Investment In Energy Infrastructure Research Articles

Environmental and Socio-Economic Impact Assessment of Renewable Energy Using Machine Learning Models

Renewable energy sources, such as solar, hydro, wind, and geothermal energy, have emerged as key alternatives to fossil fuels in combating climate change and addressing energy security concerns in the USA and ad worldwide. Strategic use of this renewable resource is important not only for carbon emission reduction and improvement of environmental sustainability but also for maintaining future energy supplies. At the same time, such transition raises thorough assessments of environmental and socio-economic impacts. Machine learning (ML) models offer a powerful tool for predicting and analyzing such impacts, allowing for more efficient decision-making and long-term planning. These models are supposed to analyze patterns in energy production, land use, and emissions to make a more dynamic and predictive understanding of how renewable energy adoption influences CO2 levels. The principal aim of this research project was to develop and curate machine learning algorithms for predicting CO2 emissions based on renewable energy data, using the knowledge to better understand how solar, wind, hydro, and geothermal energy systems affect environmental outcomes. The predictive models developed in this research would serve as useful tools for the policymakers and major stakeholders in decision-making on investments in energy infrastructure and characterization of regulatory frameworks. These datasets for this research project were retrieved from several prominent institutions, including governmental agencies, international organizations such as the International Energy Agency-IEA and the World Bank, satellite data repositories, and USA environmental monitoring agencies. For this research project, 3 machine learning algorithms in the experiment were used, namely Logistic Regression, XG-Boost, and Random Forest. Amongst these three, the linear regression model gave the best performance, as it had the least MSE; indicating that its predictive capability was impressive. The comparative analysis of renewable energy projects in Germany, China, and California underlines that effective policy-making plays a very decisive role in the transition toward sustainable energy.

Assessment of Energy Security in West Africa: A Case Study of Three Countries

The study draws key energy policy lessons by assessing and comparing the energy security performance of Burkina Faso, Nigeria and Ghana. The Energy Security Index with application to West Africa is created from eight dimensions and 24 indicators using a simple additive method and non-statistical induced weights. Study results show that the main energy security challenges in West Africa are low public investment in energy infrastructure (including renewable energy), high energy prices, low electricity access, high energy system inefficiencies, armed attacks on energy infrastructure and deteriorating energy sector governance. The study recommends prioritising investment in electricity sector infrastructure in West Africa.

The Effect of Clean Energy Technology Infrastructure Development on Regional Economic Growth in Indonesia

This study investigates the effect of clean energy technology infrastructure development on regional economic growth in Indonesia. Using a quantitative research design, data were collected from 70 respondents across different regions using a Likert scale ranging from 1 to 5. The analysis was conducted using SPSS version 26 to examine the relationship between clean energy infrastructure and regional economic performance. The results show a strong positive correlation between clean energy technology infrastructure and regional economic growth, with a statistically significant relationship. Furthermore, multiple regression analysis indicates that clean energy infrastructure development significantly predicts economic growth, while geographic location and government policy also play important roles. These findings suggest that investments in clean energy infrastructure are crucial drivers of regional economic development and highlight the need for supportive policies to maximize the benefits of renewable energy projects. This study provides valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders in advancing sustainable development through clean energy initiatives.

Global value chain participation, globalisation-Energy Nexus and sustainable development in ASEAN

Achieving net zero carbon emissions necessitates a systemic reorganization of global value chains, particularly in the ASEAN region, due to its growing role as a manufacturing hub. This study explores the interaction between global value chains (GVCs), globalization and sustainable development in ASEAN countries from 2014 to 2022. Using data from sources like the World Development Indicators, Human Development Index, Eora Global Value Chain Database, and others, the study employs a system-generalized method of moments to address endogeneity. The findings reveal that GVC participation significantly impacts sustainable development, with a 1 % increase in GVC involvement leading to a 0.11 % rise in sustainable development. Additionally, globalization metrics such as trade openness and merchandise trade, excluding foreign direct investment, also positively influence sustainable development. When combined with GVCs, these factors further enhance sustainable outcomes. The study also highlights the positive impact of trading in low-carbon goods on sustainable development. Based on these findings, the study recommends policies that promote sustainable production practices within GVCs, sustainable urban planning, good governance, and investment in green infrastructure. Additionally, increased investment in renewable energy technologies and infrastructure is essential to ensure equitable access to clean energy. Governments should prioritize transitioning to low-carbon energy sources to mitigate the negative effects of greenhouse gas emissions.

Total electricity generation dynamics analysis and renewable energy impacts in South Africa

AbstractThis research explores the dynamics of total electricity generation (TEG) in South Africa through an analysis of data from the International Energy Agency database from 1990 to 2020. A comprehensive examination of various energy sources, including coal, oil, biofuels, nuclear, hydro, solar photovoltaic (PV), solar thermal, and wind, is conducted to ascertain their respective contributions to TEG. Employing the R software environment, the study employs a methodical analytical framework encompassing meticulous data preparation, statistical analysis, and model formulation. The data preparation phase involves intricate processes such as structuring, cleansing, and visualization aimed at eliminating stochastic variables and outliers. Missing data are addressed through the application of the Piecewise Cubic Hermite Interpolating Polynomial method. Subsequent statistical analyses are informed by tests for normality and homogeneity of variance, revealing deviations from normality and disparate variances across energy source groups. Consequently, non‐parametric methodologies such as the Kruskal–Wallis test are adopted. Findings underscore the significant role of nuclear energy in TEG despite facing challenges. Model development entails the construction of multiple linear regression models with varying predictor sizes, with Model m06 emerging as the optimal choice, incorporating key predictors such as coal, nuclear, and solar PV. Rigorous diagnostic assessments confirm the robustness of Model m06 and its suitability for TEG prediction. Comparative analysis against actual data validates its superior performance, characterized by minimal errors and high predictive accuracy. The efficacy of Model m06 in capturing TEG dynamics underscores its utility for informing energy planning initiatives. Recommendations derived from the study advocate for prioritizing renewable energy integration, infrastructure investment, research endeavors, monitoring mechanisms, and public awareness campaigns to advance sustainable energy development goals in South Africa.

Impacts of Renewable Energy Transitions on the Economic Growth in Malaysia: A Dynamic ARDL Simulations

This study explores the dynamic relationships between renewable energy transitions and economic growth in Malaysia, with a specific focus on hydroelectric power, using the Dynamic Autoregressive Distributed Lag (D-ARDL) simulations. The research leverages extensive time-series data from 1988 to 2022 to analyze the impacts of hydroelectric and non-renewable energy consumption on the nation's economic trajectory. Our findings indicate a positive long-term relationship between hydroelectric power usage and GDP growth, highlighting renewable energy's pivotal role in sustainable economic development. Additionally, the study examines the short-term adjustments and the effectiveness of hydroelectric power in reducing dependence on non-renewable energy sources, which are crucial for achieving Malaysia's Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) for 2030. The dynamic ARDL simulations provide nuanced insights into the potential future impacts of increased hydroelectric power usage, underscoring its dual benefits for economic growth and environmental sustainability. This research contributes to the understanding of energy transitions within the context of Malaysia's unique economic and environmental landscape, offering implications for policy and investment in renewable energy infrastructure.

Promoting Environmental Sustainability: The Role of Renewable Energy Systems and Environmental Taxes

This study examines the effects of renewable energy consumption and environmental taxes on CO2 emissions in OECD countries from 1990 to 2022, employing the cross-sectional autoregressive distributed lag (CS-ARDL) approach. The findings reveal that both renewable energy consumption and environmental taxes significantly reduce CO2 emissions in both the short and the long term, emphasizing their crucial roles in climate change mitigation and sustainability promotion. Furthermore, this study identifies that industrialization and urbanization contribute to increased emissions, whereas foreign direct investment aids in emission reduction through the facilitation of green technology transfer. Economic growth is initially associated with higher emissions, but this trend reverses as economies mature and adopt sustainable practices. These results highlight the importance of continuous investment in renewable energy infrastructure and the implementation of robust environmental tax policies to achieve long-term sustainability goals. The integration of environmental considerations into economic and urban planning, along with leveraging foreign direct investment for technological advancements, is imperative for balancing economic growth with the necessity to reduce carbon emissions and effectively address climate change. This research provides a better understanding of the diverse factors influencing CO2 emissions and offers critical insights for policymakers.

"An Integrated Model for Adopting Renewable Energy in IRAQ: A Standard Study for the Period (1992-2023)"

Data related to the study variables were collected for the period from 1992 to 2023, with the sample size reaching 31 observations for each variable. This research aims to review and analyze descriptive data for these multiple variables, which are related to different areas of renewable energy use and electricity consumption in Iraq. This research addresses important variables, including renewable energy, government policies related to it, and the level of public awareness of the subject. In addition, other variables such as electricity consumption, country's population, volume of imports and exports, economic growth, technological innovation, and foreign direct investment flows are analysed. The importance of this research is to understand the trends and factors influencing the field of renewable energy in Iraq, which can contribute to developing effective policies to promote the use of renewable energy and achieve environmental and economic sustainability in the country. Considering the negative impact, the variables EC (electricity consumption), NPG (population) and GP (economic growth) seem to have a negative impact on renewable energy production in the long run. Increased electrical consumption and population and economic growth can lead to increased demand for traditional sources of energy, reducing environmental sustainability and exposing the country to negative consequences in the future. On the other hand, the positive effect of the variables EG (economic growth), FDIF (foreign direct investment inflows), I (imports), PA (exports) and TI (technological innovation) on renewable energy production is shown. Increased investment in renewable energy infrastructure and adoption of clean technology can contribute to achieving environmental sustainability and boosting the economy. Using EViews 12 software, these variables will be analyzed according to available data with the aim of understanding trends, challenges and opportunities related to renewable energy in Iraq.

Assessment of natural resources for energy transition in Rivers state, Nigeria

The increasing problems associated with global climate change due to the use of fossil fuels and greenhouse gases in the atmosphere call for serious concerns. This scenario has necessitated the need for a shift from the use of fossil fuels to renewable energy to curtail the impact of climate change on the environment. The study was conducted to assess the potential and variability of climatic and other natural resources for renewable energy and evaluation of public perception of the energy transition process in Rivers State Nigeria. The climate data was obtained from the Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NIMET) from 2000 and 2023 and analyzed using the Linear Regression Model while data on public perception was generated from structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics. The outcome of the Regression and ANOVA analysis were generally significant for both the natural resources and residents of the study area. Also, 65.7% of the respondents affirmed that the available natural resources are viable and suitable for energy transition. The significant and positive relationship of the different climatic elements in the study signposts huge potential for the renewable energy transition in the study area. The perception of residents was positive and showed excellent knowledge of the abundance of natural resources for the energy transition. It is therefore recommended that the Rivers State government should partner with the private sector to increase investment in energy infrastructure for improved environmental sustainability.

Bioclimatic design strategies and energy efficiency in an orthopaedic hospital in Nigerian cities: A cross-sectional study

2050 building stock might be buildings that already exist today. A large percentage of these buildings fail today’s energy performance standards. Highly inefficient buildings delay progress toward a zero-carbon-building goal (SDGs 7 and 13) and can lead to investments in renewable energy infrastructure. The study aims to investigate how bioclimatic design strategies enhance energy efficiency in selected orthopaedic hospitals in Nigeria. The study objective includes Identifying the bioclimatic design strategies that improve energy efficiency in orthopaedic hospitals, assessing the energy efficiency requirements in an orthopaedic hospital in Nigeria and analysing the effects of bioclimatic design strategies in enhancing energy efficiency in an orthopaedic hospital in Nigeria. The study engaged a mixed (qualitative and quantitative) research method. The investigators used case study research as a research design and a deductive approach as the research paradigm. The research employed a questionnaire survey for quantitative data while the in-depth Interview (IDI) guide and observation schedule for qualitative data. The findings present a relationship between bioclimatic design strategies and energy conservation practices in an orthopaedic hospital building. Therefore, implementing bioclimatic design strategies might enhance energy efficiency in hospital buildings. The result of the study revealed that bioclimatic hospital designs may cost the same amount to build but can save a great deal on energy costs. Despite the challenges, healthcare designers and owners are finding new ways to integrate bioclimatic design strategies into new healthcare construction to accelerate patient and planet healing.

Household Energy Clean Transition Mechanisms under Market Failures: A Government Financing Perspective

Abstract: Clarifying the principles governing the transition to cleaner household energy is crucial for enhancing households’ access to clean and efficient energy, thereby enhancing households’ welfare and overall societal well-being. However, most existing energy transition theories are grounded in assumptions of perfect market functionality. This paradigm deviates from the reality of market failure and needs to comprehensively elucidate the process of transitioning to cleaner household energy. This study develops a framework for understanding the transition to cleaner household energy within the context of market failure. It investigates the effects and mechanisms of government funding and energy endowment on this transition, considering the accessibility and affordability of clean energy. The analysis is based on 20 years of data on rural energy consumption across 29 provinces in China. The findings reveal that government funding inputs significantly enhance the transition to cleaner household energy, facilitated by the clean energy supply effect, clean technology promotion effect, clean knowledge dissemination effect, and financial constraint alleviation effect. Heterogeneity analysis indicates that in regions abundant in renewable energy, government funding inputs can effectively stimulate the development and utilization of renewable energy sources, thereby enhancing the accessibility of clean energy and driving the transition to cleaner household energy. Finally, it is recommended that the market play a constructive role in the energy transition process in addition to increased government investment in energy infrastructure, extension services, and public education.

Renewable, Flexible, and Storage Capacities: Friends or Foes?

Problem definition: More than 99% of the new power generation capacity to be installed in the United States from 2023 to 2050 will be powered by wind, solar, and natural gas. Additionally, large-scale battery systems are planned to support power systems. It is paramount for policymakers and electric utilities to deepen the understanding of the operational and investment relations among renewable, flexible (natural gas-powered), and storage capacities. In this paper, we optimize both the joint operations and investment mix of these three types of resources, examining whether they act as investment substitutes or complements. Methodology/results: Using stochastic control theory, we identify and prove the structure of the optimal storage control policy, from which we determine various pairs of charging and discharging operations. We find that whether storage complements or substitutes other resources hinges on the operational pairs involved and whether executing these pairs is constrained by charging or discharging. Through extensive numerical analysis using data from a Florida utility, government agencies, and industry reports, we demonstrate how storage operations drive the investment relations among renewable, flexible, and storage capacities. Managerial implications: Storage and renewables substitute each other in meeting peak demand; storage complements renewables by storing surplus renewable output; renewables complement storage by compressing peak periods, facilitating peak shaving and displacement of flexible capacity. These substitution and complementary effects often coexist, and the dominant effect can alternate as costs change. A thorough understanding of these relations at both operational and investment levels empowers decision makers to optimize energy infrastructure investments and operations, thereby unlocking their full potential. Funding: This research was supported in part by Lilly Endowment, Inc., through its support for the Indiana University Pervasive Technology Institute. This research was also supported by Kelley School of Business, Indiana University, and Haslam College of Business, University of Tennessee. O. Q. Wu thanks Grant Thornton for their generous support. Supplemental Material: The online appendix is available at https://doi.org/10.1287/msom.2023.0068 .

Optimizing Grid Performance in Trinidad and Tobago: The Role of Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) Technology

This study investigates the impact of integrating 10,000 battery electric vehicles (BEVs) into the electrical grid of Trinidad and Tobago through three charging scenarios: non-incentivized charging, charging at work, and a Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) program. The results reveal that non-incentivized charging exacerbates peak demand and grid strain, while workplace charging provides only modest peak demand mitigation. In contrast, the V2G scenario significantly reduces peak load impacts and enhances grid stability by leveraging BEVs as dynamic energy storage units that contribute to grid services during high-demand periods. The study proposes a V2G tariff scheme that includes compensation for battery degradation, aiming to incentivize participation and offset potential costs. Economic analysis shows that while V2G involves higher per-MWh costs than conventional storage technologies, it avoids the need for substantial capital investment in static energy infrastructure, presenting a cost-effective solution for energy management in island nations. The findings highlight the potential of V2G technology to facilitate sustainable energy transitions, emphasizing its role in enhancing grid resilience, optimizing renewable energy usage, and reducing carbon emissions. This research underscores the transformative potential of V2G systems as critical enablers of sustainable energy strategies in regions facing similar challenges to Trinidad and Tobago.

Assessment of Wind Energy Potential at Three Prime Locations in Saudi Arabia: Analysis of Sharma, Qurayyat and Sakaka Sites

Purpose: The research aims to assess the wind energy potential at three chosen sites in Saudi Arabia Sharma, Al Qurayyat, and Sakaka over a five-year period from 2019 to 2023. The main goal is to determine the most favorable locations for wind farm development based on wind speed characteristics, Weibull distribution parameters, and wind power density (WPD). Materials and Methods: The wind speed data for the chosen locations was obtained from NASA's wind website and analyzed using the Weibull distribution to determine the shape (k) and scale (c) parameters, which are indicative of wind speed distribution. Critical metrics such as mean wind speed, WPD, and the most probable wind speed were computed to evaluate the wind energy potential. The Vestas V150-4.2 MW turbine was utilized to estimate potential energy output, considering the variability and reliability of wind resources at the specified locations. The study utilized tables, figures, and wind rose diagrams to highlight important wind parameters like mean wind speed, Weibull parameters, WPD, and Vmax for each location. Flowcharts were also used to summarize the methodology and conclusions, ensuring a clear and comprehensive presentation of the data. Findings: The analysis showed that Qurayyat consistently had the highest mean wind speed and WPD, indicating excellent wind energy potential. Sharma and Sakaka also displayed significant wind resources, with high mean wind speeds and substantial WPD values. The Weibull parameters indicated that all three sites have favorable wind characteristics for energy production. The estimated energy output using the Vestas V150-4.2 MW turbine ranged from 12,809 to 17,807 MWh/yr at Site 18, 14,095 to 15,170 MWh/yr at Site 24, and 14,013 to 15,832 MWh/yr at Site 31. Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy: The study presents a thorough evaluation of the wind energy potential in the Al-Jawf and Tabuk regions of Saudi Arabia. It contributes to a deeper understanding of wind resource distribution and its significance for the development of renewable energy. The study provides valuable insights for wind farm developers and policymakers by identifying the most promising locations for investment in wind energy infrastructure. Furthermore, it emphasizes the need for detailed site-specific analyses to optimize wind energy deployment, aligning with Saudi Arabia's broader renewable energy objectives.

Unveiling Key Factors Shaping Energy Storage Strategies for Sustainable Energy Communities

This research delves into a case study of a photovoltaic (PV) energy community, leveraging empirical data to explore the integration of renewable energy sources and storage solutions. By evaluating energy generation and consumption patterns within real-world energy communities (a nominal generation capacity of 33 kWn) in Gipuzkoa, Spain, from May 2022 to May 2023, this study comprehensively examines operational dynamics and performance metrics. This study highlights the critical role of energy consumption patterns in facilitating the integration of renewable energy sources and underscores the importance of proactive strategies to manage demand fluctuations effectively. Against the backdrop of rising energy costs and environmental concerns, renewable energies and storage solutions emerge as compelling alternatives, offering financial feasibility and environmental benefits within energy communities. This study emphasizes the necessity of research and development efforts to develop efficient energy storage technologies and the importance of economic incentives and collaborative initiatives to drive investments in renewable energy infrastructure. The analyzed results provide valuable insights into operational dynamics and performance metrics, further advancing our understanding of their transformative potential in achieving a sustainable energy future. Specifically, our study suggests that storage capacity should ideally support an average annual capacity of 23%, with fluctuations observed where this capacity may double or reduce to a minimum in certain months. Given the current market conditions, our findings indicate the necessity of significant public subsidies, amounting to no less than 67%, to facilitate the installation of storage infrastructure, especially in cases where initial investments are not covered by the energy community.

Smart investment framework for energy resilience: A case study of a campus microgrid research facility

Energy resilience is a vital consideration for ensuring the survivability of modern infrastructure systems. Achieving 100% resilience, however, is often impractical and economically burdensome. In this paper, we propose a smart investment framework that enables decision-makers to determine optimal investments in energy resilience based on available resources and desired levels of resilience. To illustrate the effectiveness of this framework, we present a case study of a campus microgrid research and testing facility. Using a real-time simulation approach conducted with Typhoon Hardware In Loop (HIL), we evaluate the performance of the microgrid system over 24 hours following 4 historically significant hurricanes that have affected Louisiana in the past few years. The microgrid is designed to power local loads during outages, providing an effective solution for enhancing energy resilience. Real solar data collected from our 1.1 Megawatt (MW) solar facility on the University of Louisiana at Lafayette campus is integrated into the simulation, enabling a realistic evaluation of the system’s performance under hurricane-induced disruptions. By employing the proposed smart investment framework, decision-makers can better identify and address resilience challenges. The framework facilitates informed investment decisions by considering available resources and aligning them with the desired level of resilience. This approach avoids over-investment in unnecessary redundancy while ensuring critical systems are adequately protected. Our research contributes to the field by demonstrating the practicality and benefits of a smart investment framework for energy resilience in a real-world scenario. The case study of the campus microgrid research facility provides valuable insights for decision-makers in similar contexts, highlighting the potential of this framework to guide resilient energy infrastructure planning and investment strategies.

CO2 emissions–economic growth nexus: Validity of EKC in oil‐exporting and oil‐importing countries

AbstractThe purpose of this study is to examine and compare the validity of the environmental Kuznets curve and the relationship between carbon dioxide emissions, per capita GDP, fossil fuel consumption, oil prices and foreign direct investment in advanced oil‐importing and oil‐exporting countries from 1970 to 2020. The researchers consider these nations for their dependency on oil resources and their different economic characteristics. The Westerlund (Oxford Bulletin of Economics and Statistics, 2007, 69, 709) co‐integration test shows that the studied variables are co‐integrated in the long run in both panels of the countries. The pooled mean group‐autoregressive distributed lag (PMG‐ARDL) model established by Pesaran et al. (Journal of the American Statistical Association, 1999, 94, 621), which assesses the short‐ and long‐run nexus between the variables of interest, detects statistically significant associations, providing evidence to support the hypothesis of EKC in both groups. Furthermore, foreign direct investment and fossil fuel consumption have long‐term positive effects on CO2 emissions. The main difference between both groups of countries is that oil price has a positive effect on CO2 emissions in oil‐exporting countries, while it has a negative effect on environmental degradation in oil‐importing countries. The study suggests increasing investment in renewable energy infrastructure by encouraging research and development, providing subsidies and tax incentives for renewable energy companies and promoting large‐scale renewable energy projects as they contribute to environmental quality.

Revisiting the Nexus between Renewable Energy Consumption and Economic Growth in Nigeria: The VECM Approach

The research investigates the effect of renewable energy consumption on economic growth as well as analyzing the dynamic relationship between both variables from 1990 to 2022. Annual secondary data covering the period between 1990 and 2022 were used in the study. Data on real gross domestic product, renewable energy consumption (% of total final energy consumption), gross capital formation (% of GDP), labor force, total and trade (% of GDP) were sourced from World Development Indicator. The study applies Johansen co-integration test and Vector Error Correction Model (VECM) to examine the effect of renewable energy consumption on economic growth and other explanatory variables as well as using pairwise granger causality test to examine the causal relationship between both variables. The empirical evidence revealed long-term relationship between renewable energy consumption and economic growth. Evidence shows that there is no causality either unidirectional or bi-directional between both variables. In short run, renewable energy consumption revealed a significant positive impact on economic growth. This shows that renewable energy may stimulate economic growth, particularly as it has a greater short-term impact on economic growth than capital formation. The key policy implication drawn from the results indicate the need for investment in renewable energy technologies and infrastructure, which can help to increase the availability and affordability of renewable energy, improve workforce development in Nigeria renewable energy sector.

Toward a physical Dodge City high voltage direct current (HVDC) electricity hub

A physical Dodge City high voltage direct current (HVDC) electricity commodity hub would foster the kind of risk transfer that would invite the full participation of the financial industry in an interstate transmission system essential to the speedy development of renewable electricity and complementary storage technologies. Obstacles lie in the way of such a vision, however. Chief among them, paradoxically, is the administrative system that has evolved since the late 1990 s to promote regional electricity markets. That system abstracts from investment risk and the nation’s uneven geography of renewable resources. It lodges a kind of monopoly planning and scheduling power in a small group of bureaucratic centralized system operators that mimics a command economy in their own distinct regions, not the kind of market economy that has traditionally driven investment in US interstate energy infrastructure. And yet, in dealing with the vexing transmission constraints faced by the renewable generating sector (the “queue”), the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) continues to pursue ever greater authority for those regional transmission organizations (RTOs). Such FERC action regarding its RTOs in 2022–23 represents a highly evident case of path dependency—a problem—that state or federal policy makers wishing to speed the entry of large-scale renewable generation, and complementary storage technologies, will have find a way either to confront directly or to work around.

Defining a ‘Just Energy Investment’ for the ASEAN Just Transition

Governments across the world have been updating their energy and climate policies since the 2015 Paris Agreement. One common feature is the advent of long-term plans for a net-zero economy for 2050 and also in some cases to 2060. To meet these long-term net-zero targets therefore, significant investment in new and clean energy infrastructure is needed. This research focuses on how to ensure that this required energy investment happens in a ‘just’ way, i.e., it contributes to fairness, equity, equality and inclusiveness. Recently, countries such as the United States, South Africa and Colombia have incorporated justice principles into their energy and climate policies. This research builds on this and is the first to assess justice in consideration of these time horizons along with its focus on the 10 South-East Asian nations, known as ASEAN countries. The data analysed here provides insight into how energy investments are developing in these countries, whether justice policies are aligned and therefore how to avoid energy policy failure. Further, as well as the conceptual advances, this research provides a model for a Just Energy Investment (JEI) Index based on the five energy justice principles. The analysis here focuses on countries of the Global South where there exists limited research that looks at the performance over time of the combined issue of energy investments and justice; this demonstrates this research as a significant contribution to the literature. This research marks a first step in delivering justice in new energy development as these economies build towards their 2050 and 2060 energy and climate targets.