Energy for Sustainable Development最新文献

{"title":"Business models and access to finance for mini grid development in sub-Saharan Africa","authors":"A. Fajardo ,&nbsp;L.H. Baker ,&nbsp;T. Sesan ,&nbsp;S. Bhattacharyya ,&nbsp;D. Kerr ,&nbsp;M. Katyega ,&nbsp;A. Barnett","doi":"10.1016/j.esd.2025.101666","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.esd.2025.101666","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Drawing from a comprehensive literature review of publications from academia, industry, government and international institutions, this paper presents a critical analysis of the different business models and modes of finance for mini grids in SSA, alongside the operational risks and challenges faced by these emerging systems. First, we investigate the different business models that currently exist for mini grids in SSA, providing insights into the opportunities and challenges of each approach. Second, we identify access to finance as a prominent challenge to the expansion of ‘third generation’ or solar/ solar-hybrid mini grids in the region. In so doing, we explore the different configurations of actors, institutions and processes involved in the provision of finance and investment. Third, we examine key investment, regulatory and operational risks and challenges to the sector's current and future development.</div><div>Despite a notable growth in the deployment of solar and solar-hybrid mini grids in SSA and elsewhere, progress in bridging the rural electrification gap has been slow. More than 750 million people globally still lack access to electricity in the region, particularly in remote areas considered too poor to afford cost-reflective tariffs. As this paper argues, more clarity is needed between the enthusiasm expressed regarding the potential of mini grids and the level and quality of finance available for such systems.</div><div>While the literature points to hybrid ownership, partially subsidised models, a focus on anchor customers, and the bundling of projects into financial portfolios as the most promising business strategies, we argue that there is no one-size-fits-all solution for mini grid business models in SSA. An optimistic narrative towards private sector participation may not always translate into greater accessibility and affordability, particularly for geographically remote and low-income users. While the mini grid sector in SSA has grown significantly in recent years, securing adequate and appropriate external finance remains a key challenge.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":49209,"journal":{"name":"Energy for Sustainable Development","volume":"85 ","pages":"Article 101666"},"PeriodicalIF":4.4,"publicationDate":"2025-02-18","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143438100","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"工程技术","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"A comprehensive exploration of electric vehicles: Classification, charging methods, obstacles, and approaches to optimization","authors":"R. Sriabisha ,&nbsp;J. Aravind Kumar ,&nbsp;J. Jayaprabakar ,&nbsp;V.C. Deivayanai ,&nbsp;A. Saravanan","doi":"10.1016/j.esd.2025.101671","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.esd.2025.101671","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This comprehensive review explores the advancement of new electric vehicle (EV) technologies and addresses the challenges they face, with a particular focus on the evolution of EV charging infrastructure and its impact on the electricity distribution network. Beyond reducing reliance on fossil fuels, EVs play a pivotal role in transforming power generation and distribution. This facilitates a shift towards sustainable energy use. The review discusses the emergence of various EV technologies, ranging from plug-in electric vehicles (PEVs) to self-charging systems, and highlights their potential to drive innovation in transportation. It also provides an overview of cutting-edge methods, including charging optimization techniques and smart grid integration. Hence showcases their contributions to improve both efficiency and reliability within the industry. This analysis aims to provide a deeper understanding of the current state and future prospects of EVs, emphasizing their critical role in advancing green transportation and supporting the transition to sustainable energy systems.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":49209,"journal":{"name":"Energy for Sustainable Development","volume":"85 ","pages":"Article 101671"},"PeriodicalIF":4.4,"publicationDate":"2025-02-17","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143429692","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"工程技术","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Analysing the barriers to renewable energy adoption in Ghana using Delphi and a fuzzy synthetic evaluation approach","authors":"Gregory A. James ,&nbsp;Frederick S. Ahiabor ,&nbsp;Emmanuel M. Abalo","doi":"10.1016/j.esd.2025.101667","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.esd.2025.101667","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This study investigates the critical barriers to renewable energy adoption in Ghana, where reliable and sustainable energy access remains critical to achieving development goals and addressing climate change. Drawing from the existing literature, 44 barriers were identified and grouped into six categories: policy, institutional, economic/financial, structural/technical, political/legal/regulatory, and social. A two-round Delphi survey was implemented to gather consensus among 17 Ghanaian experts on renewable energy and climate change, resulting in 22 of the statements reaching consensus. A fuzzy synthetic evaluation (FSE) was used to rank these barriers based on their relative and overall importance in impeding the adoption of RE. The results show that policy, economic/financial, and institutional barriers are Ghana's main barriers to RE adoption. Key impediments include the lack of market-driven support, high commercial rates, and issues related to land litigation and availability. The study recommends regulatory and policy changes incorporating market-driven strategies and subsidies, and prioritising renewable energy in Ghana's power mix. Additionally, there is a need for training and awareness programmes to enhance social acceptance of RE sources.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":49209,"journal":{"name":"Energy for Sustainable Development","volume":"85 ","pages":"Article 101667"},"PeriodicalIF":4.4,"publicationDate":"2025-02-16","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143419774","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"工程技术","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Energy optimization of a residential building for electricity, cooling, and heating: A path to Net Zero Energy","authors":"Olivier Mekila Mbayam,&nbsp;Tijani Bounahmidi","doi":"10.1016/j.esd.2025.101672","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.esd.2025.101672","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This research investigates the feasibility of achieving a zero-energy residential building through the optimization of building design and the integration of a photovoltaic (PV) system. A 50 m² two-bedroom home in Fes, Morocco served as the case study. A sensitivity assessment using BEopt/EnergyPlus software analyzed the impact of materials and utilities on building energy consumption, costs, and savings. Parametric analysis identified closed-cell spray foam as the most effective for insulation and energy reduction. H-Gain low-E double-glazed insulated windows were found to be the most energy-efficient for energy savings. Additionally, a refrigerator with an EF of 19.9 was highlighted as highly efficient, consuming minimal energy relative to its cooling capacity, even in high-demand scenarios. Also, PVsyst was utilized for PV system design and energy generation analysis. The PV system produced 6325 kWh/year, with 5255 kWh used to meet energy demand, and 878 kWh/year excess energy not being used resulting in performance ratio of 68.88 % with a return on investment of 106.1 % and internal rate of return of 15.27 % with a payback period of 7.7 years simulated over 25 years period. The optimization process also contributed to substantial environmental benefits, avoiding 215.59 kg/year of CO2 emissions for the optimized building. This study demonstrates the potential for zero-energy residential buildings in Morocco, combining energy-efficient design with renewable energy solutions.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":49209,"journal":{"name":"Energy for Sustainable Development","volume":"85 ","pages":"Article 101672"},"PeriodicalIF":4.4,"publicationDate":"2025-02-13","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143394824","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"工程技术","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Energy efficiency improvement of a wood-manufacturing plant in Morocco through energy audit","authors":"C. Nait Abd,&nbsp;A. El Fadar,&nbsp;O.B. Achkari","doi":"10.1016/j.esd.2025.101669","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.esd.2025.101669","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The wood sector is vital for the global economy, supplying materials for construction and furniture, but its production processes are highly energy-intensive. In Morocco, the energy sector is central for regional economic growth but faces significant efficiency challenges. Hence, energy audits are essential for identifying inefficiencies and recommending improvements, especially for industrial establishments and companies, whose energy consumption exceeds 1500 toe, required to carry out an energy audit every five years. This paper details the steps and results of an energy audit at a Moroccan wood manufacturing facility, covering site visits, data collection, measurements, analysis and suggesting an action plan and recommendations. It also assesses the environmental and economic impacts of implementing this plan. The outcomes from this audit reveal that 80 % of electricity is consumed by motorization, and 13 % is allocated to lighting. In terms of recommendations, the findings indicate that installing capacitors, as solution to optimize the power factor, can reduce the examined motor's energy consumption by 37.5 %. In addition, replacing existing lamps with LED ones and incorporating occupancy sensors decrease the energy use by 32.18 % and 3.52 %, respectively, compared to their initial energy consumption. These three solutions result in a reduction of 17.6 % in the total energy bill and avoid 252.73 tons of CO₂ emissions annually. This article could serve as a guide for stakeholders and specialists, emphasizing the potential benefits of energy audits in enhancing energy efficiency, reducing energy costs, and mitigating environmental impacts in the wood industry.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":49209,"journal":{"name":"Energy for Sustainable Development","volume":"85 ","pages":"Article 101669"},"PeriodicalIF":4.4,"publicationDate":"2025-02-12","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143394823","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"工程技术","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"A systematic survey of household heating with biomass pellet stoves in rural Northern China","authors":"Sylvester Mawusi,&nbsp;Prabin Shrestha,&nbsp;Tong Gao,&nbsp;Ming Yan,&nbsp;Min Liu,&nbsp;Zhaomin Liu,&nbsp;Deborah Oyella,&nbsp;Yulai Liu,&nbsp;Renjie Yu,&nbsp;Youzhen Wang,&nbsp;Tongpu Feng,&nbsp;Chunyu Xue,&nbsp;Guangqing Liu","doi":"10.1016/j.esd.2025.101659","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.esd.2025.101659","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>China's strategies to reduce household air pollution and carbon emissions from heating include promoting biomass pellets for rural households. However, growth in biomass pellet heating in rural Northern China is slow. This study combined a systematic survey and literature review to analyze household heating with biomass pellets in rural Northern China. The limited market expansion of biomass pellet heating is due to a weak supply chain affecting the collection and utilization of biomass feedstock, fuel quality, and availability, as well as demand and supply issues. Household heating with biomass pellet stoves relies heavily on subsidies. Environmental benefits are uncertain due to unclear energy policy targets and a lack of strict national fuel quality and emissions standards and certification. Additionally, little is known about the field performance of biomass pellet stoves and the socioeconomic barriers to their widespread adoption. A two-path strategy is suggested for sustainable household heating in rural Northern China. The first path involves building a robust supply chain to enhance biomass pellet fuel and stove production. Existing energy policies should be reviewed to remove ambiguities, provide adequate fiscal support, and build sector capacity. Raising public awareness through demonstrations and conducting in-depth impact assessments of pellet-heating projects is crucial. Further research on cultural barriers to biomass pellet heating is needed. The second path suggests the short-term use of improved coal fuels and traditional biomass and stoves for affordability, with a long-term shift to subsidized electric heating systems, focusing on expanding to reduce initial costs. This balances environmental benefits with economic sustainability. Biomass pellets can be reallocated to industrial use, as industries require large fuel quantities, have higher purchasing power, and sophisticated emission capture technologies. This study provides insights for sustainable household heating policymaking in rural Northern China and assesses China's contribution to advancing the United Nations' sustainable development goals.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":49209,"journal":{"name":"Energy for Sustainable Development","volume":"85 ","pages":"Article 101659"},"PeriodicalIF":4.4,"publicationDate":"2025-02-12","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143387325","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"工程技术","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Navigating the AI-powered transformation of renewable energy supply chains: A strategic roadmap to digitainability","authors":"Iman Ghasemian Sahebi ,&nbsp;Abolfazl Edalatipour ,&nbsp;Mooud Dabaghiroodsari ,&nbsp;Seyyed Mohammad Hossein Hasheminasab ,&nbsp;Behzad Masoomi ,&nbsp;Seyedeh Elham Kamali","doi":"10.1016/j.esd.2025.101663","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.esd.2025.101663","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The global transition toward renewable energy necessitates supply chains that are not only sustainable but also digitally transformed - a concept we term digitainability. In this regard, Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology has emerged as a promising tool for advancing the digitainability of the renewable energy supply chain. This study investigates the transformative role of AI in advancing the digitainability of renewable energy supply chains. Through an extensive, content-focused literature review, the researchers identified 11 distinct AI functions critical to RESC digitainability. To better understand how these functions interact and complement each other, the study applied the Interpretive Structural Modeling (ISM) method, drawing on insights from supply chain experts. By employing ISM, we uncover the interdependencies among these functions and develop a strategic roadmap for their sequential implementation. Unlike prior studies, which often adopt linear approaches, this research provides a systemic and holistic framework for integrating AI capabilities to enhance supply chain sustainability. The roadmap equips managers and stakeholders with actionable insights to prioritize investments, foster collaboration, and navigate the complexities of AI adoption in RESC. By bridging theoretical exploration with practical application, this study contributes to the global effort to achieve a sustainable and digital energy future.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":49209,"journal":{"name":"Energy for Sustainable Development","volume":"85 ","pages":"Article 101663"},"PeriodicalIF":4.4,"publicationDate":"2025-02-08","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143349022","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"工程技术","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Environmental and social impacts of self-financed solar PV adoption in rural Zambia: Insights from mopane worms, mushrooms, fishing, bushmeat and ethnomedicine","authors":"Hillary Chanda ,&nbsp;Eugene Mohareb ,&nbsp;Michael Peters ,&nbsp;Chris Harty","doi":"10.1016/j.esd.2025.101665","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.esd.2025.101665","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This study, which is the first to study the relationship between Solar PV adoption in rural areas, and non-timber forest products (NTFPs), examines the environmental and social impacts of self-financed solar photovoltaic (PV) adoption in rural Zambia, with a focus on Mopane worms, mushrooms, fishing, bushmeat, and ethnomedicine - key NTFPs that rural households harvest for consumption and income generation. Qualitative research methods, including interviews and focus group discussions, were conducted across three geographically distinct and off-grid rural areas: Mkushi Rural (Central Province), Kapiri Rural (Central Province), and Chongwe Rural (Lusaka Province). These locations were selected for their relative isolation and lack of access to the national power grid.</div><div>Using the novel Rural Development Stakeholder Hybrid Adoption Model (RUDSHAM), this research explores the relationship between solar PV adoption and NTFP-based income. It highlights how NTFPs enable households to self-finance solar PV systems, reducing reliance on unsustainable biomass fuels while enhancing energy access. The paper also assesses the sustainability and scalability of NTFP-derived income.</div><div>Findings reveal a dual impact: while NTFPs are critical for financing solar PV adoption, their commercialization presents ecological risks, including overharvesting, habitat degradation, and biodiversity loss. Solar PV adoption contributes socio-economic benefits, such as reduced energy costs and improved household well-being, but exacerbates community tensions due to competition over limited NTFP resources.</div><div>To address these challenges, the study advocates for integrated strategies that combine renewable energy adoption with sustainable resource management. By emphasizing community-led governance and sustainable harvesting practices, it proposes a framework that aligns rural energy transitions with environmental conservation. The findings provide actionable insights for policymakers and development practitioners, contributing to the broader discourse on addressing energy poverty and ecological sustainability across Sub-Saharan Africa and similar rural contexts globally.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":49209,"journal":{"name":"Energy for Sustainable Development","volume":"85 ","pages":"Article 101665"},"PeriodicalIF":4.4,"publicationDate":"2025-02-08","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143349021","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"工程技术","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Determinants of electric vehicle adoption in urban and peri-urban areas","authors":"Ari Rahman ,&nbsp;I Wayan Koko Suryawan ,&nbsp;Sapta Suhardono ,&nbsp;Van Viet Nguyen ,&nbsp;Chun-Hung Lee","doi":"10.1016/j.esd.2025.101664","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.esd.2025.101664","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This study delves into the factors influencing the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) in urban and peri-urban areas, focusing on the roles of availability, accessibility, affordability, and acceptability. Utilizing probit and logit models, the research evaluates how demographic characteristics such as age, income, and residence, along with beliefs about economic and environmental benefits, affect individuals' willingness to adopt EVs. The findings reveal that while urban residents are slightly more inclined towards EV adoption due to better infrastructure, significant gaps in EV infrastructure and high costs remain barriers in peri-urban regions. Additionally, the study highlights the importance of personal beliefs and trust in EV technology as critical factors that enhance the likelihood of adoption. The results underscore the need for comprehensive policy frameworks that address both infrastructural and psychological barriers, aiming to enhance the feasibility, overcome challenges, and ensure the sustainability of EV adoption initiatives. This research offers valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders looking to promote EV adoption and contribute to sustainable urban development.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":49209,"journal":{"name":"Energy for Sustainable Development","volume":"85 ","pages":"Article 101664"},"PeriodicalIF":4.4,"publicationDate":"2025-02-07","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143348477","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"工程技术","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Understanding interconnection rule non-compliance: Lessons from South Africa's surge in unauthorised distributed energy resources","authors":"Josh A. Dippenaar,&nbsp;Bernard Bekker","doi":"10.1016/j.esd.2025.101661","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.esd.2025.101661","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The integration of distributed energy resources (DERs) such as rooftop solar and battery storage into electricity grids poses a regulatory challenge for utilities globally. While interconnection rules are designed to ensure the technical integrity and financial sustainability of power systems, stringent policies and punitive pricing signals have inadvertently led to the proliferation of unauthorised DERs in many parts of the world. Unauthorised DERs pose a range of technical, financial and safety risks to the power system, yet the drivers of non-compliance remains undocumented in the literature. This paper explores the drivers of non-compliance in South Africa, where by 2024 &gt;50 % of behind-the-meter solar capacity is illegally connected to the grid. By quantifying the misalignment of private and public DER value streams, this study identifies key barriers to compliance, including high interconnection costs, lengthy approval processes, and misaligned pricing signals. A comparative case study between three South African municipalities illustrates how different utility governance approaches impact the business case for DER investment. A simple but important finding is that utility approaches can significantly impact a customer's decision to follow the formal interconnection process. A revenue impact modelling exercise revealed the detrimental impacts of unauthorised DERs on utility revenue. These results suggest that, in jurisdictions facing unauthorised DERs, early financial incentives are essential to minimise non-compliant installations and the associated utility revenue erosion. As DER penetration expands into new global regions, these findings are expected to assist utilities and regulators in developing appropriate regulatory frameworks that facilitate the sustainable integration of DERs.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":49209,"journal":{"name":"Energy for Sustainable Development","volume":"85 ","pages":"Article 101661"},"PeriodicalIF":4.4,"publicationDate":"2025-02-06","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143237090","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"工程技术","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}