently needed scientific and technological solution for upgrading China’s and even the world’s coal energy industry. The working face needs a shearer, hydraulic support, a scraper conveyor, and other equipment for coordination. The deep integration of intelligent technology with factors such as “humans, machines, the environment, and management” in the workplace is the core content of intelligent coal mines. This paper puts forward an advanced framework for robot technology systems in coal mining, including single robots, robotized equipment, robot crowds, and unmanned systems. The framework clarifies the common key technologies of coal mining robot research and development and the cross-integration with new technologies such as 5G, the industrial internet, big data, artificial intelligence, and digital twins to improve the autonomous and intelligent application of coal mining robots. By establishing a scientific and complete standard system for coal mining robots, we aim to achieve the customized research and development and standardized production of various types of robot. A specific analysis is conducted on the research progress of common key technologies such as the explosion-proof design, mechanical system innovation, power drive, intelligent sensing, positioning and navigation, and underground communication of coal mining robots. The current research and application status of various types of coal mining robots in China are summarized. A new direction for future coal mining robot research and development is proposed. Robotic mining systems should be promoted to enhance the overall intelligence level and efficiency of mining equipment. To develop human–machine environment-integrated robots to improve the autonomy and collaboration level of coal mining robots, the digital twinning of the entire mine robot system should be accelerated; the normalized operation level of coal mine robots should be improved; research on coal mining robots, shield support robots, and transportation robots should be performed; intelligence should be achieved in fully mechanized mining faces; and equipment shield support for fully mechanized mining faces should be provided. The practical process of implementing coal mining robotization is summarized in this paper, and the technical and engineering feasibility of the coal mining machine population is verified.

Investigating the impact of the future carbon market on the profitability of carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) projects; the case of oil fields in southern Iraq

Carbon capture utilization and storage for enhanced oil recovery (CCUS-EOR) is considered a promising solution to meet future global energy needs while significantly reducing carbon dioxide emissions. However, the future growth of CCUS-EOR is uncertain due to the global economic recession and low oil prices. This research analyzes the impact of uncertain oil and carbon market prices on the economic value of a CCUS-EOR project which contributes to appropriate investment and future policy decisions. To explore the potential trade-offs between available carbon dioxide (CO2) quantities for trading or injection for enhanced oil recovery, the market's trading mechanism is analyzed by predicting future oil and carbon prices. The forecasted market prices are then used in an optimization model to estimate the optimal cumulative cash flow from implementing a proposed CCUS-EOR project to capture CO2 from the Hartha power plant located in the southern Basra Province of Iraq, considering three different oil fields of Rumaila, Nassriya, and Noor. The results revealed that the profitability of the proposed CCUS-EOR project is affected by both oil and carbon market prices, and a higher carbon price is needed to compensate for the financial setbacks, resulting from reduced oil prices. The research also features the strategic decision-making of oil fields across different sizes in response to various price scenarios. The medium-sized fields consistently prioritize carbon injection for enhanced oil recovery (EOR) over market trading. In contrast, small and giant fields adapt their approach based on the prevailing market price dynamics.

Artificial Intelligence-Controlled Photovoltaic Generator for Optimized Power Point Tracking

This paper addresses the pressing need for sustainable energy solutions by focusing on developing a photovoltaic solar tracker enhanced with artificial intelligence (AI). The current and future global trends challenge energy systems to improve their output while also maintaining an eco-friendly approach, and there is an option to offset carbon emissions through photovoltaic energy. Nevertheless, the solar panel’s efficiency depends upon its ability to follow the sun’s movement to find the optimum energy angle. This project offers a unique solution, adopting a neural network technique that was trained using weather data from the daily weather forecasts to determine the correct angles of the panel at all times. The sampling unit was fabricated using aluminium and PLA materials and monitoring parameters of temperature, humidity, radiation, pressure, and atmospheric variables. A web-based interface lets monitor the system in oh-so-real-time and delivers graphical presentations of crucial metrics, including voltage, current, and power production. The outcomes suggest a significant enhancement in energy output, which ascends from 22.65% to 29.25%, equivalent to a 144.56 kWh-year rise. Although the margins of profitability may differ by region, our study sheds light on the efficiency of this AI-integrated solar tracker, especially in regions like Brazil or Spain, which facilitates alternative energy policies with possible economic benefits.

Assessing the progress toward achieving energy‐ and climate‐related sustainable development goals under four global energy transition outlooks

AbstractClimate change is one of the greatest challenges in achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), underscoring the critical need for energy transitions to mitigate the climate crisis. The achievement of two energy‐ and climate‐focused SDGs—SDG 7 (affordable and clean energy) and SDG 13 (climate action)—remains uncertain under potential future global energy transition outlooks. This study evaluates the progress toward achieving SDGs 7 and 13 by 2050 under four representative energy transition outlooks through 14 performance indicators derived from a global system dynamics model. Our results reveal a progressive trend in achieving SDGs 7 and 13 under these energy transition outlooks. The overall progress scores toward these two SDGs are estimated as 16.23% in 2030 and 20.06% in 2050 under the most conservative outlook and 65.35% in 2030 and 88.24% in 2050 under the most radical outlook. Although energy transitions contribute to achieving SDGs 7 and 13, our analysis indicates that the world is far off‐track in achieving these SDGs by relying solely on the implementation of energy transition policies. We further suggest promising measures from both the energy sector and other vital sectors to facilitate progress toward achieving the two SDGs.

State-of-the-Art and Progress in Metal-Hydrogen Systems

Hydrogen is heralded as a future global energy carrier [...]

Pore Space as a Resource: A Discussion of the Policy and Regulatory Framework for Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage

Reinforced by the International Energy Agency (IEA), carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) is currently the only available group of technologies that reduce emissions in key hard to abate sectors and capture CO2 emissions that enable low carbon value chains such as hydrogen. Further, CCUS and carbon management play a critical role in achieving future global climate and energy goals. In fact, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change and the IEA state that there is no viable path to net zero emissions without CCUS and other carbon management technologies. Due to concerns regarding energy security and an increase in energy demand, generation of energy from conventional hydrocarbon resources continues to be vital. In Alberta, CCUS is a necessary tool to align provincial climate change goals with the responsible and competitive market of energy production. Canada’s oil and gas sector has been an early innovator and adopter of CCUS. Given the petroleum and natural gas resources available in the Western Canadian Sedimentary Basin, and the decades-long energy industry expertise established in connection therewith, there is significant potential to further utilize CCUS to create a CCUS-based value chain. This article provides an overview of the current Canadian regulatory frameworks enabling CCUS, with a focus on the regulatory framework and development in Alberta. Specific topics include: (1) an overview of the regulatory frameworks governing CCUS in key jurisdictions in Canada, including Alberta; (2) an overview of the frameworks for the generation of offset credits from environmental attributes associated with a given project or activity, including both federal and provincial carbon credits and clean fuel credits; (3) a discussion of gaps in policy and legislation; (4) options for regulating “open access” CCUS hubs and CO2 pipelines; and (5) an overview of the various governmental incentives for CCUS projects, including federal and provincial tax credits.

Study of Transport Phenomena in Next Generation Lithium Batteries, Assisted by 3D Printing

Lithium-ion batteries (LIB) have a major role in the global energy future as they currently offer the best alternative for energy storage. The increase in energy demand is driving the development and optimization of high-performance batteries. With the specific objective of improving energy densities, studying the limiting phenomena such as the transport of species through the batteries’ components is essential. In this regard, using a new emerging technology such as 3D printing to process some of the batteries’ components could answer some issues. Thanks to its design flexibility compared to conventional manufacturing methods, this technique offers the possibility of creating customizable and complex architectures that could help unravel limiting phenomenon.More specifically, 3D printing is an interesting way to design solid electrolytes. This study aims at showing how the structure, the composition and the configuration of the solid electrolyte will affect the systems properties and thus its electrochemical performances. A first part of the study consists in evaluating the feasibility of 3D printing a solid composite electrolyte with a complex architecture. Thus, 3D printing techniques will be discussed as well as the formulation of a ceramic ink. Other aspects will be addressed such as the ink printability studies via rheology, the processing of different structures via printing and the print fidelity. Using different compositions and architectures, different structural characterizations and conductivity tests are performed to evaluate the impact of the processing on the system properties. The optimization of this proof of concept involving various polymer/ceramic ratios, geometrical architectures and processing studies is an interdisciplinary project that can lead to significant advances in the field of batteries.

Energy transition in China: Assessing progress in sustainable development and resilience directions

China is often referred to as a global benchmark for the energy transition. Regarding energy sustainability, China's strategies and policies might be viewed as either highly innovative or detrimental. Considering the Chinese economy, population, consumption, and pollution rates, the country's energy transition decisions are deemed major determinants for the present and future global energy sustainability, resilience and related conditions. This paper aims to provide a measure and definition of these phenomena to characterize selected aspects, highlighting China's global and regional status. To this end, an interval-based composite indicator assessment is reviewed, indicating that China holds a mid-tier status in terms of energy sustainability relative to global standards. Therefore, energy security standards serve as the foundation for China's transition path to ensuring a clean, renewable and sustainable energy supply and resilience in the future conditional to universal and democratic energy justice achievement.