Net-zero Emissions Research Articles

Evaluation of Indian Railway’s Supply Chain Parameters for Improved Sustainability Under Industry 4.0 Transformation: An Application of AHP and TOPSIS

Indian Railways (IR) is India’s major public transportation system and one of the world’s largest and busiest rail networks. The Indian government is in charge of owning and running it. This paper presents an alternative approach to measuring the overall operational performance of the Indian Railway supply chain. The operation of Indian railways from a supply chain perspective needs to be analyzed to improve customer service and inventory management.Industry 4.0 is used for the easy processing of individual transportation components efficiently and safely. The study is useful for the Indian Railways because it enables the classification of various issues related to government procurement. A supply chain model is proposed to assess service expectations and quality. Various issues (such as the integration system, financial behavior, and management perspective) related to supply chain management have been identified, and various factors affecting availability, railway service quality, and reliability have been analyzed for managing its supply chain. The Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) and TOPSIS have been used to examine inventory-related difficulties and make recommendations for the public procurement environment. The result of the AHP method showed that Model 1 (Integration System) has the highest Max_C_weight of 0.5348, followed by Model 2 (Financial Behavior, 0.381695) and Model 3 (Management Perspective, 0.399443). The consistency ratio (CR) for all three models was also less than 0.1. Further, the TOPSIS method was used to validate the accuracy of AHP results and found that the model is significant. This result will help the decision-makers at Indian Railways design an assessment and relationship management model that will help them make procurement the driving force behind their supply chain.As per COP27, Industry 4.0 will help to achieve net zero emissions. The net carbon emissions will be reduced to zero, which will result in a clean environment.To improve sustainability within the framework of the Industry 4.0 transition, the research aimed to evaluate the Indian Railway’s supply chain metrics. Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) and Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) are methodologies used in this assessment.

Comparing CO2 Storage and Utilization: Enhancing Sustainability through Renewable Energy Integration

Addressing the environmental challenges posed by CO2 emissions is crucial for mitigating global warming and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. This study compares CO2 storage (CCS) and utilization (CCU) technologies, highlighting the benefits of integrating captured CO2 into fuel production. This paper focuses on various carbon utilization routes such as Power-to-Gas via the Sabatier reaction, indirect production of DME, and Power-to-Fuel technologies. The maturity of these technologies is evaluated using the Technology Readiness Level (TRL) method, identifying the advancements needed for future implementation. Additionally, global regulations and policies surrounding carbon capture and storage are reviewed to provide context for their current status. The study emphasizes the potential of CCU technologies to reduce future CO2 emissions by converting captured CO2 into valuable fuels and chemicals, thus supporting the transition to a sustainable energy system. The findings indicate that while CCS technologies are more mature, promising CCU technologies can significantly contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions if green hydrogen becomes more affordable. This research underscores the importance of further technological development and economic evaluation to enhance the feasibility and adoption of CCU technologies in the pursuit of long-term environmental sustainability.

Climate change impact on nuclear power outages - Part I: A methodology to estimate hydro-thermic environmental constraints on power generation

To better qualify the ability of nuclear power to contribute to the net-zero emissions transition, the nuclear power sector needs to understand its sensitivity to hydro-climatic and anthropogenic stresses at the local level. While current approaches based on statistical modelling can be used to assess climate change impacts on electricity networks at a global or national level, they are limited when extrapolated to regulatory thresholds at a local level.As part of a series of two papers aimed at assessing the impact of climate change on site-specific nuclear power outages, this paper presents a modelling chain for estimating hydro-climatic-policy scenarios for nuclear power generation. The second one will implement the modelling chain in context of climate change, based on downscaled IPCC scenarios, and applies the method to two contrasted French nuclear power plants.The modelling framework (power outages modelling bias of +7.0 %) appears as a strong basis for investigating the impact of climate change on nuclear power outages in terms of frequency and magnitude. Such work could inform on the evolving sensitivity of the nuclear fleet to support the energy grid, to potentially optimize its management, and to define water-energy nexus levers to better anticipate the effects of climate change.

Preface

Mai Trong Nhuan, Nguyen Manh Khai, Vo Le Phu, Chau Nguyen Xuan Quang, Pham Trung Hieu, Doan Quang Tri, Nguyen Thi Hoai Nga (Editors) International Conference on Earth and Environmental Sciences, Mining for Digital Transformation, Green Development and Response to Global Change (GREEN EME 2023) Proceedings of International Conference on Earth and Environmental Sciences, Mining for Digital Transformation, Green Development and Response to Global Change (GREEN EME 2023) Global change, rapid development of science and technology, and the fourth industrial revolution (Industry 4.0) create many opportunities and challenges for sustainable development. Vietnam, being one of the most vulnerable countries to climate change and natural disasters, is devoting great efforts to achieve sustainable development goals and net zero emissions by 2050 as well as to improve productivity and national competitiveness. In this context, innovation, digital transformation in training, basic and applied research on EME become more urgent than ever for green, circular development and response to global change, sustainable development, prosperity, and safety of the country, the region and the world. The fields of Earth, Mines, and Environmental sciences (EME) have emerged and evolved alongside with the evolution of human society, and have created a profound impact on all aspects of life and socio-economic development through utilizing natural resources, impacting the environment, and driving global change. The robust development of these areas serves as the foundation for various other fundamental and applied sciences, and concurrently acts as a catalyst for technological advancements worldwide, contributing to the common prosperity and safety of humankind as well as the conservation of the blue Earth. The EME with the theme of “Earth and Environmental Sciences, Mining for Digital Transformation, Green Development and Response to Global Change” (GREEN EME 2023) was held in Ho Chi Minh City in December 29, 2023. The GREEN EME 2023 was successfully co-organized by Viet Nam National University Ho Chi Minh City, in collaboration with Viet Nam Meteorological and Hydrological Administration, the Interdisciplinary Council for Professorship of Earth - Mining Sciences, as well as various research institutes and local and international higher education institutions. The GREEN EME 2023 covers six topics: (i) Big Data and Artificial Intelligence in Earth Sciences, Mines, Environment; (ii) Digital Transformation in Earth, Mining, Environmental Sciences; (iii) Sustainable energy transition for green, renewable (wind power, solar power, gas power, geothermal, garbage electricity, hydrogen, etc.) and low carbon emission technologies; (iv) Circular economy in resource-mineral management and sustainable development; (v) Climate change response and disaster risk reduction; (vi) Solutions to promote innovation in the fields of Earth Science, Mining and Environment to meet the goal of sustainable development. Overall, the Conference has attracted more than 100 papers from scientists, researchers, government managers, and graduate students. Among them, 90 high-quality papers were recommended to submit for peer-reviewing. Then, the double-blind review process was carried out for the 85 papers, in which each paper has been reviewed for its merit and novelty by at least two reviewers and one editor by matching the content areas. As a result, a total of 24 papers have been finally selected to be published in IOP Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science. It is strongly believed that this proceedings provides a broad overview of recent advanced studies in the fields of Earth, Mines, and Environmental sciences with a profound impact on all aspects of life and socio-economic development through utilizing natural resources, impacting the environment, and driving global change. List of Editors, International Scientific Committee and Conference Organizing Committee are available in this Pdf.

Opportunities beyond net-zero CO2 for cost-effective greenhouse gas mitigation in China

Achieving net-zero CO2 emissions is the current main focus of China’s carbon neutrality goal. However, non-CO2 greenhouse gases (GHGs) are more powerful climate forcers, making their emission reduction an opportunity to rapidly mitigate future warming. Here, we evaluate non-CO2 mitigation potentials, costs and climate benefits in the context of China’s carbon neutrality goals. The assessment is conducted by coupling the integrated assessment model GCAM with a climate emulator. The findings indicate that mitigation technologies can largely reduce fluorinated gas emissions from industrial sectors, but long-term non-CO2 reductions of energy sector activities rely heavily on fuel switching. Furthermore, the cumulative costs of deploying non-CO2 mitigation technologies are projected to be less than 10% of the total costs of achieving carbon neutrality from 2020 to 2060. If non-CO2 mitigation measures are included in the overall mitigation portfolio, the benefits of avoided warming would by far outweigh the total mitigation cost increase. Our results thus highlight that incorporating a wider suite of GHGs into climate change mitigation strategies can enhance the cost-effectiveness of mitigation efforts.

Techno-economic assessment of electro-synthetic fuel based on solid oxide electrolysis cell coupled with Fischer–Tropsch strategy

Electro-synthetic fuel is proposed as an approach to achieve net-zero carbon emissions for heavy-duty internal combustion engines and meet carbon neutrality targets. This method is based on high temperature co-electrolysis using a solid oxide electrolysis cell (SOEC) coupled with Fisher-Tropsch (FT) synthesis due to its high efficiency and carbon recycling capacity. To access the techno-economic viability of this pathway and identify the key elements impacting the cost of electro-synthetic fuels, a comprehensive techno-economic model is constructed. This model aims to offer cost cutting guidance and includes SOEC, FT, and techno-economic sub-models, with SOEC and FT validated using literature data. The cost breakdown and sensitivity analysis indicate that heating costs, electricity prices, and stack lifetime are critical factors in reducing the cost of electro-synthetic fuel. Three alternative system layouts that fully utilize thermal and chemical energy are proposed to address the significant heating expense issue. Among these, the optimal system design lowers costs by approximately 5.3 %. Furthermore, this work introduces the contradiction between high performance, high stability, and low-cost accounting for the SOEC lifetime, which is bounded by operating current density. When considering the degradation and replacement of SOEC stacks, the long-term profitability of operating SOEC at a current density of 500 mA/cm2 is superior to that of 850 mA/cm2. Despite the most effective layout being currently unprofitable, it is anticipated that in the future, carbon trade, renewable electricity and technological advancements will drive the cost of electro-synthetic fuel to become competitive with that of diesel.

Coproduction of Integrated Weather and Climate Services to Support Net-Zero Energy Transitions

Abstract Weather and climate services (W&CS) are key to supporting the transition to net-zero emissions in the energy sector. These services are utilized to increase energy system resilience, enhance renewable energy deployment, and enable the uptake of energy-efficiency measures and innovations. As energy systems become increasingly dependent on and affected by weather and climatic conditions, integrating weather and climate data into energy management systems is essential. This paper addresses the gap in comprehensive guidance for developing integrated W&CS to support net-zero energy transitions, drawing upon a report by the World Meteorological Organization’s Services Commission Study Group on Integrated Energy Services. We present a framework for coproduction of W&CS, exploring how the uptake of W&CS for energy transitions can be enabled through the evaluation of socioeconomic benefits, harnessing business models, identification of key policies, and capacity development measures. To support the uptake of W&CS for net-zero energy transitions, we recommend a deeper understanding of user needs and requirements; continuous advancements in the science and technology of W&CS; effective integration of weather and climate data within energy conversion models; improved accessibility and sharing of meteorological and, especially, energy data; promotion of coproduction approaches; exploration of novel applications of W&CS in the energy sector; refinement of business models for sustainable W&CS delivery; execution of capacity-building activities; and enhanced communication among stakeholders and strengthened collaborative efforts. These steps are crucial for realizing the full potential of W&CS in driving the energy sector toward a sustainable, net-zero future.

The energy mix dilemma in Indonesia in achieving net zero emissions by 2060

Background: The global responsibility to reduce greenhouse gas emissions forces Indonesia to evaluate its energy policies and strategies. The energy mix dilemma in Indonesia arises as a consequence of rapid economic growth, rapid urbanization, and the continuously increasing energy demand. By 2060, Indonesia aims to have an energy mix dominated by renewable energy sources (RES) and to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels. The importance of reducing greenhouse gas emissions is becoming increasingly apparent, considering Indonesia is one of the countries highly vulnerable to climate change. Method: This study employs a combined approach of policy analysis and literature review. The method used in this research is an objective narrative literature review as a reference for conducting the literature study. Findings: In 2023, Indonesia is still heavily reliant on fossil fuels, primarily coal, oil, and natural gas. The Indonesian government has enacted several regulations related to energy use, including policies for the development of renewable energy. Despite efforts to reduce emissions through the application of clean technologies, the main challenge is significantly replacing fossil energy sources with renewable energy. Several inhibiting factors emerge as real challenges in the journey to achieve Net Zero Emissions. Technological and infrastructure constraints are the main obstacles. The strategic importance of sustainable economic growth is a central point in this dilemma. However, the transition to net zero emissions often requires structural adjustments that can impact the economy. Conclusion: The process of transitioning to renewable energy must be carefully implemented to avoid the risk of supply instability. The alignment between economic growth, energy security, and emission reduction is key to designing effective and sustainable policies. Novelty/Originality of this Study: This study provides a comprehensive examination of Indonesia's energy mix dilemma in the context of achieving net zero emissions by 2060, specifically highlighting the intricate balance between sustainable economic growth, energy security, and global climate commitments. By adopting a holistic approach that involves the government, private sector, and societal participation, the research offers innovative policy recommendations for transitioning from non-renewable to renewable energy sources while addressing socio-economic challenges.

Energy Mix for Energy Transition: Role of Renewable Energy in Nigeria

Given Nigeria’s commitment to attain net-zero carbon emissions by 2060, this study presents an optimal energy mix for attaining Nigeria’s energy transition goals. The results of the threshold analysis methodology showed that Nigeria’s energy mix has a threshold level of 1.3397 per cent, below which an increase in renewable energy production will result in a significant increase in carbon emissions. Given the current high cost of adopting renewable energy sources, transition fuels such as natural gas and LNG could be utilized. Furthermore, joint efforts between monetary and fiscal authorities are needed to reduce the country’s carbon footprint.

Strategy for developing the utilization of organic waste as an alternative source of electricity in Indonesia

Background: Indonesia has pledged to reach its Net Zero Emission target by 2060, necessitating the shift to renewable energy sources. To achieve this, Indonesia must transition from its current reliance on fossil fuel power plants to renewable energy generators, ensuring the same or greater electricity capacity. One viable renewable energy source is organic waste. This study aims to explore strategies for developing organic waste as an alternative energy source to bolster Indonesia's energy resilience and environmental sustainability. Method: The research employs a qualitative approach, including literature reviews and qualitative descriptive analysis. Result: Waste to Energy (WtE) processes convert waste into electricity and/or heat, aiding in greenhouse gas reduction, improving waste management efficiency, and supporting sustainable development. WtE technologies can utilize both thermochemical and biochemical methods to convert waste into energy. The Indonesian government is known to have 12 projects to accelerate the installation of Waste Processing into Electrical Energy, both the Waste Power Plants that have been in operation and under construction and using gasification as the method. The development of WtE faces various challenges ranging from completeness and consistency of regulations, high tipping fees, complex cooperation mechanisms and business models, problems with the characteristics and nature of Indonesian waste that need special handling, and rejection from residents. Conclusion: Strategies that can be implemented in developing WtE in Indonesia include drafting policies and regulations, increasing public awareness, collaboration with the private sector, choosing the right technology, developing infrastructure, increasing the efficiency of waste collection, and international partnerships. Novelty/Originality of this study: This research offers concrete strategies to develop Waste to Energy (WtE) technology in Indonesia, including policy formulation, increasing public awareness, and collaboration with the private sector to utilize organic waste as a renewable energy source to support the 2060 Net Zero Emission target.

The role of digital social practices and technologies in the Swiss energy transition towards net-zero carbon dioxide emissions in 2050

Digitalization can be an enabler of new and less energy-intensive lifestyles. However, it can be associated with rebound effects in energy consumption. For example, home office can reduce the mobility demand but increase residential energy consumption. Here, we analyze the role of households' social practices induced by information and communication technologies (ICTs) in Switzerland's transition to net-zero carbon dioxide emissions in 2050. We couple the Swiss TIMES Energy Systems Model with a socio-technical-economic agent-based model (SEED) to perform long-term pathway analysis by accounting for the socio-economic and technical aspects of technology adoption. We find an overall net-positive contribution of digitalization to the Swiss energy transition. A society adopting more digital practices and ICTs requires 10–20% less energy in 2050 than a society with a digitalization rate frozen at 2020 levels. We show that any rebound effects in energy consumption that digital practices can induce are counterbalanced by more efficient technologies and optimized processes enabled by ICTs. While digitalization helps to meet the Swiss energy and climate targets for 2050 and reduces the energy transition costs for society, policy support is necessary to develop the population's digital skills, services' digitalization, and network infrastructures.

Configuration optimization of a wind-solar based net-zero emission tri-generation energy system considering renewable power and carbon trading mechanisms

Incorporating renewable energy and carbon trading mechanisms within the optimization methods could enhance both the environmental and economic benefits of energy systems. A tri-generation system powered by solar and wind energy is introduced, utilizing solar photovoltaics, wind turbines, and a solar cooling/heating subsystem to attain net-zero carbon emissions via renewable power and carbon trading mechanisms. An improved multi-objective algorithm optimizes the configurations of the energy system across different scenarios. The optimization results demonstrate that the integration of wind turbines, ideally with capacities near 20 MW, lessens the dependence on external power sources and decreases annual expenditure relative to systems relying solely on photovoltaic. Meanwhile, water-cooled chillers are capable of addressing over 88% of the cooling demand, with capacity exceeding 11 MW. Sensitivity analysis highlights that increasing power grid coverage and microgrid penetration rates decrease total costs, while higher building demands reduce economic performance. A new operating mode of net-zero carbon energy systems is provided in the present study.

Strategic Siting of Direct Air Capture Facilities in the United States

Direct air capture (DAC) systems that capture carbon dioxide (CO2) directly from the atmosphere are garnering considerable attention for their potential role as negative emission technologies in achieving net-zero CO2 emission goals. Common DAC technologies are based either on liquid–solvent (L-DAC) or solid–sorbent (S-DAC) to capture CO2. A comprehensive multi-factor comparative economic analysis of the deployment of L-DAC and S-DAC facilities across various United States (U.S.) cities is presented in this paper. The analysis considers the influence of various factors on the favorability of DAC deployment, including local climatic conditions such as temperature, humidity, and CO2 concentrations; the availability of energy sources to power the DAC system; and costs for the transport and storage of the captured CO2 along with the consideration of the regional market and policy drivers. The deployment analysis in over 70 continental U.S. cities shows that L-DAC and S-DAC complement each other spatially, as their performance and operational costs vary in different climates. L-DAC is more suited to the hot, humid Southeast, while S-DAC is preferrable in the colder, drier Rocky Mountain region. Strategic deployment based on regional conditions and economics is essential for promoting the commercial adoptability of DAC, which is a critical technology to meet the CO2 reduction targets.

Gasification and Techno-Economic Study of Palm Shell Biomass and the Utilization of Dual Fuel Diesel Engine Operated Diesel Engine

Indonesia's oil reserves and production are steadily declining, accompanied by increasing fossil fuel consumption, particularly in Diesel Power Plants, which contribute to environmental impacts and exacerbate global warming. In response, the government issued a policy in 2028 to implement carbon emission trading for Diesel Power Plants with a capacity below 2 MW, as part of Indonesia's commitment to achieving Net Zero Emission (NZE) by 2060. Considering the significant state assets in the form of diesel-powered generators (approximately 5,200 diesel power plants) still operating throughout Indonesia, the government has also issued policies and strategic plans to develop Biomass Power Plants. This research focuses on examining the combination of biosolar B35 and syngas usage in diesel engines, known as dual fuel engine technology, utilizing abundant palm shell biomass waste in Southeast Sulawesi. The gasification process to create syngas uses a multi-stage downdraft gasifier system with the optimal air ratio variation from previous research, namely 1:7:2 in the pyrolysis, oxidation, and reduction zones. Testing is conducted on a diesel engine at 3000 rpm with load variations ranging from 500 Watt to 4500 Watt. The load is gradually increased at 500-Watt intervals. The syngas mass flow rate is also varied by adjusting four different syngas valve openings to the diesel engine's intake manifold. This study will compare the results of diesel engine operation using single fuel (biosolar B35) with dual fuel (biosolar B35 + syngas) at each engine load interval to determine engine performance, biosolar B35 fuel substitution or savings, carbon reduction in the dual fuel diesel system, and calculate the techno-economics for up-scaling on a 250 kW capacity engine at PT Nusantara Power, Unit Pembangkitan Kendari, ULPLTD Kolaka, Southeast Sulawesi. The aim is to support government programs and policies in realizing environmentally friendly and sustainable Diesel Power Plants, as well as to open opportunities for developing biomass-based dual fuel engine technology in Indonesia.

Kajian Tekno “Waste to Electric” dengan Bahan Baku Pelet Woodchip Memalalui Gasifikasi Multi Stage pada Mesin Diesel Dual Fuel

Global warming and climate change have significant impacts on various sectors, including water scarcity, climate changes, social vulnerabilities, ecological damage, infrastructure damage, economic damage, health risks, air quality issues, biodiversity loss, and air quality. As of the end of 2023, Indonesia has power plants with a total capacity of 83.8 GW, comprising 79.8 GW of on-grid plants and 3.95 GW of off-grid plants. This figure indicates an increase in power plants of nearly 1.7 times over the past 10 years. Power generation is still dominated by coal, which constitutes up to half of the total national capacity, followed by gas energy at about 25%. Meanwhile, renewable energy-based power plants make up only 15%, having increased by just around 6 GW in the last 10 years. The utilization of renewable energy in power generation is dominated by hydro power (58%), geothermal (20%), and biomass (18%). In line with the government’s plan to decarbonize and achieve the Net Zero Emissions target by 2060, the 2021-2030 RUPTL (Long-Term Electricity Supply Plan) is designed to be the greenest RUPTL, with the Environmental Friendly Power Generation Plan or New Renewable Energy (EBT) reaching 52% of the total additional power plant capacity. One source of EBT power generation is biomass, derived from wood waste or the use of HTI (Industrial Timber Estate) wood processed into syngas through a gasification process for further conversion into environmentally friendly energy. Gasification is the process of converting woodchips as the raw material in a three-stage gasification process to produce syngas as fuel for diesel engines. During the gasification process, variations in the air ratio will be managed in the pyrolysis, oxidation, and reduction zones with air ratio settings of 0:10:0, 1:8:1, 2:7:1, and 1:7:2. The syngas produced from this process will be used as fuel for diesel engines with a dual fuel system. The characterization of the performance of the dual fuel diesel engine will be conducted by testing the engine at 5000 rpm with load variations from 500 watts to 5000 watts in 500-watt increments and varying the syngas mass flow rate by adjusting the syngas valve opening to the diesel engine. The objective of this research is to determine that gasification of woodchips into syngas can be a promising potential source of renewable, environmentally friendly electrical energy and an alternative to support government programs through the decarbonization of diesel engines.

Physics-informed neural networks for phase locked loop transient stability assessment

A significant increase in renewable energy production is necessary to achieve the UN’s net-zero emission targets for 2050. Using power-electronic controllers, such as Phase Locked Loops (PLLs), to keep grid-tied renewable resources in synchronism with the grid can cause fast transient behavior during grid faults leading to instability. However, assessing all the probable scenarios is impractical, so determining the stability boundary or region of attraction (ROA) is necessary. However, using EMT simulations or Reduced-order models (ROMs) to accurately determine the ROA is computationally expensive. Alternatively, Machine Learning (ML) models have been proposed as an efficient method to predict stability. However, traditional ML algorithms require large amounts of labeled data for training, which is computationally expensive. This paper proposes a Physics-Informed Neural Network (PINN) architecture that accurately predicts the nonlinear transient dynamics of a inverter with a PLL-based controller under fault with less labeled training data. The proposed PINN algorithm can be incorporated into conventional simulations, accelerating EMT simulations or ROMs by over 100 times. The PINN algorithm’s performance is compared against a ROM and an EMT simulation in PSCAD for the CIGRE benchmark model C4.49, demonstrating its ability to accurately approximate trajectories and ROAs of a inverter with a PLL-based controller under varying grid impedance.

Stochastic Optimal Strategies and Management of Electric Vehicles and Microgrids

This study combines the Nash–Cournot competition model and the stochastic optimization model to examine the impact of electric vehicle (EV) quantity fluctuations on microgrid operations, aiming to optimize energy usage in a competitive electricity market. Integrating distributed energy resources and bidirectional charging, microgrids offer a novel approach for energy optimization, aiding in renewable energy generation, peak demand management, and emission reduction. Empirical evidence highlights benefits in Taiwan’s electricity market and net-zero emissions target by 2050, with a case study demonstrating enhanced local renewable energy generation due to EVs and microgrid integration. As the number of EVs increases, electricity sales from microgrids decline, but electricity purchases remain stable. The degree of electricity liberalization also influences the supply and demand dynamics of the electricity market. Microgrids selling electricity only to the main grid increases total power consumption by 65.55 million MWh, reducing the market share of the state-owned utility (Taipower). Conversely, allowing retailers to purchase from microgrids increases total consumption by 30.87 million MWh with a slight market share decrease for Taipower. This study contributes to providing an adaptable and flexible general model for future studies to modify and expand based on different scenarios and variables to shape energy and environmental policies.

Clouding the Future: Innovating Towards Net-Zero Emissions

Purpose: This paper explores the intersection of cloud computing, generative artificial intelligence (AI), and sustainability, focusing on how these technologies can drive the transition towards net-zero emissions. The aim is to assess how integrating cloud-based solutions and AI can enhance energy efficiency and support environmental goals. Methodology: The study employs a comprehensive review of recent literature, industry reports, and case studies from major cloud providers and technology companies. It analyzes the sustainability commitments of leading cloud providers, evaluates the role of generative AI in optimizing resource utilization, and examines the benefits of serverless automation in reducing carbon footprints. Findings: The research finds that cloud providers are making significant strides in sustainability through ambitious climate commitments and energy-efficient technologies. Generative AI is shown to improve decision-making and resource management, while serverless automation optimizes resource use and minimizes energy consumption. These advancements collectively contribute to achieving long-term sustainability goals and enhancing operational efficiency. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice, and Policy: This paper provides a novel perspective on leveraging generative AI and serverless automation for sustainability. It offers actionable recommendations for organizations to integrate these technologies into their cloud strategies, emphasizing the importance of aligning with ESG criteria and optimizing data center operations. The findings support the development of policies that encourage technological innovation in the pursuit of environmental stewardship and carbon neutrality.

Predicting the economic feasibility of solar-based net-zero emission buildings (NZEBs) in the United States non-residential sector

Buildings have significantly contributed to high energy demand (30.3%) and GHG emissions (26.1%) worldwide. Consequently, many developed countries have set carbon-neutral targets for 2050, mandating that all new constructions thereafter be designed as net-zero emission buildings (NZEBs). To achieve this goal, one of the most practical sources of renewable energy, solar power, is employed in this study to estimate the economic feasibility of implementing NZEBs in the non-residential sector of the United States. While past studies have typically estimated the economic payback period of solar power technology by assuming fixed values for “PV energy conversion rates (%)” and “investment costs ($USD)”, this paper carefully investigated the economic feasibility of “solar-based NZEBs” by precisely tracking these dynamic future changes in PV panels. These techno-economic variables were carefully predicted using a statistical technique known as the five-parameter logistic (5 PL) function. The results show that Site 4 is the only solar region suitable for implementing “PV-integrated NZEBs”, reaching a payback period of 8.44 years in 2040 (Scenario 1). Furthermore, with small technological improvements in PV energy efficiency (%), buildings located in Site 3 and Site 4 can meet the net-zero emission target with payback periods of less than 10 years in 2034 (Scenario 2). Finally, starting in 2044, the “PV-integrated system” will have a payback period of approximately 7 years in most study locations, even without federal support for the solar investment tax credit (SITC). Accordingly, federal support for solar power generation will be more effective if the SITC rate is gradually reduced by 2.5% annually starting in 2033. In conclusion, this paper suggests the economic feasibility of implementing solar-based NZEBs in the United States non-residential sector by considering the synergetic effect of technological improvement and cost reduction in PV-integrated systems.

Enablers of net zero emission strategies in freight logistics: case of India

Enablers of net zero emission strategies in freight logistics: case of India