Studies in Renewable Energy Production and Distribution

Dear Colleagues,

The transition towards decarbonized energy systems is fundamentally reshaping the energy sector, emphasizing the pivotal role of renewable energy-based production systems. This shift away from centralized, fossil-fuel-dependent grids is paving the way toward a carbon-free and sustainable future. Within this evolving landscape, the emergence of prosumers—consumers who also produce energy—illustrates a transformative shift towards more localized and decentralized energy distribution networks. Prosumers not only meet their own energy needs but also have the potential to contribute excess energy back into the grid, thereby supporting the development of resilient and flexible energy infrastructure.

The successful integration of these renewable energy systems into existing power grids, however, presents complex challenges. It necessitates the development of robust methodologies, innovative models, and strategic policies tailored to guide local distribution companies (LDCs) in crafting effective energy action plans. A critical aspect of this integration is understanding how the autonomous decisions made by prosumers impact traditional power distribution systems. Moreover, it is essential to thoroughly assess the socioeconomic and environmental implications of deploying renewable energy technologies. Such assessments are vital for ensuring the long-term viability and sustainability of these systems, thereby supporting inclusive economic growth, environmental sustainability, and advancements in global energy security.

For this Special Issue, we invite the submission of original research articles, reviews, and case studies that explore innovative approaches, technological advancements, and strategic insights into renewable energy production and distribution. Emphasizing the transition towards decarbonized and sustainable energy systems, this volume seeks to address the multifaceted challenges and opportunities presented by the integration of renewable sources into existing and future power grids. Topics of interest for this Special Issue include (but are not limited to) the following:

Suggested Topics:

1. Advanced Renewable Energy Technologies
   • Cutting-edge technologies for renewable energy production including photovoltaic systems, wind turbines, concentrated solar power, and bioenergy solutions.
   • Emerging technologies and innovations in hydroelectric and geothermal energy extraction.

2. Smart Grids and Grid Optimization
   • Strategies for grid optimization, smart grid technologies, and demand-side management to enhance power distribution networks' stability and resilience.
   • Integration of renewable energy into smart grids using artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data analytics to optimize grid management.

3. Energy Storage and System Flexibility
   • Advanced battery technologies and energy storage solutions to support variable renewable energy.
   • Developing methods to improve flexibility and resilience in distribution systems with high renewable energy penetration levels.
   • Utilizing hydrogen and other alternative storage technologies to enhance grid stability.

4. Policy, Economic Impacts, and Social Equity
   • Analysis of effective policy measures like feed-in tariffs, renewable portfolio standards, and carbon pricing mechanisms.
   • Assessing employment opportunities, economic growth potential, and social equity dimensions in the renewable energy sector, highlighting its role in fostering inclusive and sustainable development.
   • International policies and cooperation for global renewable energy development.

5. Environmental and Sustainability Assessments
   • Life cycle assessments and environmental impacts of renewable energy technologies.
   • Sustainability practices in renewable energy projects and their broader implications for biodiversity and ecosystems.

6. Prosumers and Decentralized Systems
   • The role of prosumers in renewable energy markets and their impact on traditional power systems.
   • Strategies for fostering decentralized energy networks that support local, consumer-driven energy production.

7. Emerging Trends and Future Perspectives
   • The role of blockchain and other digital innovations in renewable energy systems.
   • Future trends and predictions for renewable energy technologies and market growth.

8. Distribution Systems
   • Developing methods for improving the flexibility and resilience of modern distribution systems with high penetration levels of renewable energy.
   • Utilizing data-driven and artificial intelligence methods to enhance flexibility and resilience in modern distribution systems.
   • Innovations in the physical distribution networks including microgrids, virtual power plants, and the role of blockchain in distribution.
   • Challenges and solutions in scaling up renewable energy distribution in urban and rural settings.
   • Impacts of distributed generation on traditional distribution network operators and energy markets.

9. Regulatory and Infrastructure Challenges
   • Examination of the regulatory frameworks and infrastructure needed to support the expanded deployment of renewable energy distribution.
   • Strategies for overcoming logistical and regulatory barriers to renewable energy adoption at various scales.

10. Case Studies and Regional Reports
    • Successful global case studies on renewable energy projects.
    • Regional challenges, solutions, and comparative studies on renewable energy adoption in diverse environments.

Dr. Ahmed Chiheb Ammari
Dr. Ahmed S. A. Awad
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Energies is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

• advanced renewable energy technologies
• smart grids and grid optimization
• energy storage and system flexibility