Articles tagged with Energy Policy
The conflict in Iran is driving people away from fossil fuels, with the world less economically reliant on them. Effective solutions include deep investments in clean energy, public transportation, and urban planning, as well as emergency measures like cash transfers and targeted assistance for low-income households.
USC is leading a national research team developing AI to predict turbulence, a challenge in physics and engineering that affects technologies daily. The approach could make scientific simulations faster and more accurate, enabling researchers to tackle complex problems.
MIT researchers developed framework to make climate-informed energy siting choices, showing how location affects energy system resilience and reducing blackouts. Climate-informed energy siting reduces energy shortfalls by up to fivefold in regions like New England and Texas.
A new study suggests that data centers can lower average energy costs by providing grid flexibility during high-cost periods. The researchers found cost savings of up to 5% in Texas, 4% in the Mid-Atlantic region, and 2% in western U.S. states by shifting more than 20% of their consumption to non-peak hours.
The EU's plans for domestic production of fossil-free aviation fuels risk steering development towards more expensive and energy-intensive pathways. A study from Chalmers University of Technology found that the current regulatory framework favours combustion-based alternatives over gasification, leading to increased costs and energy use.
The University of Utah and National Laboratory of the Rockies have signed a three-year MOU to strengthen the US energy system. The partnership enables research on urgent national security and energy priorities, including water security, critical minerals, and advanced manufacturing.
An international team of researchers found that coordinated land-use planning can reduce species impact by 15% and carbon loss by 19%. Strategic planning can enable progress toward global biodiversity, climate, and sustainable development goals simultaneously.
The University of Utah has launched a new Institute for Critical and Strategic Minerals (ICSM) to address the US's growing reliance on foreign critical minerals. The institute aims to expand sustainable, domestic sources and production of critical minerals through education, workforce development, and cutting-edge research.
Demographic changes are linked to increased household energy requirements, CO2 emissions, and financial burdens in Japan and the UK. Older single-person households have higher energy use and costs due to greater heating and cooling needs.
A collaborative team of researchers from Kyoto University analyzed the net-zero transition in Southeast Asia, finding that a flexible grid paradigm allows vertically integrated utilities to accept natural gas as flexible energy. The study also highlights the need for synchronized changes in energy systems and financial systems to achie...
A new study by Nirma University reveals that policy synchronization is key to reducing pollution costs in Mediterranean nations. The research found that when a country's environmental taxes, green protection spending, and renewable energy adoption move in perfect synchronization, the overarching cost of pollution drops significantly.
A new framework, 'just-shoring,' aims to shift focus from competition and security to the rights and interests of local communities whose lands are most at risk. The approach prioritizes accountability and transparency, giving communities a legal right to co-govern throughout the mineral lifecycle.
Researchers identify vulnerabilities in three major sectors: physical, financial, and managerial 'cliffs' that could trigger localized energy crises and price shocks. Policymakers are urged to adopt managed decline strategies to avoid disruption of services and stabilize the mid-transition period to zero carbon energy.
A new study proposes a two-stage decision-making framework for lithium governance in Latin America, highlighting the role of external pressures, internal politics, and industry development. The research suggests that engagement strategies must consider these factors to succeed in the region.
Critical raw materials are projected to grow from 1 million tonnes in 2022 to between 1.2 and 1.9 million tonnes by 2050. Europe can recover more of these essential materials by improving collection, design, and recycling of waste electrical and electronic equipment.
The study highlights how wind farms have transformed rural landscapes, disrupting local agricultural markets and eroding rural identities. The research calls for a more participatory and place-based energy transition that respects local heritage and democratic governance.
A Stanford University study reveals a roadmap for California to achieve net-zero emissions by 2045, requiring significant advancements in renewable energy generation, energy storage, and low-carbon transportation. The model forecasts the need for 170 gigawatts of new generation and 54 gigawatts of storage by 2045.
Researchers predict EU will need to meet 250 TWh annually for local battery cell production by 2050, offsetting 90 TWh of upstream fossil fuel energy. Maximizing recycling rates could reduce import dependency and future energy demand.
The researchers developed a five-level pyramid model to assess energy supply security, taking into account dynamic effects and higher resolution. Switzerland can increase its energy security by diversifying its energy sources and increasing domestic production, with additional storage facilities also contributing.
A new handbook from the University of Vaasa provides a comprehensive toolkit for policymakers, energy companies, and cybersecurity professionals to improve cyber resilience. The handbook emphasizes socio-cyber-physical risk management, education, awareness, cooperation, and strategic investments to reduce threats in the energy sector.
A new report by UCL academics finds that opening new North Sea oil and gas fields is incompatible with achieving the Paris Climate Agreement goals. The researchers recommend stopping all future licenses to explore and refusing development consent for already-licensed fields.
Global CO2 emissions from industry can be reduced by up to 5% through improved energy management and social constructions of energy efficiency. The key findings highlight the importance of system-wide processes, increased knowledge dissemination, and corporate culture changes in achieving this goal.
A new study models how Western US states can build out clean energy infrastructure between now and 2050 under different climate policy scenarios and levels of power sector coordination. States that coordinate more closely could save billions in energy system costs, even if their climate policies do not align.
A recent study by International Studies of Economics found that climate policy uncertainty causes stocks to plummet globally, as investors fear damage to economic activity and carbon costs. The study also revealed that rising oil prices have a negative impact on stock returns, except in the Gulf Cooperation Council region and Kuwait.
Biomass is crucial for Europe's ability to reach its climate targets, providing both energy and negative emissions. Excluding biomass from the European energy system would increase costs by 169 billion Euros per year.
Researchers from Politecnico di Milano developed a study analyzing agrivoltaics' potential to reduce global conflict over land use. The coexistence of photovoltaic panels and agricultural crops can help solve the pressure on arable land due to growing energy demand and food production needs.
A recent FAU survey found that most Floridians are concerned about rising insurance premiums due to climate change, with nearly two-thirds worried about affordability. The survey also reveals strong support for addressing climate change, expanding renewable energy, and teaching climate science in schools.
New study suggests marine shipping emissions will decrease by 30-40% by 2030 compared to 2008 levels, but may not meet net-zero goal for 2050. The International Maritime Organization has approved new emission reduction policies.
Researchers at University of Sheffield find socioeconomic inequalities persist in low-carbon technology adoption, particularly among disadvantaged groups. The report advocates for targeted interventions and community-level support to level the playing field.
A Stanford study finds that a pivot to clean energy technologies by 2060 would improve energy security and reduce trade risks for most nations. The study analyzed potential new vulnerabilities under decarbonization relative to those associated with continued reliance on fossil fuels.
The California Solar Canal Initiative brings together seven leading research universities to identify optimal locations for generating renewable energy and conserving land statewide. By covering large sections of the state's canal network with solar panels, researchers aim to conserve water, reduce air pollution and generate clean energy.
A new study published in Climate Policy highlights the significant cost disparity between household electricity and e-fuel for long-distance mobility. The research shows that the wealthiest 1% of EU citizens are responsible for 66% of air travel, while the majority emit less than 0.1 ton of CO2 equivalent emissions per year.
A new computational model from UC San Diego reveals that drivers charge their vehicles more frequently than assumed, with a tendency to top off at 60% battery. This leads to the estimate that using individual drivers' behavior could triple the size of workplace charging networks, impacting cost and design.
A new study by IIASA scientists suggests that a mix of policy measures and behavioral changes can significantly reduce GHG emissions from energy use in buildings and transport. The strategies could reduce CO2 emissions from buildings by 51-85% and transport by 37-91% compared to current policies.
A recent study published in Nature Communications reveals polarized global landscape and 'orphaned' SDG indicators affecting nations' trajectories toward sustainable development. The research provides insights into the progress and disparities of countries toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, highlighting areas where act...
A new study from the University of Cambridge suggests that hitting Europe's 2030 renewable energy targets could reduce electricity price volatility by an average of 20% across 29 European countries. This would lead to significant reductions in price spikes, with the UK and Ireland expected to benefit the most.
Lithuania is undergoing a significant energy transformation to reduce its reliance on imported fuels and increase the share of renewable energy in its mix. The country has made notable progress in increasing its renewable energy share, with 70% of electricity coming from renewable sources in 2023.
China has achieved significant progress in reducing PM2.5 concentrations by 35.6% since 2015, while also increasing non-fossil energy consumption to 17.5%. However, rising ozone levels and extreme weather events pose new challenges, emphasizing the need for adaptive measures and stricter air quality standards.
A study by MIT researchers shows that households in Amsterdam reduced their energy consumption and costs by half after receiving better information and coaching. The experiment found that smart devices can help people change their habits, but only if accompanied by a close understanding of what drives behavior changes.
A new study highlights the need for safeguards on clean energy tax credits due to potential blending of 'gray' hydrogen with biomethane or waste methane. The US Treasury Department's final regulations prohibit such blending, setting important technical safeguards.
A recent study from Peking University found that modern clean energy sources may exacerbate existing inequalities, particularly for low-income households. The researchers recommend policy solutions like phased clean energy transitions and targeted energy subsidies to ensure a more equitable transition.
A new study by University of California, Davis, found that the current estimate of the social cost of carbon is too low, increasing to over $280 per ton of CO2 emitted. This higher estimate reflects the impact of climate change on human welfare, including economic growth and unique natural systems.
A combination of policies is necessary to encourage widespread adoption of environmentally friendly technologies like solar panels and heat pumps. Removing barriers for renters, such as subsidies and investment requirements, can make these technologies more accessible and affordable.
A new report from Simon Fraser University recommends building mass utility-scale solar mega-projects to diversify Canada's energy mix and reduce reliance on hydroelectric power. The study suggests that prioritizing rapid deployment of utility-scale projects in optimal sunlight locations can have a transformative effect on the electrici...
A study by the Complexity Science Hub shows that coordinated responses, including gas storage and alternative supply routes, can reduce potential economic impact. Austria's well-filled storage facilities and alternative supply routes have helped compensate for Gazprom's current gas supply freeze.
The university's refurbishment project uses waste heat to provide heating to the Joseph Priestly Building and district heating system, reducing fossil fuel consumption and carbon emissions. The initiative is expected to yield substantial energy cost savings and enhance the data center's capacity for high-performance computing.
A study by University of Copenhagen researchers highlights the challenges in investing in green hydrogen projects, citing market risks, regulatory uncertainty, and high costs. Oil and gas companies are better positioned to finance large-scale hydrogen projects due to their expertise and infrastructure.
A $13 million initiative led by PNNL has created an AI-ready searchable database of 28,212 documents, reducing the time to conduct environmental reviews from 2-4 years to minutes. The PolicyAI toolkit is currently beta testing with federal NEPA reviewers, aiming to deliver time and cost savings.
A study of Lima's transit policies reveals that bus reform led to overcrowding, higher fares, and increased car ownership, undermining the city's environmental goals. Rail rapid transit, however, has proven effective in reducing CO2 emissions and alleviating congestion.
A study by Cornell University researchers recommends that the costs of new power lines be borne by those who benefit from them, resolving disagreements over cost allocation. The 'beneficiary pays' approach encourages investment in the grid without disputes over cost-sharing.
A recent study by Sharon Baute found that 95% of German respondents agree climate change is partly man-made, but public approval heavily depends on policy design features. Social components, such as investing in human capital or providing subsidies for low-income households, can significantly increase support for EU climate policy.
A recent study by Norwegian University of Science and Technology found that nuclear energy can lead to a more affordable energy system overall. It can reduce the need for costly power grid expansions and energy storage, while lowering environmental impacts and air pollution.
The EU's sustainable finance framework urgently needs to expand to address climate goals. The current taxonomy will not meet the Paris Climate Agreement target of limiting global temperature rise to 1.5°C.
The Oklahoma State University men's basketball team participated in an American Heart Association Hands-Only CPR training to learn the correct rate and depth of CPR compressions. This event supports the Nation of Lifesavers movement, which aims to double survival rates from sudden cardiac arrest by 2030.
New research from the University of Michigan shows that small modular nuclear reactors (SMRs) are economically viable and can be deployed by 2050. SMRs have the potential to reduce US carbon dioxide emissions by up to 59 million metric tons annually, making them a low-cost option for meeting energy demands and emission goals.
The $1 trillion investment in climate change mitigation depends on state and local government spending. Local jurisdictions must adopt an experimental attitude to design policies that incentivize consumers and businesses to produce and use more renewable energy. Evaluation of program outcomes is crucial for decarbonization.
The Berlin Declaration aims to achieve carbon neutrality through basic research and international cooperation. The declaration highlights the importance of developing effective measures to reduce CO2 emissions in all sectors, including energy and industry.
A new commentary found that power plants' use of air pollution control devices (APCDs) saved up to 9,100 lives and up to $100 billion in health costs in 2023. The researchers estimated that APCD use could plummet and severely jeopardize the health of the public if Project 2025 or the America First Agenda is enacted.
A new study published in Nature highlights the risks of exceeding 1.5°C warming, which may result in irreversible climate damage, including rising sea levels. The researchers emphasize that ambitious emissions reductions and carbon dioxide removal technologies are necessary to limit damages.
A study by MIT researchers reveals that households in the US South and Southwest are struggling with energy costs, particularly air conditioning needs, as temperatures rise. The current federal program, LIHEAP, does not fully match these trends, with southern states receiving relatively less funding.