Articles tagged with Energy Policy
Researchers argue that improving policy analysis methods can lead to better decisions, particularly for transformative policies like climate change. A new framework focuses on evaluating risks, opportunities, and resilience, rather than just costs and benefits.
The study assesses how much energy is needed to provide the global poor with a decent life and found that this can be reconciled with efforts to meet climate targets. The researchers identified gaps in decent living standards (DLS) by region and estimated the amount of energy required to fill them.
Researchers predict huge petrol and emissions savings from implementing fuel economy standards in Malaysia. If adopted, the standards would save 16.2 billion litres of petrol and reduce CO2-equivalent greenhouse gas emissions by 37.6 million tons.
A global inventory reveals oil refineries emitted 1.3Gt CO2 in 2018, with potential emissions of 16.5Gt by 2030 if no mitigation strategies are adopted. Researchers recommend improving refinery efficiency and upgrading technologies to reduce emissions.
A recent study suggests that personal carbon allowances (PCAs) may be a feasible solution to reduce emissions and promote sustainable lifestyles. The researchers propose a market-based approach to provide individuals with incentives and options to link their actions with global carbon reduction goals.
A study by McGill University researchers found that planned hydropower dams could sever over 260,000 km of river, threatening free-flowing rivers globally. The dams would collectively generate less than 2% of the renewable energy needed by 2050 to keep global temperature increase below 1.5°C.
A clean US hydrogen economy is achievable but requires a comprehensive strategy and infrastructure development. The US needs to consider the production, transport, storage, use, and economic viability of hydrogen to make it viable on a societal scale.
Countries lagging behind in renewable energy adoption risk lower industrial competitiveness and economic instability. Uneven transition patterns can exacerbate existing international tensions, making it difficult for late decarbonizers to catch up with early movers.
The article outlines five complementary actions to increase electrification rates and secure long-term access to affordable energy in Africa. Key findings include the need for an independent champion to transform the sector, international partnerships, and investment in clean energy.
A new study analyzes how access to modern energy services evolves over time under different socioeconomic growth scenarios and policy scenarios that meet climate mitigation goals. The researchers found that socioeconomically diverse households in different regions have distinct preferences for energy services, highlighting the need for...
Researchers estimate that US government subsidies will encourage more oil and gas extraction in the coming decade, particularly at low oil prices. The study's findings suggest that subsidies can flow to excess profits, increasing greenhouse gas emissions and air and water pollution.
A University of Otago study reveals that high proportions of renewable generation coupled with energy storage is technically and economically viable for Samoa's electricity system. The results show that setting targets below 100% and considering biomass options can make renewable energy more attractive and affordable.
A Baylor University study assesses the relationship between large-scale renewable energy and biodiversity conservation. The research suggests that while some renewable energy sources, like hydropower, have been well-studied, others, such as solar, have unknown impacts on local ecosystems.
A systematic analysis of probabilistic cost forecasts from expert-based and model-based methods reveals that current forecasts underestimates the pace of technological change. Model-based approaches outperformed expert elicitations in capturing observed costs, but both underestimated technological progress in most energy technologies.
A Yale School of Environment study found that efficiencies in new home construction, energy consumption, and household appliances have contributed to lower emissions, but other factors may cancel out progress. The researchers suggest shifting from single-family housing to multi-family housing could reduce energy demand by up to 47%.
A new IIASA-led study investigates the potential of polycentric governance in facilitating citizen participation in energy transition. The research found that providing citizens with options to make choices about services affecting their communities increases trust in decision makers, while also increasing awareness and willingness to ...
A new study found that policies in Pennsylvania aimed at protecting public health from fracking were ineffective due to frequent use of exemptions. The study, published in Energy Policy, analyzed well pad locations and found no significant change in how wells were sited after the state's setback policy took effect in 2012.
A study by Chinese Academy of Sciences researchers found that China's efforts to achieve a 1.5°C warming limit require significant reductions in carbon and non-carbon emissions, with substantial declines in energy consumption and fossil fuel use. The study also highlights the importance of transitioning to renewable energy sources.
A new study reveals that energy models play a significant role in shaping the energy transition, influencing policy decisions and informing energy futures. Policymakers are increasingly relying on modeling outputs to define energy and climate targets, while researchers demand greater transparency to protect model credibility.
Researchers at Texas A&M University have developed a metric that reflects the average price of energy in the United States, providing a way to optimize policies for a smooth and efficient transition to clean energy. The energy price index can forecast energy demands and prices, helping policymakers navigate the evolving energy landscape.
Researchers found that without battery storage, homeowners only use 30-40% of their solar PV electricity, while the rest is exported to the grid. With a home battery, self-consumption doubles and grid reliance reduces by up to 84%. Innovative energy policies can make PV-batteries profitable, even in low-solar irradiation countries.
A new study by Ohio State University researchers suggests that a carbon tax is the most effective and cost-efficient way to reduce emissions causing climate change. The study found that adding a price to carbon production resulted in lower emissions at half the cost of renewable energy subsidies.
New research finds that economy-wide rebound effects can erase half of the expected energy and emission savings from improved energy efficiency. The study suggests that climate models fail to adequately capture these rebound effects, which could make achieving Paris Agreement targets harder.
A study by Cornell economists found that market-based or incentive-based environmental policies can spur innovation and improvements in production processes, benefiting regulated firms. However, policies mandating environmental standards and technologies may harm output and profits.
A new study by Carnegie Mellon University researchers shows that a dynamic operating reserve demand curve (ORDC) construction improves reserve procurement and pricing in competitive wholesale electricity markets, particularly during hot and cold hours with heightened risk of generator forced outages.
Researchers found that curtailment priority on pipeline networks is the likely reason for most correlated failures, while firm contracts can reduce generator outages in certain regions. Switching to firm contracts may prevent fuel shortages at US power plants.
New research finds that job opportunities in coastal cities across Bangladesh are attracting more people, leading to increased migration to the coast. Meanwhile, populations already living along the coast tend to stay due to limited alternatives and increased flood damage.
A study found that Brazil's average air conditioning equipment days of use would increase by over 100% in a 4°C warming scenario, significantly impacting space cooling needs. The country's energy consumption and CO2 emissions are projected to rise substantially even in more optimistic future warming scenarios.
Researchers will analyze federal clean energy policy and sectoral systems to enhance their impact. The study aims to provide new technologies, institutions, and business models to avert climate change's worst consequences.
A new study by the University of Nottingham and Durham University found that advanced InSAR techniques could have foreseen the catastrophic tailings dam collapse in Brazil, which killed over 200 people. The research reveals that different areas of the dam were moving at different rates, indicating that failure was foreseeable.
A new study finds that low-carbon policies can be designed to benefit local firms and lower-income families, while also promoting innovation and competitiveness. The researchers analyzed over 7,000 studies to identify the most effective policy combinations that balance environmental goals with social and economic considerations.
A new study suggests that low-carbon policies can be balanced to benefit local firms and lower-income families. The researchers found that five policy types had a negative impact on distributional consequences, while others could boost innovation and pave the way for a fairer transition to zero carbon.
Cornell University is developing a system to convert cattle manure into methane and other products to meet peak heating demands. The proposed system produces approximately 909 million liters of renewable natural gas per year, providing 97% of the campus's annual peak heating demand.
The Russian Journal of Economics' new issue explores the complexities of energy transition amid global crises, including health, economic, environmental, political, and humanitarian crises. Researchers examine emerging trends in global energy markets, renewable energy sources, and geopolitical implications of energy policy changes.
A new study from North Carolina State University reveals that the environmental benefits of renewable power generation differ significantly across regions. The researchers found that one megawatt hour of renewable power produces varying emissions reductions depending on where it was generated.
Researchers discovered that targeted financial incentives, leasing models, and property-assessed clean energy financing increase solar adoption equity in low- and middle-income households. This expansion can lead to a spillover effect, making surrounding neighborhoods more likely to adopt solar as well.
A new study by Cornell University researchers found that government policies played a crucial role in Denmark's widespread adoption of wind energy. The study analyzed the impact of policies on small producers' decisions to shut down or upgrade aging equipment and found that well-designed policies were essential for the industry's growth.
A new study analyzes Germany's bilateral energy partnerships, which are a key instrument of the country's 'soft power' strategy. The partnerships aim to promote climate-friendly technologies and solutions abroad, reflecting Germany's domestic consensus on its energy transition.
A fraction of global COVID-19 stimulus funds could help achieve Paris Agreement goals for the climate by investing in transformative green energy systems. This would boost employment, attract investors and increase society's resilience while providing clean energy.
A new study shows that clean air is achievable globally with policy interventions in multiple sectors, including environmental policies, energy and climate policies, and agricultural production system transformation. The required measures would also contribute to sustainable development and human development goals.
A recent study by Cardiff University researchers found that high levels of air pollution force people indoors, leading to higher electricity consumption in both residential and commercial buildings. The effects are particularly pronounced in lower-income families and those from ethnic minority backgrounds.
Researchers from University of Exeter argue that current global climate pledges are insufficient due to government support for fossil fuels and destructive policies. They call for a comprehensive global plan with seven recommendations to address the climate crisis.
A novel measurement framework has been developed to track energy poverty more accurately, focusing on the services people lack rather than just physical connections. This alternative framework can aid in better tracking of Sustainable Development Goal 7 by virtue of its simplicity and sensitivity to diverse service conditions among the...
A new study found that ARPA-funded startups filed more patents and achieved higher business success rates than those without such funding. The researchers argue that a UK version of the agency could support energy innovation and help the country close its R&D investment gap.
A new approach, Near-term to Net Zero, estimates carbon prices needed for consistency with a net-zero emissions target. The method uses reliable information and avoids uncertainties of long-term changes. Estimated carbon prices range from $32 to $93 per metric ton in 2025.
A new report from PSE Healthy Energy synthesizes the public health dimensions of wildfire prevention and mitigation strategies. The study finds that distributed clean energy resources can support critical services during wildfires and provide climate and air quality benefits. The researchers emphasize the need for public health perspec...
A new study recommends that governments pay billions of pounds to coal plant operators to shut down early and compensate regional economies hardest hit by the loss of coal producers. This will ensure a just transition to greener energy production.
The COVID-19 pandemic's economic recovery will significantly impact global warming, with stimulus dollars spent on fossil fuels or clean energy having a lasting effect. Governments must prioritize a green recovery, investing in sectors like renewables and energy efficiency to create jobs and reduce emissions.
A comparative study by researchers from RIFS finds that both Germany and the UK can do more to mitigate climate change in the heating sector. The authors recommend introducing a commitment to phasing out high-carbon heating and embedding it in planned policy interventions.
A new study found that telecommuting may have limited energy savings due to increased travel for recreation and other purposes. Studies with more rigorous methodologies showed less clear-cut results, highlighting the complexity of modern work patterns.
Researchers propose increasing investment in sustainable energy systems to decarbonize industry. The COVID-19 pandemic presents opportunities for low-interest rates and public spending to support the clean energy transition. Structural change is necessary to address climate change.
Granular energy technologies offer lower-cost and modular solutions for rapid low-carbon energy transition. Policy support can help accelerate this shift while larger technologies continue to develop.
An interdisciplinary team of researchers finds that it is possible to bring industrial greenhouse gas emissions to net zero by 2070 through the use of promising technologies such as electrification, hydrogen, and energy efficiency. Governments can accelerate research and development and incentivize new technology deployment through pol...
A study by New York University researchers found that mandatory building energy audits led to modest reductions in energy use, but not enough to meet citywide carbon-reduction goals. The results suggest that a more comprehensive data-driven energy policy is needed to encourage significant energy efficiency investments.
A new study examines energy inequality across 86 countries, revealing extreme disparities in energy footprints and consumption patterns. The research shows that the top 10% of consumers consume roughly 20 times more energy than the bottom 10%, with significant inequalities in transport, heating, and electricity.
A study on US public perceptions of energy mixes found that most participants underestimated oil and gas contributions and overestimated wind and solar energy. Participants showed a strong preference for a steep increase in solar and wind energy and a decrease in fossil fuels by 2050.
A new study by Duke University reveals that piracy in the Strait of Hormuz can have a significant toll on smaller Persian Gulf countries, including Bahrain and Kuwait. These nations export refined petroleum products, which make up a larger proportion of their GDP, making them more vulnerable to slowdowns in energy shipping.
A new study published in Energy and Environment found that despite high awareness of climate change, people are hesitant to take action due to differing worldviews. The study identifies four major worldviews influencing opinions on policy interventions and individual responsibility.
A comprehensive analysis by Northwestern University and Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory found that data center energy use has remained roughly flat over the past decade, despite increasing demand for data. The researchers made strategic policy recommendations to manage future growth in energy use.
A McGill-led study found that people's reluctance to give up traditional stoves is linked to factors like age, education, and self-reported health. The study highlights the need for better understanding of household motivations to encourage a successful transition to clean energy.