Power and sustainability
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Power and Sustainability: A Comprehensive Overview
Conceptual Framework for Power in Sustainability Research
Understanding the role of power in sustainability research is crucial for addressing long-term environmental challenges. A dynamic power framework has been developed to analyze socio-technical sustainability transitions, emphasizing the importance of interdisciplinary approaches and long-term change dynamics . This framework integrates various research paradigms, providing a comprehensive tool for sustainability assessments.
Global Sustainability of Electricity Generation Systems
Assessing the sustainability of different electricity generation systems is essential for informed decision-making. A model using requirement trees, value functions, and the analytic hierarchy process has been developed to evaluate the sustainability of both conventional and renewable energy plants. The findings indicate that renewable energy sources, such as high-temperature solar-thermal plants, wind farms, and photovoltaic solar plants, contribute more significantly to sustainable development compared to conventional power plants .
Sustainable Energy Transition Strategies
The transition to sustainable energy systems is critical for mitigating greenhouse gas emissions and combating climate change. Strategies for this transition include energy savings, generation efficiency, and the substitution of fossil fuels with renewable energy sources and low-carbon nuclear options. Policy initiatives are necessary to support this transition, ensuring the adoption of renewable energy and the improvement of existing nonrenewable sources . A resilient grid with advanced energy storage is also essential for managing the variability of renewable energy sources.
Multi-Objective Optimization in Power System Planning
Integrating sustainability indicators into power system planning requires balancing multiple, often conflicting, objectives. A multi-objective optimization model has been proposed to address this challenge, considering factors such as cost, carbon emissions, land use, and social opposition. The model helps decision-makers understand the trade-offs between different objectives and identify the most suitable electricity generation mix .
Sustainability Assessment of Renewable Power Technologies
Renewable energy sources (RES) play a pivotal role in achieving a sustainable energy system. A multi-criteria sustainability assessment of various RES technologies reveals that concentrated solar power, hydropower, and geothermal power plants are among the most beneficial for power generation. These technologies not only mitigate climate change but also contribute to employment and economic growth .
Power Dynamics in Sustainable Supply Chains
Power dynamics significantly influence the implementation of sustainable practices in supply chains. A study using resource-dependence theory (RDT) highlights how power relationships between buyers and suppliers affect the adoption of sustainability initiatives. Effective power management can support or hinder cooperation around sustainability, emphasizing the need for strategic relationship management to achieve sustainability goals .
European Power System Sustainability
The European Union's goal of becoming climate-neutral by 2050 necessitates a comprehensive assessment of its power systems. A composite indicator, the power system sustainability index (PSS index), has been developed to evaluate the sustainability of power systems across EU member states. This index considers social, economic, and environmental dimensions, providing a holistic view of power system sustainability .
Performance Evaluation of Power Systems
Evaluating the performance of power systems from a sustainability perspective involves considering environmental, economic, and social dimensions. The Triple Bottom Line theory is commonly used for this purpose, with methods such as Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) and Multi-Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) being prevalent. Future research should focus on improving evaluation frameworks and incorporating more social sustainability indicators .
Pathways to Sustainable Electricity
Achieving a 100% renewable electricity system by 2050 is both technically and economically feasible. This transition requires steady, evolutionary changes and the adoption of renewable energy technologies. A global, carbon-neutral electricity system can be built, ensuring a sustainable and affordable power supply for all regions .
Energy and Environment as Foundations for Sustainable Development
The energy sector plays a crucial role in sustainable development, influencing both economic and environmental outcomes. Transitioning to cleaner technologies and developing alternative energy sources are essential for reducing environmental pollution and ensuring a sustainable future. Efforts to produce renewable energy and monitor environmental impacts align with the broader goals of sustainable development .
Conclusion
The integration of power dynamics, sustainability assessments, and strategic planning is essential for transitioning to sustainable energy systems. By adopting interdisciplinary approaches, optimizing power system planning, and managing supply chain relationships, we can achieve a sustainable and resilient energy future. The ongoing research and development in this field provide valuable insights and tools for policymakers, engineers, and decision-makers to drive sustainable development.
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Most relevant research papers on this topic
A dynamic conceptualization of power for sustainability research
A dynamic power framework for sustainability research effectively integrates long-term dynamics and interdisciplinary perspectives, contributing to the state-of-the-art in sustainability research.
Assessing the global sustainability of different electricity generation systems
Renewable energies contribute significantly to sustainable development, with the exception of biomass fuels, and the model can help inform decision-making in the energy policy field.
Sustainable Energy Transition for Renewable and Low Carbon Grid Electricity Generation and Supply
Sustainable energy transition strategies, including energy savings, generation efficiency, and fossil fuel substitution, can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and global climate change.
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