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28 pages, 2471 KB

Open AccessArticle

Mitigating Disruptions in the Distribution Centre for the Australian Household Hydrogen Supply Chain

by Pranto Chakrabarty, Sanjoy Kumar Paul, Andrea Trianni and Suvash C. Saha

Energies 2026, 19(5), 1226; https://doi.org/10.3390/en19051226 - 28 Feb 2026

Viewed by 569

Abstract

Australia is committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, a goal that may require a major transformation of the household energy sector. Hydrogen can, however, be deployed as a complementary energy source to electricity by displacing natural gas. But the potential for hydrogen [...] Read more.

Australia is committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, a goal that may require a major transformation of the household energy sector. Hydrogen can, however, be deployed as a complementary energy source to electricity by displacing natural gas. But the potential for hydrogen to make this transition is dependent on building a credible Australian household hydrogen supply chain (HHSC), which includes national distribution centres (NDCs), regional distribution centres (RDCs) and local distribution centres (LDCs). The HHSC is particularly vulnerable to operational disruptions under rapid adoption pathways and in perfect-competition market conditions, where infrastructure, supply, and pricing decisions are decentralised. Hydrogen flows may be disrupted at the NDCs and RDCs, leading to failure to meet demand and monetary losses across the HHSC. While many studies have assessed vulnerabilities within hydrogen supply chains, there is little attention paid to the consequences of distribution-level failures. This research aims to quantify the impacts associated with distribution centre (DC) disruptions in the HHSC using a multi-period network optimisation model to assess three operational situations: ideal situations, disrupted-DC situations without mitigation strategies, and disrupted-DC situations with suitable mitigation strategies. The results indicate that without mitigation strategies, demand fulfilment could potentially drop to zero, penalty costs could increase drastically, and profitability could decrease due to not meeting demand. In contrast, the implications of suitable mitigation strategies, including rerouting hydrogen through alternate, unaffected NDCs or RDCs, using spare capacity by increasing operating hours, and maintaining safety stock at RDCs, significantly increase HHSC performance. In these situations, demand fulfilment increases to up to 95%, and profitability improves substantially. This study contributes to the hydrogen supply chain literature by demonstrating how HHSCs can be planned and replanned to manage disruptions in DCs. The study also provides practical insights for policymakers and managers for a sustainable HHSC. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Economics, Finance and Policy Towards Sustainable Energy: 2nd Edition)

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25 pages, 609 KB

Open AccessArticle

Green Energy Sources in Energy Efficiency Management and Improving the Comfort of Individual Energy Consumers in Poland

by Ewa Chomać-Pierzecka, Anna Barwińska-Małajowicz, Radosław Pyrek, Szymon Godawa and Edward Urbańczyk

Energies 2026, 19(2), 500; https://doi.org/10.3390/en19020500 - 19 Jan 2026

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Abstract

Green technologies are strongly present in the energy mixes of countries around the world. In addition to the need to reduce the extraction of non-renewable raw materials and the harmful environmental impact associated with energy production, the trend towards renewable energy development should [...] Read more.

Green technologies are strongly present in the energy mixes of countries around the world. In addition to the need to reduce the extraction of non-renewable raw materials and the harmful environmental impact associated with energy production, the trend towards renewable energy development should also be linked to the need to minimize energy poverty stemming from high electricity prices and the need to increase the energy efficiency of existing solutions. These issues formed the basis for the study’s objective, which was to examine the regulatory framework for the development of Poland’s energy system, with particular emphasis on sustainable development. A particularly important aspect of the study was the exploration of the market for green technologies introduced into the energy system in Poland, with a primary focus on solutions dedicated to small, individual consumers (households). The cognitive value of the study and its original character is created by the cognitive aspect in terms of the interests and consumer preferences of households in this area, motivated by economic considerations related to the energy efficiency aspect of RES solutions. In this regard, there is a relatively limited number of current studies conducted for the reference country (Poland), justifying the choice of the research topic and theme. For the purposes of the study, a literature review, as well as legal standards and industry reports, was conducted. A practical study was conducted based on the results of surveys conducted by selected companies involved in the sale and installation of heating solutions. Detailed research was supported by statistical instruments using PQstat software version 1.8.4.164. Key findings confirm significant household interest in green electricity production technologies, which enable improved energy efficiency of home energy installations. Importantly, the potential for lower electricity bills, which can be attributed to low system maintenance costs and the ability to manage consumption, is a factor in choosing renewable energy solutions. Current interest in renewable energy solutions focuses on heat pumps, photovoltaics, and energy storage. Renewable energy users are interested in integrating renewable energy technology solutions into energy production and management to optimize energy consumption costs and increase household energy independence. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Economics, Finance and Policy Towards Sustainable Energy: 2nd Edition)

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40 pages, 3262 KB

Open AccessArticle

Towards Green Transition: Sustainable Energy Future and Its Effects on Companies’ Financial Strategies

by Alexandra-Mădălina Țăran, Grațiela-Georgiana Noja, Alina Ionașcu, Mihaela Diaconu and Oana-Ramona Lobonț

Energies 2026, 19(1), 277; https://doi.org/10.3390/en19010277 - 5 Jan 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 842

Abstract

Socio-economic resilience and sustainable development have become central themes in contemporary public debate, with the transition to sustainable, low-carbon energy systems emerging as a strategic priority. Within this context, our research specifically examines how CSR engagement, renewable energy deployment, and sustainable finance jointly [...] Read more.

Socio-economic resilience and sustainable development have become central themes in contemporary public debate, with the transition to sustainable, low-carbon energy systems emerging as a strategic priority. Within this context, our research specifically examines how CSR engagement, renewable energy deployment, and sustainable finance jointly influence firms’ exposure to climate-related financial risks, addressing a gap in the literature regarding corporate-level resilience. The empirical analysis employs a structured two-fold methodological framework comprising robust regression with Huber and biweight iterations, and quantile-on-quantile (Q–Q) regression. The dataset includes 300 European energy companies for 2024, extracted from the LSEG Data & Analytics platform. Our findings reveal that companies in the European energy sector must accelerate their transition to low-carbon operating models. Specifically, firms with stronger sustainability commitments exhibit reduced exposure to climate-induced financial instability and improved long-term performance indicators. These findings underscore the moderating role of CSR and renewable energy investments in enhancing corporate resilience. Sustainability-oriented firms are better positioned to absorb, mitigate, and adapt to climate-related shocks, supporting both environmental objectives and financial stability. Policy recommendations should focus on balancing ESG objectives with financial performance requirements, ensuring that energy companies receive adequate support for the green transition. Such alignment is essential to strengthen corporate resilience and improve the effectiveness of sustainable energy policies amid escalating climate challenges. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Economics, Finance and Policy Towards Sustainable Energy: 2nd Edition)

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30 pages, 1305 KB

Open AccessArticle

Industrial Energy Efficiency Versus Energy Poverty in the European Union: Macroeconomic and Social Relationships

by Bożena Gajdzik, Rafał Nagaj, Brigita Žuromskaitė-Nagaj and Radosław Wolniak

Energies 2026, 19(1), 267; https://doi.org/10.3390/en19010267 - 4 Jan 2026

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 742

Abstract

This paper examines the impact of industrial energy efficiency on household energy poverty in the twenty-seven Member States of the European Union for the period 2003–2023. Although the literature has widely discussed energy efficiency as an enabler of decarbonisation and economic performance, its [...] Read more.

This paper examines the impact of industrial energy efficiency on household energy poverty in the twenty-seven Member States of the European Union for the period 2003–2023. Although the literature has widely discussed energy efficiency as an enabler of decarbonisation and economic performance, its direct link to energy poverty at the macro level has rarely been analysed, let alone with respect to structural changes in industry. Filling this gap, this paper evaluates whether reductions in industrial energy intensity result in reduced energy poverty, understood as the share of households unable to maintain adequate indoor thermal comfort. Empirical analysis relies on a balanced panel dataset and uses fixed-effects regression models to take into account unobserved country-specific and time-specific heterogeneity. In addition, potential endogeneity between industrial energy intensity and labour productivity is addressed by the instrumental variable approach using two-stage least squares. The main models also include key macroeconomic and social control variables: real GDP per capita, social benefit expenditure, electricity prices for households, and unit labour costs. The results yield a robust and statistically significant positive link between industrial energy intensity and energy poverty, suggesting that efficiency improvements in industry make a quantifiable difference in household energy deprivation. This effect even increases in strength after the correction for endogeneity, thereby corroborating the causal relevance of productivity-driven efficiency gains. The findings also show substantial heterogeneity between EU Member States, indicating that national structural features will determine baseline levels of energy poverty. However, no strong evidence is found for an indirect price-mediated transmission mechanism or for moderation effects bound to income levels or social expenditure. This study provides sound empirical evidence that industrial energy efficiency is an important but structurally conditioned lever to alleviate energy poverty in the European Union. The results emphasise the integration of industrial efficiency policies with social and institutional frameworks while designing strategies for a just and inclusive energy transition. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Economics, Finance and Policy Towards Sustainable Energy: 2nd Edition)

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25 pages, 747 KB

Open AccessArticle

Challenges of Market Maturity in Small-Scale Power Markets: The Cyprus Case

by Andreas Poullikkas

Energies 2026, 19(1), 259; https://doi.org/10.3390/en19010259 - 4 Jan 2026

Viewed by 911

Abstract

Cyprus launched its Competitive Electricity Market on 1 October 2025, marking a historic transition from monopolistic to liberalized electricity trading. This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of the market’s first month of operation, evaluating technical performance, price dynamics, market structure, and identifying critical [...] Read more.

Cyprus launched its Competitive Electricity Market on 1 October 2025, marking a historic transition from monopolistic to liberalized electricity trading. This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of the market’s first month of operation, evaluating technical performance, price dynamics, market structure, and identifying critical barriers to achieving competitive benefits. Analysis reveals technically successful operation of clearing mechanisms and settlement processes, but economically constrained performance driven by persistent structural limitations. The market exhibits extreme price volatility characteristic of isolated systems, ranging from zero to 500 EUR/MWh, with pronounced diurnal patterns reflecting solar generation dynamics. The monthly wholesale price averaged at 167.78 EUR/MWh. The market remains highly concentrated with only 17 participants, shallow liquidity, and heavy reliance on conventional generation (86%) despite installed renewable capacity exceeding 1000 MW. Critical infrastructure deficits including absent natural gas infrastructure, lack of utility-scale storage, electrical isolation, and incomplete smart metering deployment represent fundamental barriers to achieving EU Target Model objectives. Based on infrastructure deployment scenarios and international benchmarking, we suggest potential reductions in the wholesale price of 12.5% (base scenario) to 15% (optimistic scenario) by the end of 2027, dependent on timely natural gas commissioning, storage deployment, and regulatory reform. Policy recommendations address immediate regulatory actions, medium-term market development priorities, and critical infrastructure investments essential for transitioning from technically operational to economically beneficial market operation. This analysis contributes to understanding the challenges that small, isolated electricity markets face when implementing EU liberalization frameworks while highlighting policy interventions required for successful market maturation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Economics, Finance and Policy Towards Sustainable Energy: 2nd Edition)

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21 pages, 1304 KB

Open AccessArticle

Can Financial Supply-Side Structural Reform Drive the Low-Carbon Transition of Industrial Energy?

by Zicheng Wang, Yilin Ni and Tianchu Feng

Energies 2026, 19(1), 4; https://doi.org/10.3390/en19010004 - 19 Dec 2025

Viewed by 382

Abstract

Financial supply side structural reform (FSSR) serves as a key for advancing the low-carbon transformation of industrial energy (LTIE) and supporting the dual carbon strategic goals. By using provincial panel data from China for the period of 2008–2022 and leveraging the national financial [...] Read more.

Financial supply side structural reform (FSSR) serves as a key for advancing the low-carbon transformation of industrial energy (LTIE) and supporting the dual carbon strategic goals. By using provincial panel data from China for the period of 2008–2022 and leveraging the national financial comprehensive reform pilot zones as a quasi-natural experiment, this study uses the difference-in-differences method to examine empirically the effect of FSSR on the LTIE and the underlying mechanisms. Research findings indicate that, first, FSSR can significantly advance the LTIE, which remained unchanged after other policies, omitted variables, and other potential influencing factors were controlled. Second, the mechanism tests indicate that FSSR can drive the LTIE by increasing green financial support, fostering green industrial development, and promoting green technological innovation. Third, the heterogeneity tests reveal that the benchmark effect is pronounced in regions with weak environmental regulation and a low level of financial development. This study provides theoretical and empirical evidence to understand the crucial role of FSSR in advancing the LTIE and insights for relevant policy formulation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Economics, Finance and Policy Towards Sustainable Energy: 2nd Edition)

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34 pages, 418 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Role of Climate-Oriented Funding in Advancing Renewable Energy Transition Across the EU

by Gheorghița Dincă, Ioana-Cătălina Netcu and Camelia Ungureanu

Energies 2025, 18(24), 6616; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18246616 - 18 Dec 2025

Viewed by 543

Abstract

The shift to renewable energy is a key goal for the European Union as it aims for climate neutrality; however, the effectiveness of climate-focused funding instruments varies significantly across member states. This research investigates the influences of mitigation investments, R&D spending, environmental tax [...] Read more.

The shift to renewable energy is a key goal for the European Union as it aims for climate neutrality; however, the effectiveness of climate-focused funding instruments varies significantly across member states. This research investigates the influences of mitigation investments, R&D spending, environmental tax revenues, subsidies, GDP growth, and capital formation on renewable energy expansion within the EU-27, placing particular emphasis on the structural differences between Old Member States (OMS) and New Member States (NMS). The study utilizes robust long-run estimation techniques alongside causality analysis over a span of 13 years, from 2010–2023. The findings highlight notable distinctions among the EU-27, OMS, and NMS regions. While the EU-27 and OMS show that funds designated for climate mitigation and R&D are critical drivers of the clean energy transition, in the NMS, environmental taxes, subsidies, innovation, and gross fixed capital formation play vital roles in advancing this transition. Furthermore, economic development shows mixed results in achieving sustainable objectives, underscoring the necessity for climate-oriented funding and initiatives. Therefore, policy measures should focus on mitigation finance and innovation across the EU, while the design of subsidies and environmental tax structures must be tailored to each region to ensure a fair and expedited transition. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Economics, Finance and Policy Towards Sustainable Energy: 2nd Edition)

19 pages, 556 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Green Bonds and Energy Use on Carbon Dioxide Emissions: Evidence from 17 Financially Developed Countries (2014–2023)

by Bartosz Jóźwik, Ayşegül Toy, Murat Tekbas, Mesut Dogan and Filip Krauze

Energies 2025, 18(23), 6316; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18236316 - 30 Nov 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1293

Abstract

This study investigates how green bond issuance, energy use, renewable energy, and economic growth relate to per capita CO₂ emissions in 17 financially developed countries that are active in green bond markets over the period 2014–2023. We construct an annual panel for [...] Read more.

This study investigates how green bond issuance, energy use, renewable energy, and economic growth relate to per capita CO₂ emissions in 17 financially developed countries that are active in green bond markets over the period 2014–2023. We construct an annual panel for Australia, Austria, Canada, Mainland China, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, New Zealand, Norway, Spain, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and the United States, and apply panel-corrected standard errors (PCSEs) together with Method of Moments Quantile Regression (MMQR). Diagnostic tests based on Pesaran’s CIPS unit root and Westerlund’s cointegration procedures indicate that the variables are I(1) and cointegrated, while Pesaran-type dependence and slope heterogeneity tests justify the use of robust panel methods. The PCSE results show that total energy consumption is the strongest factor associated with higher emissions, renewable energy consumption is consistently associated with lower emissions, economic growth is positively linked to emissions, and green bond issuance is associated with lower emissions, although the magnitude of this relationship is modest. MMQR estimates reveal that these relationships are heterogeneous across the CO₂ distribution. Green bonds are associated with lower emissions only in low-emission country–years, while this association becomes statistically weak at higher quantiles. Renewable energy is linked to lower emissions across all quantiles, with stronger associations in the lower part of the distribution, and the growth–emissions relationship weakens at the top, consistent with an Environmental Kuznets Curve pattern. These findings suggest that expanding renewables and improving the carbon content of energy use remain central for decarbonization, while green bonds may support emission reductions, particularly in cleaner, institutionally advanced economies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Economics, Finance and Policy Towards Sustainable Energy: 2nd Edition)

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28 pages, 1747 KB

Open AccessArticle

Paying the Price to Power the Future: Environmental Taxation, Energy Transition, and Europe’s Green Deal

by Oana Ramona Lobonț, Mariana Alexandra Bărbulescu, Cristina Criste, Tao Ran and Nicoleta Claudia Moldovan

Energies 2025, 18(22), 5902; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18225902 - 10 Nov 2025

Viewed by 1176

Abstract

In recent years, the European Union has played a key role in global efforts to combat climate change and the energy transition, focusing on creating fiscal, legal and regulatory policies and instruments capable of supporting the decarbonization process and ensuring a sustainable energy [...] Read more.

In recent years, the European Union has played a key role in global efforts to combat climate change and the energy transition, focusing on creating fiscal, legal and regulatory policies and instruments capable of supporting the decarbonization process and ensuring a sustainable energy future. Environmental taxation has been considered not only as an essential tool to discourage pollution but also to stimulate cleaner energy production, the integration of renewable sources and energy efficiency. Our research analyses the impact of environmental tax revenues on CO₂ across 27 EU member states from 2012 to 2023. A mixed-method research approach is used, combining policy and strategy analysis, bibliometric mapping and econometric data analysis using OLS, as well as fixed and random effects models that are selected based on the Hausman test. The methodological mix approach provides empirical evidence on how fiscal instruments can simultaneously support environmental sustainability and energy resilience. The results show that environmental taxes are associated with greenhouse gas emission reductions and an increase in the share of renewable energy, especially when integrated into a coherent national policy framework. The policy analysis highlights the role of the Climate Action Budgetary Mechanism (CABM) and the Effort Sharing Regulation (ESR), underlining their importance for the European Union’s energy strategy. The bibliometric results indicate the existence of thematic clusters focused on carbon pricing, renewable energies and international comparisons, particularly with China. Finally, this study suggests that the maximum efficiency of environmental taxes is achieved when the revenues generated are reinvested in green infrastructure, innovation and sustainable jobs. Furthermore, policies should be adapted to the specificities of each Member State to ensure a fair and sustainable energy transition at the EU level. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Economics, Finance and Policy Towards Sustainable Energy: 2nd Edition)

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19 pages, 694 KB

Open AccessArticle

Financial Mechanisms and Risk-Based Modeling of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Adoption in Households

by Olha Prokopenko, Galyna Trypolska, Iryna Bashynska, Oleksandr Telizhenko, Włodzimierz Strelcow, Yevhen Kovalenko, Svitlana Lytvynenko and Anna Woźna

Energies 2025, 18(21), 5799; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18215799 - 3 Nov 2025

Viewed by 812

Abstract

The research aims to evaluate financial instruments on household uptake of energy efficiency and renewable energy towards different risk scenarios. The study addresses the problem of behavioral response to financial incentives when technological, financial, or institutional risks are perceived as continuous. Two sophisticated [...] Read more.

The research aims to evaluate financial instruments on household uptake of energy efficiency and renewable energy towards different risk scenarios. The study addresses the problem of behavioral response to financial incentives when technological, financial, or institutional risks are perceived as continuous. Two sophisticated models were used for the analysis to quantify the effect of subsidies, green loans, personal income, energy costs, and governmental support for energy efficiency and renewable energy uptake. The research data came from the UK, Estonia, Germany, Poland, and Ukraine between 2022 and 2024. The results suggest that countries experiencing drops in risk indices with strong institutional support, such as Germany and the UK, had maximum improvement in energy efficiency (as high as 598.72 kWh saved a year) and renewable energy implementation rates (above 30%). Countries posing high risk, like Ukraine, require more potent and custom-made strategies to achieve comparable advances compared to a less-risky environment. The evidence indicates that even financial mechanisms are most fruitful if they are complemented by risk management tactics. With these results, policymakers can proceed with useful information in formulating economically appropriate strategies that rely on realistic assumptions of behavior. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Economics, Finance and Policy Towards Sustainable Energy: 2nd Edition)

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31 pages, 632 KB

Open AccessArticle

Renewable Energy Transitions in the EU: A Comparative Panel Data Perspective

by Gheorghița Dincă, Ioana-Cătălina Netcu and Camelia Ungureanu

Energies 2025, 18(18), 4836; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18184836 - 11 Sep 2025

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2644

Abstract

Considering the contemporary, rapidly evolving society, renewable energy emerges as a key element in advancing both environmental resilience and energy independence. The current study aims to undertake a comparative analysis of the renewable energy adoption between the Old Member States (OMSs) and New [...] Read more.

Considering the contemporary, rapidly evolving society, renewable energy emerges as a key element in advancing both environmental resilience and energy independence. The current study aims to undertake a comparative analysis of the renewable energy adoption between the Old Member States (OMSs) and New Member States (NMSs) of the European Union (EU). This study focuses on regional heterogeneity as well as the role of economic, social, and environmental determinants in shaping effective energy transition policies. This study uses advanced long-term panel estimates such as Dynamic Ordinary Least Squares (DOLS), Fully Modified Least Squares (FMOLS) and Canonical Cointegration Regression (CCR) on a dataset covering the 2010–2023 period. Moreover, this study utilizes quantile regression methods such as Quantile Regression (QREG) and Method of Moments Quantile Regression (MMQR). Finally, this study employs the Dumitrescu–Hurlin test to assess panel causality. The empirical findings reveal notable discrepancies between the two samples when it comes to fossil fuel reliance, income inequality, financial and economic development, the existing level of greenhouse gas emissions, and green finances influencing renewable energy adoption. In the OMS region, a 1% increase in GHG and income inequality reduces the adoption of renewable energy by 0.80–1.14% and 0.61–0.67%, respectively, while a 1% increase in GDP increases the adoption of renewable energy by 0.72–0.92%. In the NMS region, GHG inhibits renewable energy transition by 0.27–0.30%, while fossil fuel energy share, income inequality, green finance, GDP and financial development do not have a significant effect. These results highlight economic development as the key to renewable energy transition in OMSs, while in NMSs, GHG and financial development are key levers. This research seeks to support the developing and restructuring of the existing green framework to enhance its overall effectiveness. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Economics, Finance and Policy Towards Sustainable Energy: 2nd Edition)

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22 pages, 1473 KB

Open AccessArticle

Optimized Operation Strategy for Multi-Regional Integrated Energy Systems Based on a Bilevel Stackelberg Game Framework

by Fei Zhao, Lei Du and Shumei Chu

Energies 2025, 18(17), 4746; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18174746 - 5 Sep 2025

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1633

Abstract

To enhance spatial resource complementarity and cross-entity coordination among multi-regional integrated energy systems (MRIESs), an optimized operation strategy is developed based on a bilevel Stackelberg game framework. In this framework, the integrated energy system operator (IESO) and MRIES act as the leader and [...] Read more.

To enhance spatial resource complementarity and cross-entity coordination among multi-regional integrated energy systems (MRIESs), an optimized operation strategy is developed based on a bilevel Stackelberg game framework. In this framework, the integrated energy system operator (IESO) and MRIES act as the leader and followers, respectively. Guided by an integrated demand response (IDR) mechanism and a collaborative green certificate and carbon emission trading (GC–CET) scheme, energy prices and consumption strategies are optimized through iterative game interactions. Inter-regional electricity transaction prices and volumes are modeled as coupling variables. The solution is obtained using a hybrid algorithm combining particle swarm optimization (PSO) with mixed-integer programming (MIP). Simulation results indicate that the proposed strategy effectively enhances energy complementarity and optimizes consumption structures across regions. It also balances the interests of the IESO and MRIES, reducing operating costs by 9.97%, 27.7%, and 4.87% in the respective regions. Moreover, in the case study, renewable energy utilization rates in different regions—including an urban residential zone, a renewable-rich suburban area, and an industrial zone—are improved significantly, with Region 2 increasing from 95.06% and Region 3 from 77.47% to full consumption (100%), contributing to notable reductions in carbon emissions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Economics, Finance and Policy Towards Sustainable Energy: 2nd Edition)

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Review

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20 pages, 2015 KB

Open AccessReview

Measuring Circular Economy Indicator in Hydropower Refurbishment

by Andreea Loredana Rhazzali (Birgovan), Elena Simina Lakatos, Gabriel Minea, Lucian-Ionel Cioca, Madalina Barnisca, Sara Ferenci, Lorand Szabo and Radu Adrian Munteanu

Energies 2025, 18(22), 5922; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18225922 - 11 Nov 2025

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 896

Abstract

This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the development, implementation, and evolution of the circular economy indicator (CEI) in the context of hydroelectric turbine refurbishment over the past five decades. By systematically examining publications indexed in the Web of Science database between 1975 [...] Read more.

This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the development, implementation, and evolution of the circular economy indicator (CEI) in the context of hydroelectric turbine refurbishment over the past five decades. By systematically examining publications indexed in the Web of Science database between 1975 and 2025, the study traces the conceptual origins of the CEI, highlights methodological advances, and analyzes practical applications. The analysis focuses on key aspects such as material circularity, energy efficiency, including the share of renewable sources, and the extension of operational lifetime achieved through refurbishment. The paper also identifies persistent methodological gaps, in particular regarding the integration of social and governance dimensions, as well as the lack of standardization across projects, proposing strategies to increase the reliability and applicability of the indicator. The results provide guidance for integrating circular economy principles into hydroelectric refurbishment processes, outline good practices, and set priorities for future research oriented towards more holistic and multidimensional assessments of circularity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Economics, Finance and Policy Towards Sustainable Energy: 2nd Edition)

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Other

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18 pages, 1411 KB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Green Research Perspectives in the Visegrád Group: A Systematic Review and Research Agenda for the Energy Sector

by Łukasz Jarosław Kozar, Adam Sulich and Lumír Kulhánek

Energies 2025, 18(23), 6142; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18236142 - 24 Nov 2025

Viewed by 542

Abstract

This article presents the findings of a literature review and an empirical bibliometric analysis aimed at identifying green research perspectives within the energy sector of the Visegrád Group countries (Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, and Slovakia). These perspectives reflect key scientific directions related to [...] Read more.

This article presents the findings of a literature review and an empirical bibliometric analysis aimed at identifying green research perspectives within the energy sector of the Visegrád Group countries (Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, and Slovakia). These perspectives reflect key scientific directions related to Sustainable Development (SD), environmental protection, and social responsibility. In this context, the theoretical principles of SD are translated into practical strategies, innovations, and solutions that support long-term economic growth while respecting ecological limits and social needs. Such themes frequently appear as dominant keywords in academic publications, underscoring their growing importance in energy research. The study pursued two main and complementary research objectives. The first was to identify green research perspectives prevalent within the energy sector of the Visegrád region. The second was to determine whether, and how, existing scientific publications address the topic of green jobs in this specific regional and sectoral context. The analysis led to the classification of five thematic categories: (1) green economy and finance, (2) green policies and strategies, (3) green energy and its sources, (4) green technology, and (5) green transport. These areas, when examined collectively, reveal important synergies that could support the creation of green jobs. Among the publications analyzed, green energy emerged as the most frequently addressed topic. However, the study found a lack of direct focus on green jobs, indicating that this subject—arising from the intersection of several research areas—represents a promising direction for future studies. In addition to these five categories, the study also identified several emerging green research directions within the Visegrád energy sector. These include: the development of green hydrogen technologies, the greening of the gas sector, the integration of prosumers into energy systems, the societal and political acceptance of nuclear energy, the role of green public transport in accelerating the energy transition, and the formulation of just transition policies. These themes highlight both technological opportunities and socio-political challenges that must be addressed to ensure a comprehensive and inclusive green transformation in the region. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Economics, Finance and Policy Towards Sustainable Energy: 2nd Edition)

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24 pages, 1794 KB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Emission Reductions in the Aviation Sector: A Systematic Review of the Sustainability Impacts of Modal Shifts

by Ryo Kawaguchi and Andrew Chapman

Energies 2025, 18(22), 5974; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18225974 - 13 Nov 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1230

Abstract

In the aviation industry, momentum for reducing emissions has rapidly increased in recent years. From international systems like the EU ETS and CORSIA, to the introduction of new fuels such as electricity and SAF as alternatives to conventional fuels, various approaches are being [...] Read more.

In the aviation industry, momentum for reducing emissions has rapidly increased in recent years. From international systems like the EU ETS and CORSIA, to the introduction of new fuels such as electricity and SAF as alternatives to conventional fuels, various approaches are being considered. Within this context, there is a further movement to reduce aviation emissions through a modal shift from air to high-speed rail. In this research, a Systematic Literature Review is undertaken to detail the nature of the modal shift from air to rail, uncovering energy policy and economic considerations. While research targeting China has increased recently, prior studies focus on Europe, leaving some regions understudied. From an emissions reduction perspective, the power source supplying rail is a critical factor. Capacity constraints on rail are also a key challenge to be addressed. Future research should address the need for additional regional studies. In the age of modal shift movements, the aviation industry is attempting to reduce emissions through the introduction of alternative low-carbon fuels. Policies to reduce emissions must consider this. Discontinuing flights could lead to unintended emissions. A synergistic approach combining modal shift and internal decarbonization is likely to be the most economically feasible and sustainable approach. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Economics, Finance and Policy Towards Sustainable Energy: 2nd Edition)

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