Imported Fossil Fuels Research Articles

Electrification of Transportation: Policy Framework, Technical Aspects and Challenges in Pakistan - A Case Study

Pakistan faces severe air pollution and high dependency on imported fossil fuels for transportation, urgently needing solutions. Electrification of transportation could address these issues, but Pakistan lacks a clear roadmap for adopting electric vehicles. This paper examines the electrification of transportation in Pakistan, focusing on policies, technical aspects, and standards. It looks at best practices from developed countries and discusses incentives offered by the Pakistani government to boost electric vehicle adoption. The study also explores challenges and opportunities in adopting electric vehicles within existing power systems. A SWOT analysis is included, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats related to electric vehicle policies and market integration in Pakistan. By reviewing these factors, the paper provides insights into the obstacles and potential benefits of electric vehicle adoption. It also suggests ways for developing nations like Pakistan to encourage widespread use of electric vehicles, aiming to reduce fossil fuel dependency and meet environmental goals.

Energy security and its determinants in New Zealand

New Zealand relies on imported fossil fuels for about 38% of its primary energy. The country’s energy demand is expected to grow due to population and economic growth, which will put more pressure on the energy system. Besides, resource scarcity, energy price volatility, and environmental challenges have made energy security a major concern for New Zealand and other countries. Given the lack of significant research on the effects of energy security factors in New Zealand, this study aims to shed light on the primary determinants of energy security using the dynamic autoregressive distributed lag method based on time series data from 1978 to 2021. The study found that a long-run link exists between energy security and energy intensity (energy efficiency), renewable energy use, fossil fuel consumption, and global oil prices. Real GDP, renewable energy consumption, and energy security were found to improve energy security, while fossil fuel consumption and world oil prices had a negative impact. The study also revealed a one-way causality from real GDP, fossil fuel consumption, and renewable energy use to energy security. In contrast, the relationship between energy intensity and energy security is bidirectional. Simulation results showed that global crude oil prices have a lower impact on energy security compared to other variables and are most responsive to a 5% shock in fossil fuel consumption, followed by economic growth.

Towards a sustainable energy future: Modeling Morocco’s transition to renewable power with enhanced OSeMOSYS model

Developing countries encounter numerous challenges, such as limited access to reliable electricity and a heavy reliance on imported fossil fuels. To satisfy the rising energy demand, which is essential for economic growth, these regions are shifting towards sustainable energy solutions. Solar and wind power have emerged as key and secure energy sources. This research develops an enhanced OSeMOSYS energy system model to examine long-term energy supply strategies, using Morocco as a case study. The proposed model addresses the specific needs of decision-makers in developing countries, enabling the achievement of renewable energy targets and optimal temporal resolution. A baseline and three alternative scenarios were developed, exploring both a restructuring plan to address existing gaps and a forward-looking policy targeting nearly 100 % renewable energy. These scenarios are assessed in terms of installed capacity, generation mix, investment costs, variable and fixed costs, storage capacity utilization, and carbon emissions. The results indicate that a 92 % integration rate for renewables is feasible at an additional cost of $32 billion, thanks to new energy efficiency measures reducing demand by 15 % between 2030 and 2050 compared to baseline forecasts. Furthermore, an ambitious energy strategy by 2050 could achieve the lowest emissions rate of 0.29 Mt, paving the way for complete decarbonization. Technologically, investment in pumped-storage hydroelectric plants is the most viable backup option for a country dependent on natural gas imports. Our findings emphasize that a diversified energy mix and robust energy efficiency plans are essential for a rapid and feasible transition of the country’s energy system. This paper offers an enhanced energy model to help decision-makers in developing countries set targets on the share of renewables in total installed capacity, thereby increasing their integration rate at minimal additional cost.

SWOT Analysis of the Benefits of Hydropower Energy in Four Archipelagos

Increasing energy production through renewable sources is a challenge for islands. This paper investigates the potential of hydropower as a renewable energy source for islands in the Macaronesia region, which includes the Azores, Madeira, Canary Islands, and Cape Verde. Ecological transition towards renewable energy sources is crucial for these islands due to their current dependence on imported fossil fuels and their remoteness. The methodology used in this paper combines a SWOT analysis with a review of relevant literature. The SWOT analysis evaluates the Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats associated with hydropower development on each island. The results show that each island has unique characteristics that influence its hydropower potential. The Azores has existing mini-hydropower plants and opportunities for pumped storage systems due to its rainfall and volcanic features. Madeira also utilizes hydropower, including the world's first underground pumped storage plant (UPHS) in Socorridos. However, limitations exist due to the mountainous terrain and competition for water resources. The Canary Islands showcase the success story of El Hierro Island, which significantly increased renewable energy penetration through a wind farm and pumped storage hydropower system. The topography and lack of rainfall on Cape Verde make the development of hydropower a significant challenge and, as a result, the focus has shifted to wind power. The study concludes that hydropower can play a significant role in the ecological transition of these islands. However, careful planning and consideration of environmental factors are necessary to maximize the benefits and minimize the potential drawbacks. The paper emphasizes the importance of island-specific assessments and exploring opportunities for pumped storage systems. Doi: 10.28991/CEJ-2024-010-07-019 Full Text: PDF

Perspectives on challenges to bioenergy use in the EU

AbstractDespite bioenergy playing an important role in producing a significant amount of renewable energy in the EU, there are several differing views of its future role, as illustrated in the European Parliament and society more generally. The aim of this paper is to investigate the barriers to advancing bioenergy use and prospects for the future of bioenergy in the EU. Whereas previous studies have focused on specific aspects of EU bioenergy, such as market structure, technological considerations, and individual forms of bioenergy, this study provides results from a survey analyzing several factors that are inhibiting overall bioenergy development throughout the EU. The results show that, in general, the growth of bioenergy use in the EU can be expected to continue, although there are many issues that need to be addressed by society and through policy implementation. The most important of these issues include the relationship between the future role of the fossil fuel using industry and bioenergy, addressing the inadequate and currently confusing level of policy support, and responding to the perception of low public acceptance, reflected by pressure from some nongovernmental organizations to reduce the use of bioenergy. The study shows that biomass is not always the best option in economic terms, and other options such as heat pumps powered by green electricity or natural gas can be more financially attractive. To ensure the continuing development of the bioenergy field in the EU, it is important to increase local policy support for bioenergy, decrease imports of fossil fuels from non‐EU countries, increase investment in the bioenergy sector, and engage in effective and fact‐based education about, and promotion of, bioenergy.

Long-Term Energy System Modelling for a Clean Energy Transition and Improved Energy Security in Botswana’s Energy Sector Using the Open-Source Energy Modelling System

This research examines Botswana’s significant reliance on coal and imported fossil fuels for electricity generation, contributing to high carbon emissions and energy insecurity influenced by volatile fuel prices and supply challenges. The study utilizes the Open-Source Energy Modelling System (OSeMOSYS) to explore cost-effective renewable energy strategies to meet Botswana’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and enhance energy security by 2050, analysing six scenarios: Least Cost (LC), Business-As-Usual (BAU), Net Zero by 2050 (NZ), Coal Phase Out by 2045 (CPO), Fossil Fuel Phase Out by 2045 (FFPO), and Import Phase Out by 2045 (IMPPO). Our key findings highlight the critical role of solar technologies—photovoltaic (PV), storage, and concentrated solar power (CSP)—in transitioning to a sustainable energy future, especially under the Net Zero and Import Phase Out scenarios. This research demonstrates the economic and environmental benefits of transitioning away from fossil fuels, with the Fossil Fuel Phase Out scenario yielding a USD 31 million saving over the Business-As-Usual approach and reducing investment costs by USD 2 billion, albeit with a slight increase in light fuel oil imports. The study underscores the need for substantial capital investments, particularly in the Net Zero and Import Phase Out scenarios, necessitating private sector financing. Policy recommendations include adopting detailed strategies for solar PV and storage expansion, updating renewable energy targets, phasing out coal and natural gas, and bolstering the regulatory framework. These strategies are crucial for Botswana to achieve decarbonization and energy independence, aligning with global climate goals and national energy security objectives.

Investigating the Effect of Renewable Energy Utilization and Trade Openness Towards the Economic Growth and Environmental Quality in South Asia: A Comparative Study for South Asian Countries

This study aims to investigate the relationship between trade openness and the use of renewable energy sources and South Asia's economic growth and environmental quality. Since renewable energy offers a more sustainable and environmentally friendly option than fossil fuels, it becomes essential to attaining sustainable development. Using renewable energy has grown in popularity as a global solution to the urgent problems of energy security, climate change, and environmental sustainability. Renewable energy must be used by South Asian nations in order to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, maintain long-term energy security, and promote economic resilience. Incorporating renewable energy could enhance the country's energy situation, lessen dependency on imported fossil fuels, and open up new business prospects. Data on the use of renewable energy is gathered for the variable of renewable energy use. Data regarding GDP is gathered for the gross domestic product variable using current US dollars. The Energy Information Administration is the source of the data regarding the use of renewable energy (EIA). Additionally, the World Development Indicators database (WDI) is where the GDP and trade openness data are gathered. The following nations are represented in the data, which was gathered between 2001 and 2020: Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan. We investigated the long-term relationship between energy consumption, economic growth, and environmental quality in this analysis using the Panel ARDL approach. The dependent variables in the equation above are the environmental quality and economic growth of the Asian developing nations that were chosen for analysis. According to the study's conclusion, TO, GDP, and RNW have long-term negative effects on the environment since they raise CO2. Conversely, RNW reduces CO2, however the effect is negligible compared to other relevant variables. While the results of the CD test show the presence of CSD, the Pedroni Panel Cointegration Test reveals long-run cointegration of a series. The correlation matrix displays the relationship between the variables. The result showed how strongly, negatively, or positively the factors linked with one another. Additionally, there is a substantial positive correlation between GDP and carbon dioxide, its dependent variable. Additionally, RNW are found to be directly related to one another. Both the TO and GDP have a strong and direct correlation, and there is a positive and significant relationship between GDP and RNW. The other cross-sections are connected to this one. They are interdependent and have an impact on one another. Using South Asia as a focus, this study looks at how trade openness and the use of renewable energy affect environmental quality and economic growth in nations including Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Bhutan, and the Maldives.

A Critical Analysis of Morocco’s Green Hydrogen Roadmap: A Modelling Approach to Assess Country Readiness from the Energy Trilemma Perspective

Morocco, despite its heavy reliance on imported fossil fuels, which made up 68% of electricity generation in 2020, has recognised its significant renewable energy potential. The Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) commitment is to reduce emissions by 45.5% from baseline levels with international assistance and abstain from constructing new coal plants. Moreover, the Green Hydrogen Roadmap aims to export 10 TWh of green hydrogen by 2030, as well as use it for local electricity storage. This paper critically analyses this Roadmap and Morocco’s readiness to reach its ambitious targets, focusing specifically on an energy trilemma perspective and using OSeMOSYS (Open-Source energy Modelling System) for energy modelling. The results reveal that the NDC scenario is only marginally more expensive than the least-cost scenario, at around 1.3% (approximately USD 375 million), and facilitates a 23.32% emission reduction by 2050. An important note is the continued reliance on existing coal power plants across all scenarios, which challenges both energy security and emissions. The assessment of the Green Hydrogen Scenarios highlights that it could be too costly for the Moroccan government to fund the Green Hydrogen Roadmap at this scale, which leads to increased imports of polluting fossil fuels for cost reduction. In fact, the emission levels are 39% higher in the green hydrogen exports scenario than in the least-cost scenario. Given these findings, it is recommended that the Green Hydrogen Roadmap be re-evaluated, with a suggestion for a postponement and reduction in scope.

Sustainable energy transition in Bangladeshi academic buildings: A techno-economic analysis of photovoltaic-based net zero energy systems

Bangladesh faces challenges with global carbon emissions and energy security due to its heavy reliance on imported fossil fuels. This paper investigates the techno-economic viability of photovoltaic (PV) systems for achieving net-zero energy in academic buildings as a sustainable alternative. The study evaluates the performance of PV systems based on factors including annual energy production, capacity factor, net-zero energy potential, self-consumption/sufficiency ratio, renewable fraction, levelized cost of energy (LCOE), net present value (NPV), payback period, profitability index (PI), and carbon emission reduction. The results indicate that optimally sized PV systems can generate net positive energy: 6.18 MWh for universities, 4.04 MWh for high schools, and 3.62 MWh for primary schools. Economic viability was assessed under two billing methods (net metering and all energy buy/sell), and all cases showed positive NPV and PI values greater than 1. Decarbonization analysis revealed significant reductions in CO2 emissions: 2026.5 tons for universities, 18.9 tons for high schools, and 9.7 tons for primary schools. Finally, a sensitivity analysis assessed the optimal PV system size for seven other regions in Bangladesh. These findings suggest that the widespread adoption of PV systems in academic buildings can play a crucial role in achieving net-zero energy, contributing significantly to the government and policymakers' pursuit of sustainable development goals.

Analysis of wind characteristics and wind energy resource assessment for Tonga using eleven methods of estimating Weibull parameters

Analysisof wind characteristics and assessment of wind energy resource is carried out at a location in Tonga with the help of twelve months of measurements carried out at 34 m and 20 m heights above ground level. The daily, monthly and annual averages are computed. The wind shear analysis and its diurnal variation were studied and compared with the temperature variation. The turbulence levels at the two heights were estimated for the entire measurement period as well as for some typical days. For estimating the Weibull parameters, eleven methods were employed along with goodness of fit and error estimates to find the best method. The overall averaged wind speed for the entire period of study is estimated to be 4.41 m/s at 34 m above ground level. The predominant wind direction was south-east for Tonga. ‘Moments’ is seen to be the best method to determine accurate Weibull parameters. The average net annual energy production from one Vergnet 275 kW wind turbine is 198.57 MWh. A payback period of 8.95 years by installing five turbines near the measurement location was estimated, which is very encouraging in terms of investment. Installing wind turbines will lower the heavy reliance on the imported fossil fuels in the country and also help in achieving Sustainable Development Goal 7.

Land use and Europe’s renewable energy transition: identifying low-conflict areas for wind and solar development

Continued dependence on imported fossil fuels is rapidly becoming unsustainable in the face of the twin challenges of global climate change and energy security demands in Europe. Here we present scenarios in line with REPowerEU package to identify Renewables Acceleration Areas that support rapid renewable expansion, while ensuring minimal harm to places important for biodiversity and rural communities. We calculated the area needed to meet renewable energy objectives under Business-as-Usual (BAU) and Low-conflict (LCON) development scenarios within each country, providing a broad overview of the potential for renewable energy generation to reduce impacts when development is steered toward lower conflict lands. Our analysis shows that meeting renewable energy objectives would require a network of land-based wind turbines and solar arrays encompassing upwards of 164,789 km2 by 2030 and 445,654 km2 by 2050, the latter roughly equivalent to the land area of Sweden. Our results highlight that BAU development patterns disproportionately target high-conflict land cover types. By 2030, depending on the development pathway, solar and wind development are projected to impact approximately 4,386–20,996 km2 and 65,735–138,454 km2 of natural and agricultural lands, respectively. As renewable energy objectives increase from 2030 to 2050 impacts to natural and agricultural lands also increase, with upwards of 33,911 km2 from future solar development and 399,879 km2 from wind development. Despite this large footprint, low-conflict lands can generate substantial renewable energy: 6.6 million GWh of solar and 3.5 million GWh of wind, 8–31 times 2030 solar objectives and 3–5 times 2030 wind objectives. Given these patterns, we emphasize the need for careful planning in areas with greater impact potential, either due to a larger demand for land area or limited land availability. Top-emitting countries with large renewable energy objectives (Germany, Italy, Poland, France, Spain) and those with limited flexibility in meeting objectives on low-conflict land (Albania, Slovenia, Montenegro, Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Bosnia Herzegovina, Finland, Greece, Portugal, and Norway) should be priorities for country-level customizations to guide low-conflict siting and avoid disproportionate impacts on high-value areas.

Massive Solar PV Potential in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is facing an energy crisis due to insufficient exploitation of renewable energy resources and high reliance on imported fossil fuels. Building-integrated PV (BIPV) systems are one approach that provides various benefits in countries with limited land areas and congested metropolitan regions for ensuring energy security. This study was conducted to evaluate the rooftop solar PV capacity and yearly electricity generation potential in selected provinces in Sri Lanka. The study found 115 km2 of rooftop area for solar PV installation in four Sri Lankan provinces; Sabaragamuwa, Western, Northern, and North Central with approximately 25 GW of solar PV installation capacity could lead to annual electricity generation of 45 TWh which could reduce carbon emissions by 20 million tCO 2 per year.

Vision of Offshore Energy Hub at Faroe Islands: The Market Equilibrium Impact

This study examines the integration of an offshore wind farm and green hydrogen production as a strategy to enhance the Faroe Islands' energy independence and reduce its carbon footprint. Utilizing the EnergyPLAN tool and market economic simulations, including Levelized Cost of Hydrogen and Net Present Value calculations, the research evaluates the economic viability and environmental impact of transitioning to renewable energy sources by 2030. The analysis explores various scenarios, ranging from dedicated offshore wind for in-turbine hydrogen production to platform-based electricity and hydrogen distribution. Results indicate that integrating offshore wind with green hydrogen production can significantly reduce CO2 emissions and dependency on imported fossil fuels. However, financial viability hinges on supportive mechanisms such as investment subsidies. The study's findings suggest that achieving economic feasibility requires strategic policy frameworks. This research contributes to the discourse on sustainable energy planning by offering insights into the dynamics of system integration, market economic simulations, and the role of support mechanisms in facilitating the green transition.

Implementation of european trends regarding the reduction of air pollutants in Ukraine

The paper analyses European trends in reducing emissions of harmful substances and carbon dioxide. Today, the problem of increasing CO2 is an acute one, and thus the task of decarbonising the planet is an important task for the global community. Along with this, the negative impact of other pollutants, such as NOx and SO2, on the environmental situation in Ukraine and the world as a whole is also important.In order to reduce the amount of polluting gases in the air of Ukraine, it was decided to turn to the experience and practice of the European Union (EU) countries and analyse what has already been done, as well as what is planned to be done in this direction in the coming decades. To this end, we analysed the actual data on the reduction of CO2, NOx, and SO2 emissions by European countries and compared their plans for further emission reductions in the coming years.The theoretical data of the study on the actual reduction of air pollutant and carbon dioxide emissions by European countries, as well as their plans for further reduction of these emissions, are of practical importance, as they show global trends in this problem of global importance and should be applied in all future energy plans both in Ukraine and other countries where this is not taken into account. Therefore, an effective and scientifically based plan for energy saving, clean energy production, and diversification of energy resources is needed to accelerate the transition to clean energy, increase energy independence from unreliable suppliers and unstable supplies of imported fossil fuels (in particular, accelerated phase-out of russian fossil fuels by 2030, which are used by the aggressor as an economic and political weapon), and help solve the climate crisis.

Production of Biodiesel from Caster Oil: Experimental and Optimization Study

Biodiesel production provides a diversified and renewable energy source offering lower greenhouse gas emissions than traditional diesel. It also offers economic benefits by reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels. Castor oil transesterification is an essential process in the creation of biodiesel. In this experimental study, castor oil transesterified using methanol, and potassium hydroxide was the catalyst. The effects of various reaction parameters, including temperature, the molar ratio of methanol to oil, and catalyst concentration, on the biodiesel yield were studied and optimized by the conventional method followed by the statistically based Box-Behnken design method. The maximum yield was reached at a temperature of 65°C, a molar ratio of 12:1 methanol to oil, and a catalyst concentration of 1.5% by weight. The yield of biodiesel under these conditions was 93%. The optimized results of experiments showed increases in yield to 93.36% at 65°C temperature, 14.12:1 a molar ratio methanol to oil, and a 1.12% by weight catalyst concentration; hence, the optimal temperature was the highest achieved value. The fatty acid methyl ester composition analysis revealed that the major constituents of the biodiesel were ricinoleic acid methyl ester, linoleic acid methyl ester, and oleic acid methyl ester. The findings of this research highlight the significance of selecting the appropriate reaction conditions to maximize biodiesel yield. Also, it was found that castor oil had the potential to be an essential feedstock for biodiesel production.

Institutional investor behaviour and the energy transition: A complexity framework for accelerating sustainable finance from UK investors

Despite sustainable investment flows having increased significantly over the past decade for transforming the current energy system, a large investment gap remains. This research explores the complex links between institutional investors' expectations on the speed of the energy transition and their sustainability-related investment behaviours. Through in-depth semi-structured interviews with institutional investors, we construct a complex system model using a causal mapping approach, illustrating complex relationships within the sustainable investment system. Our contribution involves the development of multi-layer cognitive maps for different types of institutional investors, followed by a composite causal map that dissects key investment behaviours and investor expectations. Results reveal interlinked concepts influencing investment behaviour and highlight feedback loops with potential amplifying effects on investor expectations and investment behaviour. Two critical feedback loops emerge: 1) the interplay between political and financial support for the energy transition and the associated cost, and 2) the intricate relationship between sustainability factors and asset valuation. Addressing these interconnected issues simultaneously and monitor negative feedback loops that may curtail sustainable finance flows are vital. The results reveal heterogeneities amongst institutional investors such as fiduciary duties, stranded assets, the importance of fossil fuels in the energy system. In sum, our insights provide a foundation for holistic energy policies and a reference system for evaluating policies aimed at accelerating green finance.

Evaluation of Biomass Energy Policy Implementation in Indonesia to National Defense Support

Biomass energy is recognized as having strategic potential in overcoming energy security challenges and its participation to reduce the impact of environmental problems. The research-purpose is to evaluate how implementing a biomass energy policy can support national defense and sustainability. Through the framework of the literature, this study describes the concept of biomass energy and examines its relation to national defense. Energy policy analysis and reversed with energy security in Indonesia are also obtained from the reflection of the literature. The results show that biomass energy can strengthen the security of a country's energy supply by diversifying energy sources and reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels. This will support the operational defense system in dealing with fluctuations in energy prices and supplies. The implementation of biomass energy also has the potential to increase national energy independence, reduce the risk of energy supply disruptions, and strengthen national resilience. Utilization of biomass energy also contributes to improving climate change and negative environmental impacts. With the right technology, reductions in greenhouse gas emissions can be achieved, supporting environmental sustainability goals and securing the future of national defense

A novel two-stage multicriteria decision-making approach for selecting solar farm sites: A case study

The Baltic region relies heavily on imported fossil fuels and strongly emphasizes renewable energy development. However, certain obstacles, such as site selection, hinder solar energy development in this region. Therefore, major energy stakeholders must identify optimal solar photovoltaic construction locations. The present study endeavored to conduct a comprehensive and meticulous review of pertinent literature published from 2013 to 2023 to identify critical factors that influence site selection and look into various methodologies employed in this domain. Later, a two-stage approach was used for the first time to identify the most suitable locations among 39 potential cities in the Baltic region for constructing solar PV farms. In the first stage, Data envelopment analysis (DEA) models were used to filter out the areas with the highest potential by measuring their efficiency indices using temperature, wind speed, humidity, precipitation, and air pressure as inputs and sunshine hours, elevation, and irradiation as outputs. Subsequently, six selected evaluation criteria were used to prioritize the locations with solar energy potential. In the second stage, CRiteria Importance Through Intercriteria Correlation (CRITIC)-Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) was used to determine the criteria's objective weights and rank potential sites for the research case study. The results indicate that 25 locations in the Baltic region are suitable for building solar farms, with specific photovoltaic power output being the most significant criterion that impacts solar site selection. Furthermore, by excluding Gross domestic product (GDP) and labor force from the analysis, the results can align with the Global Solar Atlas's reports.

Future Assessment of Low Cost EV Automobile Market in Bangladesh

The global automotive landscape is undergoing a profound transformation, driven by the imperative to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change. Bangladesh, a densely populated country grappling with environmental challenges and urban traffic, stands poised at the brink of embracing electric mobility as a solution. This abstract delves into the future trajectory of the low-cost electric vehicle (EV) market in Bangladesh, examining key factors influencing its growth, challenges hindering its adoption, and potential strategies for overcoming these barriers. The low-cost EV market in Bangladesh presents a promising avenue for sustainable transportation, offering the dual benefits of reducing carbon emissions and mitigating dependence on imported fossil fuels. This includes fostering collaboration between the government and private sector to develop comprehensive EV policies, investing in research and development to enhance battery technology and drive down costs, and implementing targeted financial incentives to make EVs more accessible to a wider demographic. Furthermore, public awareness campaigns and educational initiatives can play a crucial role in dispelling misconceptions and fostering acceptance of EVs among consumers. In conclusion, while challenges persist, the future of the low-cost EV market in Bangladesh is undeniably bright. With the right mix of policy support, infrastructure development, and industry innovation, Bangladesh has the potential to emerge as a regional leader in sustainable transportation, paving the way for a cleaner, greener, and more prosperous future.

Natural Gas Matters: LNG and India’s Quest for Clean Energy

India, the world’s most populous country, is the world’s third-largest emitter of greenhouse gases (GHGs). Despite employing several energy sources, it still relies heavily on coal, its primary energy source. Given India’s swiftly rising energy demand, this challenges meeting emission reduction targets. In recent years, India has significantly increased investments in renewables like solar and hydrogen. While commendable, these initiatives alone cannot meet the country’s expanding energy demands. In the short term, India must rely on both domestic and imported fossil fuels, with natural gas being the most environmentally friendly option. In this context, this paper attempts to forecast energy consumption, natural gas production, and consumption in India until 2050, using both univariate and multivariate forecasting methods. For multivariate forecasting, we have assumed two alternative possibilities for GDP growth: the business-as-usual and the high-growth scenarios. Each of our forecasts indicates a notable shortfall in the projected production of natural gas compared to the expected demand, implying our results are robust. Our model predicts that nearly 30–50 percent of India’s natural gas consumption will be met by imports, mainly in the form of LNG. Based on these findings, this paper recommends that Indian government policies emphasize increasing domestic natural gas production, importing LNG, and expanding renewable energy resources.