Meselu Tegenie Mellaku, Yibeltal T. Wassie, Pernille Seljom, Muyiwa S. Adaramola
The economy of East Africa (EA) is striving for a structural transformation with a strong focus on expanding the manufacturing sector. However, challenges related to modern and reliable energy supply have hindered the sector's growth performance across the region. This systematic review explores the potential, opportunities, and challenges to integrating decentralized renewable energy solutions to bridge the energy supply-demand gap in the EA's manufacturing sector. It also provides up-to-date insights into the extent of integration of decentralized renewable energy technologies in the EA manufacturing sector. Relevant data and information for the review were retrieved from 46 references, including databases and web-based sources. The findings highlight that the EA region possesses abundant untapped solar, wind, and bioenergy resources that can close the sector's energy supply-demand gap. The review also reveals that renewable energy solutions are becoming increasingly techno-economically competitive with conventional energy sources for hybrid and stand-alone applications in the manufacturing sector. However, several challenges impede the integration of decentralized renewable energy technologies in the sector, including a lack of enabling regulatory frameworks, limited financing options, limited access to renewable technologies , and a lack of skilled labor. Nonetheless, international initiatives aimed at supporting developing countries in combating climate change can help overcome the region's financial and technological constraints by facilitating technology transfer, capacity building, and offering affordable financing options. Furthermore, the ambition of East African nations to expand their manufacturing sectors presents a stimulating opportunity to accelerate the integration of decentralized renewable energy technologies into the sector.
This paper examines the role of advanced biofuels in promoting energy access and economic growth in rural areas, with a focus on developing countries. Advanced biofuels, produced from non-food biomass sources such as agricultural residues, algae, and waste, have the potential to reduce rural energy poverty while creating economic opportunities. Through case studies of successful initiatives in countries like India and Brazil, this study highlights how decentralized biofuel production has improved energy access, created local employment, and enhanced agricultural value chains. Notable findings include the establishment of community-led biofuel plants that reduced reliance on imported fossil fuels and generated sustainable incomes for farmers by utilizing crop residues. The study also identifies key challenges such as limited infrastructure, access to financing, and policy support, while offering actionable recommendations to scale advanced biofuel adoption. Overall, advanced biofuels present a promising pathway to sustainable rural development by enhancing energy security, reducing environmental impact, and fostering economic growth.
Ezinne C Chukwuma-Eke, Olakojo Yusuff Ogunsola, Ngozi Joan Isibor
Access to affordable and reliable energy remains a significant challenge for underserved communities, particularly in developing regions. Financial constraints, lack of investment, and inadequate policy frameworks hinder the widespread adoption of modern energy solutions. This paper explores the role of financial inclusion strategies, driven by technology and policy interventions, in improving energy access for marginalized populations. By integrating digital financial services, decentralized energy systems, and innovative policy measures, this study proposes a comprehensive framework to bridge the energy gap. The proposed framework focuses on leveraging financial technology (FinTech), mobile banking, and blockchain-based microfinancing to enhance accessibility to clean energy solutions. Digital payment platforms and mobile-based credit scoring models facilitate microloans for renewable energy adoption, empowering low-income households and small enterprises. Blockchain technology ensures transparency, security, and accountability in financial transactions, reducing the risks of fraud and inefficiencies in energy financing. Policy interventions play a crucial role in fostering financial inclusion and energy accessibility. Targeted subsidies, regulatory reforms, and public-private partnerships are essential for creating an enabling environment. Governments and financial institutions must collaborate to design policies that incentivize investment in decentralized energy projects, such as mini-grids and off-grid solar solutions. Additionally, carbon credit markets and green bonds can provide sustainable financing mechanisms for long-term energy development. A case study analysis highlights successful implementations of technology-driven financial inclusion models in regions with limited energy access. Results demonstrate that integrating mobile financial services and decentralized energy solutions leads to increased energy affordability, economic empowerment, and improved quality of life. The findings underscore the need for a multi-stakeholder approach, combining technological innovation, policy support, and community engagement to drive sustainable energy inclusion. This study contributes to the discourse on financial inclusion and energy sustainability by proposing a data-driven and policy-oriented approach. Future research should explore the scalability of digital financial services in emerging markets and the long-term impact of financial inclusion strategies on energy equity.
Or Yatzkan, Reuven Cohen, Eyal Yaniv, Orit Rotem-Mindali
Urban energy efficiency and sustainability are critical challenges, as cities worldwide attempt to balance economic growth, environmental sustainability, and energy consumption. This systematic review examines the dynamics of urban energy management, focusing on how local authorities navigate energy transitions through efficiency measures, renewable energy adoption, and policy interventions. Specifically, it seeks to answer the following research question: how do local authorities implement energy-efficient practices and adopt renewable energy technologies to reduce emissions, optimize cost-effectiveness, and influence urban policy-making? The goal of this study is to assess the effectiveness of these approaches in different urban contexts. By reviewing 47 articles, this study identifies the unique characteristics of urban energy management and highlights the need for tailored, context-specific solutions, such as integrating decentralized renewable energy systems, optimizing building energy performance, and developing policy incentives that consider local socio-economic conditions. The findings reveal varying degrees of success among cities, with particular challenges in lower-income municipalities, where financial and institutional barriers hinder the implementation of sustainable energy projects. This study concludes that localized approaches and long-term strategies are essential for achieving sustainable urban energy transitions, offering a comprehensive perspective on the complexities of urban energy systems and their evolving policy landscape. Future research should focus on assessing the long-term impact of municipal energy policies, exploring innovative financing mechanisms for renewable energy integration, and examining the role of digital technologies in optimizing urban energy management.
Abstract: This systematic review of literature bears the objective of exploring the potential of transformative novel blockchain technology, its regulation, and the substantive impact it bears on renewable energy firms' competitive advantage. The study provides a minutiae of the current trends in research, their implications, and blockchain implementation and innovation between 2019 to 2024. The methodology comprised a comprehensive search of scholarly databases, selection, and analysis of the relevant research studies. The findings revealed that Blockchain is essential based on its transparency, traceability, data privacy, and decentralization features which enhance trust, transparency, and traceability across the supply chain. Furthermore, blockchain technology is relevant in the renewable energy sector in Kenya ranging from p2p trading platforms, digitization by IoT, E-mobility, and decentralized trading platforms. The distributed ledger technology is a promising disruption for a wide area of service and product management in the energy sector ranging from the producers, transmitters, regulators, and distributors involved. The review concludes with future research recommendations and the practical implications for the industry players and the regulators.
Abstract Nigeriaâs urban areas continue to face unreliable electricity supply, rising demand, and dependence on costly, polluting petrol and diesel generators. Hybrid renewable energy systems (HRES) â integrating solar, wind, and battery technologies â offer a viable pathway to provide clean, decentralized, and resilient power. This review critically examines the policy, institutional, and governance factors shaping HRES deployment in urban Nigeria, identifying the key barriers and reforms required to scale adoption. Findings reveal that expansion is constrained by fragmented regulation, weak institutional coordination, limited access to affordable finance, and fossil-fuel subsidies that distort energy prices and discourage renewable investment. Institutional overlap among the relevant agencies further constrains implementation. Technical barriers, such as limited local expertise, high component import costs, and poor grid integration, further elevate project risks and reduce system reliability. The study recommends regulatory harmonization under the new Electricity Act (2023), implementation of performance-based fiscal incentives, and expansion of green financing mechanisms to lower investment risk. Strengthening local manufacturing, research and development, and workforce capacity will be essential to reduce dependence on imports and sustain long-term growth. Finally, promoting gender equity, community participation, and inclusive business models can enhance social acceptance and promote fair distribution of the benefits associated with HRES across all urban populations. Collectively, these measures can accelerate Nigeriaâs transition toward a cleaner, more reliable, and climate-resilient urban energy future.
The development of micro-scale renewable energy power generation systems, such as micro-hydropower (MHP), often needs more consideration for sustainability during the planning stages. Many small-scale renewable energy systems have shorter-than-expected lifespans, jeopardizing Indonesia's Net Zero Emission Target for 2060 or earlier. Despite this, only some studies have examined the long-term viability of installed renewable energy generation projects, particularly MHP plants not managed by state-owned companies or PLN (Pembangkit Listrik Negara). The primary objectives of this research are to evaluate the feasibility of retrofitting and assess the potential sustainability of a decommissioned MHP in Banjarnegara, Central Java. A cash flow analysis was performed to assess techno-economic indicators. Additionally, the social-institutional dimension was analyzed through in-depth interviews with 15 stakeholders. Sustainability was evaluated using a framework of 15 indicators across technical, economic, environmental, social, and institutional dimensions. The findings revealed that among the four sustainability aspects, the social-institutional dimension scored the lowest potential sustainability at 26.67%. In contrast, the technical and environmental dimensions showed higher potential sustainability, scoring 83.7% and 87.5%, respectively. The economic dimension was deemed feasible only when the financing model accounted solely for retrofitting costs. It is crucial to consider all dimensions comprehensively. Furthermore, engaging multiple stakeholders and fostering local community awareness is vital to ensure the long-term sustainability of decentralized energy systems. This study enhances the understanding of the sustainability potential of abandoned decentralized energy systems and explores how reusing abandoned MHP facilities can support stakeholders in revitalization efforts, contributing to an increased share of renewable energy in the overall energy mix.
Zhihai Li, Baoju Li, Yi Hua, Jiyue Fu · 6 authors
Solar photovoltaic power generation has become one of the most important means of securing the worldâs energy supply strategy, drastically reducing emissions and ensuring sustainable development by taking advantage of the cleanliness and safety of the energy source. The development of photovoltaic (PV) power stations in pieces and the formation of PV power station clusters have become a new issue. Most traditional methods use ledger data from a single source for feature extraction, and it is difficult to achieve complete extraction of their features. In this paper, a distributed PV plant cluster ledger feature extraction method based on multi-source heterogeneous data fusion is proposed to achieve accurate prediction of PV power cluster power. Firstly, the information integration equipment is used to aggregate the power generation status information of the PV power plant cluster, including natural environment information, module parameters, battery energy storage, shadow coverage, etc. to achieve the collection of heterogeneous data from multiple sources. Secondly, the energy conversion calculation is performed based on the above information, and the unit time failure rate information is integrated to optimize the energy conversion through the failure rate calculation model. Finally, the LSTM neural network is used to process the above information, and the neural network is used to predict the PV power to optimize the operation of the PV power system. The comparison with the linear regression model proves that the model proposed in this paper has a higher prediction effect.
Bitcoin minesâmassive computing clusters generating cryptocurrency tokensâconsume vast amounts of electricity. The amount of fine particle (PM2.5) air pollution created because of their electricity consumption and its effect on environmental health is pending. In this study, we located the 34 largest mines in the United States in 2022, identified the electricity-generating plants that responded to them, and pinpointed communities most harmed by Bitcoin mine-attributable air pollution. From mid-2022 to mid-2023, the 34 mines consumed 32.3 terawatt-hours of electricityâ33% more than Los Angelesâ85% of which came from fossil fuels. We estimated that 1.9 million Americans were exposed to â„0.1 ÎŒg/m3 of additional PM2.5 pollution from Bitcoin mines, often hundreds of miles away from the communities they affected. Americans living in four regionsâincluding New York City and near Houstonâwere exposed to the highest Bitcoin mine-attributable PM2.5 concentrations (â„0.5 ÎŒg/m3) with the greatest health risks. The paper maps air pollution from power plants supplying electricity to US Bitcoin mines. It finds that 1.9 million people in 2022-2023 breathed toxic amounts of Bitcoin mine attributable pollution, particularly around New York City and Houston.
Chinonso Nwanevu, Segun Samuel Oladipo, Abidemi Obatoyinbo Ajayi
Designing effective policy frameworks for the implementation of microgrids in developing countries is crucial for advancing sustainable energy access. Microgrids offer a decentralized and resilient solution to energy challenges, particularly in regions with limited grid infrastructure. However, the successful deployment of microgrids requires a nuanced understanding of the opportunities, challenges, and pathways to integration within the unique contexts of developing nations. This study explores the key factors influencing the design and implementation of microgrid policies, including regulatory environments, financial incentives, and technological innovations. It highlights the potential of microgrids to enhance energy security, reduce carbon emissions, and support economic development. At the same time, it addresses the challenges related to financing, regulatory compliance, and the need for capacity-building in local communities. By analyzing case studies from various developing countries, the study identifies best practices and strategic recommendations for policymakers to create supportive frameworks that encourage the adoption of microgrids. The research underscores the importance of international collaboration, public-private partnerships, and adaptive policy mechanisms that can respond to the evolving needs of the energy sector. Ultimately, the study provides a roadmap for leveraging microgrids as a key component of sustainable energy strategies in developing countries, contributing to broader goals of energy equity, environmental sustainability, and economic resilience.
Samuel Chukwujindu Nwokolo, Anthony Umunnakwe Obiwulu, Paul C. Okonkwo
This chapter delves into the current energy landscape in Africa and reflects the continentâs strong commitment to achieving a net zero energy transition. With an increasing focus on renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, African countries are embracing innovative technologies and sustainable practices. This shift toward cleaner and more efficient energy systems not only addresses the pressing issue of climate change but also presents immense opportunities for economic growth and social development across the continent. This chapter also delves into improving access to electricity in rural areas through decentralized energy systems, such as mini-grids and off-grid solutions. These decentralized energy systems not only provide reliable and affordable electricity to remote communities but also create employment opportunities and empower local economies. Strengthening regional cooperation and integration for better energy planning and resource sharing in Africa is another sustainable solution that can further drive economic growth and social development. By collaborating on energy projects and sharing resources, African countries can optimize their energy production and distribution, leading to increased access to electricity for all citizens. This regional cooperation also promotes stability and resilience in the energy sector, ensuring a sustainable and reliable energy supply for the continentâs future. Developing sustainable financing mechanisms for energy projects, including innovative financing models, is yet another important aspect of driving economic growth and social development in Africa. By exploring alternative financing options such as publicâprivate partnerships and impact investing, African countries can attract more investment into their energy sector. This will not only accelerate the development of renewable energy projects but also create job opportunities and stimulate economic growth in the region. Implementing transparent and accountable financial systems will ensure that funds are allocated efficiently and effectively toward sustainable energy initiatives, further enhancing the continentâs path toward a sustainable future. This book also delves into the impact of the current energy landscape on economic development in Africa and highlights the need for diversification in energy sources. These ranged from limited access to electricity hindering the growth of industries and businesses, leading to reduced job opportunities and income generation, to inadequate energy infrastructure hampering transportation systems, hindering trade and economic integration within the continent.
Abstract Energy geography has not scrutinized the role of energy infrastructures and market design for decentralized energy production and local development. The paper addresses this research gap by looking at the emerging greenâhydrogen market in Germany. We argue, first, that the capacity and geography of infrastructures and associated bottlenecks determine how supply and demand can be matched at different scales. Second, market design and associated controversies over infrastructure bottlenecks are important for understanding the greenâhydrogen market and its geography and financing. Conceptually, we draw on the geographyâofâmarkets literature. Empirically, we show how infrastructure bottlenecks and market design link the greenâhydrogen to the renewableâelectricity market. As long as the market design requires greenâhydrogen production in geographical and temporal correlation with renewableâelectricity generation, the geography of greenâhydrogen production follows the geography of renewableâelectricity generation. Moreover, bottlenecks in transportation infrastructures offer a window of opportunity for decentralized production and local development.
Renewable energy trading could be considered the next step in power trading's development. It is probable that individuals currently involved in power trading will need to upgrade their data collection, processing, and reporting systems. This article provides a comprehensive evaluation of renewable energy trading utilizing Blockchain technology. Initially, the paper examines country-specific renewable energy trading with a focus on India, China, the US, France, and Germany's renewable energy policies. Moreover, the paper presents potential renewable energy trading markets such as peer-to-peer, over the grid, and partially or fully independent microgrid's. This paper shows the appraisal of bond, commodity, derivative, and algorithm-based renewable energy trading using different Blockchain methods, including Ethereum and R3 Corda. It is find out during the renewable energy trading, proposers of bid, also include capital cost of the renewable energy power plant, salvage value after useful life of different component of renewable energy power plant. It is also find out proper trading is to be done with offering subsidies of up to 70% of the capital cost, and with a 30% viability gap finance (VGF) at this cost.
Climate change persists as a pressing global issue due to high greenhouse gas emissions from fossil fuel-based energy sources. A transition to a greener energy matrix combined with carbon offsetting is imperative to mitigate the rate at which global temperature ascends. While countries have deployed faith in green hydrogen to accelerate worldwide decarbonization efforts, the concurrent rise of blockchain-operated crypto-applications, such as bitcoin, has exacerbated climate change concerns. In this study, we propose technological solutions that combine the green hydrogen infrastructure with bitcoin mining operations to catalyze environmental and socioeconomic sustainability in climate change mitigation strategies. Since the present state of crypto-operations undeniably contributes to worldwide carbon emissions, it becomes vital to explore opportunities for harnessing the widespread enthusiasm for bitcoin as an aid toward a sustainable and climate-friendly future. Our findings reveal that green hydrogen production, paired with crypto-operations, can accelerate the deployment of solar and wind power capacities to boost conventional mitigation frameworks. Specifically, leveraging the economic potential derived from green hydrogen and bitcoin for incremental investment in renewable energy penetration, this dynamic duo can enable capacity expansions of up to 25.5% and 73.2% for solar and wind power installations. Therefore, the proposed technological solutions that leverage green hydrogen and bitcoin mining, bolstered with appropriate policy interventions, can not only strengthen renewable power generation and carbon offsetting capacities but also contribute significantly to achieving climate sustainability.
Based on China's provincial panel data from 2011 to 2020, this paper empirically analyzes the impact of digital financial inclusion(DFI) on regional energy consumption(ECI) using two-way fixed effects model, panel threshold effects model and instrumental variables regression. The results show that, firstly, DFI`s development has an obvious inhibitory effect on the intensity of regional energy consumption. Meanwhile, the heterogeneity analysis finds that there are obvious regional differences, differences in the degree of financial agglomeration and differences in their own dimensions in the inhibitory effect of DFI on regional energy consumption. Specifically, the energy-saving effect of digital finance is more obvious in the western region of China, in regions with a lower degree of financial agglomeration, and the strongest inhibitory effect is the breadth of digital inclusion coverage. In addition, the threshold effect analysis shows that the energy-saving effect of DFI not only increases with DFI`s development, but also exists in a non-linear pattern of significant "marginal increment" as the degree of economic decentralization increases. To this end, China should make greater efforts to develop DFI and optimize its industrial structure; formulate differentiated development policies that take into account the resource endowment, industrial structure and technological level of each region; and improve its macroeconomic governance system by taking into account the level of DFI`s development in the region, as well as the power of financial decision-making and financial management..
Ibegbulam C.M, O.J Aigbovbiosa, J. A. Olowonubi, S. A. Fatounde
The research explores the relationship between Artificial Intelligence (AI) and electrification in Africa, focusing on the challenges and emerging trends. The electrification deficit in Africa poses a significant impediment to economic development and social progress. This paper explores the pivotal role that Artificial Intelligence (AI) plays in addressing the challenges associated with electrification initiatives across the African continent. With its capacity for innovation and optimization, AI emerges as a transformative force capable of revolutionizing the planning, deployment, and management of electrification projects in a region characterized by diverse geographical landscapes and economic constraints. The paper investigates the potential of AI in addressing financial barriers associated with electrification projects. By facilitating innovative financing models, reducing operational costs, and attracting investments, AI contributes to creating sustainable and economically viable electrification solutions. The focus extends to decentralized energy systems and microgrids, exploring how AI can empower remote and underserved communities with reliable access to electricity. The socio-economic impact of AI-driven electrification initiatives is also scrutinized, emphasizing the potential for job creation, economic growth, and improved living standards. The paper discusses the importance of capacity building and local empowerment to ensure that AI technologies are effectively integrated into electrification projects while fostering inclusive and sustainable development. It highlights the role of AI in revolutionizing electrification, predicting electricity consumption and enabling decentralized solutions. AI-driven electrification has shown economic and social benefits, including enhanced productivity, improved quality of life, and increased market access. However, it also raises ethical concerns and privacy implications. The research emphasizes the need for proactive mitigation strategies and collaborations across sectors to drive regulatory frameworks, technological innovations, and global impact. The research envisions a future where AI plays a central role in fostering inclusive growth, connecting communities, and illuminating a digitally transformed and sustainable continent. Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, Electrification, Africa, Electricity, Energy