Pub Date : 2025-10-22DOI: 10.1016/j.clet.2025.101105
Hongyang Liu , Min Zhang , Wei Wu , Baolin Chen , Anmin Wang , Wendal Victor Yue , Hehua Zhu
The carbon emissions from tunnel construction can cause a significant impact to today's deteriorating environmental conditions, with a substantial portion arising from construction machinery. However, current methods lack accuracy in quantifying these emissions in real-world projects. This paper proposed a new calculation model for timely result output of construction machines used in drilling-and-blast tunnelling which considered on-site influencing factors. In particular, the proposed model classified different machineries into different groups based on the tunnel construction processes and machinery's function, incorporating internal combustion engines, electric motors, and operational resistance. The reliability and applicability of the model is verified with real tunnel construction data. Through control variable comparisons, the impacts of slope, acceleration, and complex road conditions on mechanical carbon emissions are analyzed. Based on construction time and operational processes, the advantages of introducing new battery-based energy machinery compared to traditional fossil fuel machinery are highlighted, confirming the various benefits of new energy machinery. Besides, this study provides a method for calibrating the carbon emissions of tunnel construction machinery. This study helps understanding the environmental impact of construction and aids subsequent research on machinery selection.
{"title":"A carbon emission calculation model and evaluation method for drill-and-blast tunnel construction machinery","authors":"Hongyang Liu , Min Zhang , Wei Wu , Baolin Chen , Anmin Wang , Wendal Victor Yue , Hehua Zhu","doi":"10.1016/j.clet.2025.101105","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.clet.2025.101105","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The carbon emissions from tunnel construction can cause a significant impact to today's deteriorating environmental conditions, with a substantial portion arising from construction machinery. However, current methods lack accuracy in quantifying these emissions in real-world projects. This paper proposed a new calculation model for timely result output of construction machines used in drilling-and-blast tunnelling which considered on-site influencing factors. In particular, the proposed model classified different machineries into different groups based on the tunnel construction processes and machinery's function, incorporating internal combustion engines, electric motors, and operational resistance. The reliability and applicability of the model is verified with real tunnel construction data. Through control variable comparisons, the impacts of slope, acceleration, and complex road conditions on mechanical carbon emissions are analyzed. Based on construction time and operational processes, the advantages of introducing new battery-based energy machinery compared to traditional fossil fuel machinery are highlighted, confirming the various benefits of new energy machinery. Besides, this study provides a method for calibrating the carbon emissions of tunnel construction machinery. This study helps understanding the environmental impact of construction and aids subsequent research on machinery selection.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34618,"journal":{"name":"Cleaner Engineering and Technology","volume":"29 ","pages":"Article 101105"},"PeriodicalIF":6.5,"publicationDate":"2025-10-22","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145417114","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-10-20DOI: 10.1016/j.clet.2025.101098
Stefan Puschnigg , Daniel Patauner , Hans Böhm , Eduard Doujak , Christoph Müller
The Water-Energy Nexus highlights the interdependence of water and energy systems. Optimizing this nexus through digital solutions enhances water supply resilience, boosts renewable energy generation, reduces greenhouse gas emissions, and supports carbon neutrality by 2050.
This study digitalizes a water supply system (WSS) of a typical rural Austrian municipality, including pipes, pumps, valves, junctions, tanks, and reservoirs. The digital WSS model, developed using EPANET simulations, identifies hydropower potential and supports the integration of digital solutions such as sensors for leakage reduction and monitoring. To structure these opportunities, a categorization approach is introduced for WSSs, divided into three sections (I – III) based on the available head along the water flow. Each section has its specific objectives and focus areas, ranging from energy generation for sale to powering monitoring devices. Hydraulic turbine types such as Pelton, Francis, Kaplan, pump-as-turbine (PAT), and emerging in-pipe turbines as well as energy harvesters are assigned accordingly. Techno-economic assessments evaluate energy recovery opportunities and cost-saving potentials from digitization, while SWOT and PESTLE analyses support strategic risk management.
Results revealed that section I focus on energy sales as an additional revenue stream for the WSS, achieving a use-case-specific levelized cost of electricity (LCoE) of 103 €/MWh with a Pelton turbine. In section II, several hidden hydropower potential points were identified, including a maximum single-point potential of approx. 6.9 kW at a pressure reduction valve, yielding LCoE of 26 €/MWh with a PAT. This potential is found suitable for local supply and to increase self-sufficiency of the WSS. In section III, digitized monitoring enables earlier leakage detection, with potentially savings up to 30 % of revenue water.
Digitalized WSSs are essential for optimizing both energy and water efficiency. They foster the development of smarter WSSs, enhance resilience and ensure a secure and reliable water supply.
{"title":"Digitalization and hydropower integration in water supply systems: Unlocking energy potential, efficiency, and resilience","authors":"Stefan Puschnigg , Daniel Patauner , Hans Böhm , Eduard Doujak , Christoph Müller","doi":"10.1016/j.clet.2025.101098","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.clet.2025.101098","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The Water-Energy Nexus highlights the interdependence of water and energy systems. Optimizing this nexus through digital solutions enhances water supply resilience, boosts renewable energy generation, reduces greenhouse gas emissions, and supports carbon neutrality by 2050.</div><div>This study digitalizes a water supply system (WSS) of a typical rural Austrian municipality, including pipes, pumps, valves, junctions, tanks, and reservoirs. The digital WSS model, developed using EPANET simulations, identifies hydropower potential and supports the integration of digital solutions such as sensors for leakage reduction and monitoring. To structure these opportunities, a categorization approach is introduced for WSSs, divided into three sections (I – III) based on the available head along the water flow. Each section has its specific objectives and focus areas, ranging from energy generation for sale to powering monitoring devices. Hydraulic turbine types such as Pelton, Francis, Kaplan, pump-as-turbine (PAT), and emerging in-pipe turbines as well as energy harvesters are assigned accordingly. Techno-economic assessments evaluate energy recovery opportunities and cost-saving potentials from digitization, while SWOT and PESTLE analyses support strategic risk management.</div><div>Results revealed that section I focus on energy sales as an additional revenue stream for the WSS, achieving a use-case-specific levelized cost of electricity (LCoE) of 103 €/MWh with a Pelton turbine. In section II, several hidden hydropower potential points were identified, including a maximum single-point potential of approx. 6.9 kW at a pressure reduction valve, yielding LCoE of 26 €/MWh with a PAT. This potential is found suitable for local supply and to increase self-sufficiency of the WSS. In section III, digitized monitoring enables earlier leakage detection, with potentially savings up to 30 % of revenue water.</div><div>Digitalized WSSs are essential for optimizing both energy and water efficiency. They foster the development of smarter WSSs, enhance resilience and ensure a secure and reliable water supply.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34618,"journal":{"name":"Cleaner Engineering and Technology","volume":"29 ","pages":"Article 101098"},"PeriodicalIF":6.5,"publicationDate":"2025-10-20","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145363080","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Solar distillation is an effective and practical approach to tackling the global freshwater crisis, especially in water-scarce regions The present study focuses on optimizing the thermo-economic performance of solar still (SS) systems through both experimental investigations and analytical evaluations. Three configurations were examined: (i) a conventional solar still (Case I), (ii) a modified solar still integrated with a vortex tube and ultrasonic fogger (Case II), and (iii) an advanced modification that additionally incorporates a solar air heater (Case III). Experiments were conducted under outdoor conditions at Kermanshah University of Technology, Iran, during June 2024, with precise measurements of temperature, solar radiation, and distilled water yield. The Black Horse Algorithm, combined with comprehensive 6E/HT analyses (Energy, Exergy, Economic, Exergo-economic, Environmental, and Enviro-economic analyses, as well as Sustainability and Heat Transfer), was employed to maximize freshwater production. Results demonstrate that Case III significantly outperforms other configurations, achieving a daily freshwater yield of 1127 mL/m2.day, a 206.66 % improvement over Case I, which yields 367.5 mL/m2.day. Energy and Exergy efficiencies improved by 194.74 % and 282.53 %, respectively, with energy and exergy payback times of 1.69 and 4.14 years. Economically, Case III offers a competitive production cost of 0.245 $/L/m2 over a 10-year lifespan. Through optimization, Case III achieved an enhanced daily yield of 1146.97 mL/m2.day, underscoring its potential as a sustainable, cost-effective, and renewable-energy-driven desalination solution for innovative urban applications.
{"title":"Experimental optimization of modified solar distillation system using black horse algorithm and 6E/HT analysis for sustainable freshwater production","authors":"Sajjad Khanjani , Shoaib Khanmohammadi , Shiva Gorjian , Maziar moradvandi","doi":"10.1016/j.clet.2025.101096","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.clet.2025.101096","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Solar distillation is an effective and practical approach to tackling the global freshwater crisis, especially in water-scarce regions The present study focuses on optimizing the thermo-economic performance of solar still (SS) systems through both experimental investigations and analytical evaluations. Three configurations were examined: (i) a conventional solar still (Case I), (ii) a modified solar still integrated with a vortex tube and ultrasonic fogger (Case II), and (iii) an advanced modification that additionally incorporates a solar air heater (Case III). Experiments were conducted under outdoor conditions at Kermanshah University of Technology, Iran, during June 2024, with precise measurements of temperature, solar radiation, and distilled water yield. The Black Horse Algorithm, combined with comprehensive 6E/HT analyses (Energy, Exergy, Economic, Exergo-economic, Environmental, and Enviro-economic analyses, as well as Sustainability and Heat Transfer), was employed to maximize freshwater production. Results demonstrate that Case III significantly outperforms other configurations, achieving a daily freshwater yield of 1127 mL/m<sup>2</sup>.day, a 206.66 % improvement over Case I, which yields 367.5 mL/m<sup>2</sup>.day. Energy and Exergy efficiencies improved by 194.74 % and 282.53 %, respectively, with energy and exergy payback times of 1.69 and 4.14 years. Economically, Case III offers a competitive production cost of 0.245 $/L/m<sup>2</sup> over a 10-year lifespan. Through optimization, Case III achieved an enhanced daily yield of 1146.97 mL/m<sup>2</sup>.day, underscoring its potential as a sustainable, cost-effective, and renewable-energy-driven desalination solution for innovative urban applications.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34618,"journal":{"name":"Cleaner Engineering and Technology","volume":"29 ","pages":"Article 101096"},"PeriodicalIF":6.5,"publicationDate":"2025-10-20","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145363607","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-10-17DOI: 10.1016/j.clet.2025.101100
Khaled M. Alawasa , Rashid S. AlAbri , Said Al-Jabri , Pallvee Bhatnagar
Numerous photovoltaic plants have been established in semi-arid regions to harness the abundant sunlight available for solar energy adaptation. However, the electrical performance of these installations is adversely affected by two critical ecological factors: high temperatures and dust accumulation. This study evaluates the impact of dust from five cities in Oman—Buraimi, Ibri, Nizwa, Saham, and Samail—on PV performance. Dust samples were collected and uniformly applied at different densities (12.24 g/m2, 24.4 g/m2, and 48.97 g/m2) to a single PV panel at a hybrid testing station near Sultan Qaboos University. Electrical parameters such as power output, voltage, and current were measured. Additional dust characterization was performed using X-ray fluorescence (XRF) to determine chemical composition and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to analyze particle size and morphology. Ibri exhibited the largest drop in efficiency (6.727 %), followed by Nizwa (5.576 %), Saham (5.315 %), and Buraimi (3.441 %), while Samail showed the lowest impact (2.04 %). Iron oxide and silicon dioxide were found to be the dominant components, with iron oxide contributing to light scattering losses due to its higher refractive index. The results confirm that dust buildup significantly reduces PV efficiency, depending on particle density, composition, and morphology.
{"title":"Comprehensive assessment of dust accumulation patterns and their effects on photovoltaic plants in semi-arid environments","authors":"Khaled M. Alawasa , Rashid S. AlAbri , Said Al-Jabri , Pallvee Bhatnagar","doi":"10.1016/j.clet.2025.101100","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.clet.2025.101100","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Numerous photovoltaic plants have been established in semi-arid regions to harness the abundant sunlight available for solar energy adaptation. However, the electrical performance of these installations is adversely affected by two critical ecological factors: high temperatures and dust accumulation. This study evaluates the impact of dust from five cities in Oman—Buraimi, Ibri, Nizwa, Saham, and Samail—on PV performance. Dust samples were collected and uniformly applied at different densities (12.24 g/m<sup>2</sup>, 24.4 g/m<sup>2</sup>, and 48.97 g/m<sup>2</sup>) to a single PV panel at a hybrid testing station near Sultan Qaboos University. Electrical parameters such as power output, voltage, and current were measured. Additional dust characterization was performed using X-ray fluorescence (XRF) to determine chemical composition and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to analyze particle size and morphology. Ibri exhibited the largest drop in efficiency (6.727 %), followed by Nizwa (5.576 %), Saham (5.315 %), and Buraimi (3.441 %), while Samail showed the lowest impact (2.04 %). Iron oxide and silicon dioxide were found to be the dominant components, with iron oxide contributing to light scattering losses due to its higher refractive index. The results confirm that dust buildup significantly reduces PV efficiency, depending on particle density, composition, and morphology.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34618,"journal":{"name":"Cleaner Engineering and Technology","volume":"29 ","pages":"Article 101100"},"PeriodicalIF":6.5,"publicationDate":"2025-10-17","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145417116","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-10-17DOI: 10.1016/j.clet.2025.101102
Swathi Mukundan , Lennie Foster , Sharon Henson , Kathryn North , Vivien Chow
This study examines the role of postdoctoral researchers, an often-overlooked segment of the UK workforce, in addressing high-level skill shortages in industries pursuing net-zero targets. A series of qualitative focus groups with industry stakeholders captures their perceptions of the suitability of postdoctoral researchers to enter the workforce, particularly regarding the technical, interdisciplinary, leadership, and communication capabilities essential for sustainable innovation. While our findings reveal a broad willingness, driven by demand, among industry stakeholders to employ postdoctoral researchers, they highlight persistent misalignments between academic training pathways and the broader skill sets required by industry as the primary barrier to implementation. The study provides practical insights into strengthening academic-industry collaboration, advancing work-integrated learning, and reconfiguring postdoctoral development to meet sectoral needs. By situating postdoctoral talent within a broader workforce strategy, this research contributes to ongoing debates on aligning research careers with net-zero transitions and building a future-ready, high-skill green economy.
{"title":"Aligning postdoctoral talent with net-zero skills demands: Insights from industry stakeholders in the UK","authors":"Swathi Mukundan , Lennie Foster , Sharon Henson , Kathryn North , Vivien Chow","doi":"10.1016/j.clet.2025.101102","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.clet.2025.101102","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This study examines the role of postdoctoral researchers, an often-overlooked segment of the UK workforce, in addressing high-level skill shortages in industries pursuing net-zero targets. A series of qualitative focus groups with industry stakeholders captures their perceptions of the suitability of postdoctoral researchers to enter the workforce, particularly regarding the technical, interdisciplinary, leadership, and communication capabilities essential for sustainable innovation. While our findings reveal a broad willingness, driven by demand, among industry stakeholders to employ postdoctoral researchers, they highlight persistent misalignments between academic training pathways and the broader skill sets required by industry as the primary barrier to implementation. The study provides practical insights into strengthening academic-industry collaboration, advancing work-integrated learning, and reconfiguring postdoctoral development to meet sectoral needs. By situating postdoctoral talent within a broader workforce strategy, this research contributes to ongoing debates on aligning research careers with net-zero transitions and building a future-ready, high-skill green economy.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34618,"journal":{"name":"Cleaner Engineering and Technology","volume":"29 ","pages":"Article 101102"},"PeriodicalIF":6.5,"publicationDate":"2025-10-17","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145363077","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-10-17DOI: 10.1016/j.clet.2025.101099
Matevž Pušnik, Boris Sučić, Matjaž Česen, Fouad Al-Mansour, Stane Merše
Addressing GHG emissions in industrial sectors is crucial for developed nations' energy and environmental policies. European countries use diverse strategies to mitigate industrial GHG impacts, with energy models evaluating national objectives and supporting policy implementation. A new hybrid bottom-up technology-oriented simulation model has been developed for Slovenia's industrial sector, focusing on energy-intensive industries like paper, metal, chemical, and cement production. This model, linked with the macroeconomic GEM model, assesses the impacts of GHG reduction measures on the national economy. This paper introduces the Reference Energy System model for the industrial sector REES SLO, aiding Slovenia's NECP update. It details input parameters, model structure, proposed measures, peculiarities of energy-intensive industries, and calculation results. The findings indicate that decarbonizing Slovenia's industrial sector is feasible but demands immediate policy intervention, substantial investments, and a collaborative approach among stakeholders. Advanced technologies such as carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS), hydrogen-based solutions, and enhanced energy efficiency measures are essential components of this transition. The integration of renewable energy sources (RES) and circular economy principles further strengthens pathways toward sustainability. The REES IND model underscores the importance of aligning industrial decarbonization strategies with broader economic and environmental objectives. It provides a comprehensive framework for policymakers to evaluate the effectiveness of proposed measures and their long-term impacts. Achieving these goals requires a phased approach, beginning with energy efficiency improvements and progressing to structural changes and advanced technologies. The model's insights pave the way for sustainable industrial transformation, aligning Slovenia's industrial sector with national and European Union climate objectives.
{"title":"Scenario-based modelling of industrial energy demand and GHG emissions: A 2050 outlook for Slovenia","authors":"Matevž Pušnik, Boris Sučić, Matjaž Česen, Fouad Al-Mansour, Stane Merše","doi":"10.1016/j.clet.2025.101099","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.clet.2025.101099","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Addressing GHG emissions in industrial sectors is crucial for developed nations' energy and environmental policies. European countries use diverse strategies to mitigate industrial GHG impacts, with energy models evaluating national objectives and supporting policy implementation. A new hybrid bottom-up technology-oriented simulation model has been developed for Slovenia's industrial sector, focusing on energy-intensive industries like paper, metal, chemical, and cement production. This model, linked with the macroeconomic GEM model, assesses the impacts of GHG reduction measures on the national economy. This paper introduces the Reference Energy System model for the industrial sector REES SLO, aiding Slovenia's NECP update. It details input parameters, model structure, proposed measures, peculiarities of energy-intensive industries, and calculation results. The findings indicate that decarbonizing Slovenia's industrial sector is feasible but demands immediate policy intervention, substantial investments, and a collaborative approach among stakeholders. Advanced technologies such as carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS), hydrogen-based solutions, and enhanced energy efficiency measures are essential components of this transition. The integration of renewable energy sources (RES) and circular economy principles further strengthens pathways toward sustainability. The REES IND model underscores the importance of aligning industrial decarbonization strategies with broader economic and environmental objectives. It provides a comprehensive framework for policymakers to evaluate the effectiveness of proposed measures and their long-term impacts. Achieving these goals requires a phased approach, beginning with energy efficiency improvements and progressing to structural changes and advanced technologies. The model's insights pave the way for sustainable industrial transformation, aligning Slovenia's industrial sector with national and European Union climate objectives.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34618,"journal":{"name":"Cleaner Engineering and Technology","volume":"29 ","pages":"Article 101099"},"PeriodicalIF":6.5,"publicationDate":"2025-10-17","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145363608","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-10-16DOI: 10.1016/j.clet.2025.101091
Nourah Alkaabi , Ahmad Mayyas , Elie Azar
The growing global demand for energy and the environmental impact of fossil fuel-based electricity generation have accelerated the adoption of renewable energy solutions, with photovoltaic (PV) systems playing a pivotal role. However, their successful integration is often challenged by uncertainty in building energy use, which can vary widely depending on how buildings are operated. This study examines the impact of various energy consumption patterns on the performance and cost-effectiveness of photovoltaic (PV) systems in three types of commercial buildings in Abu Dhabi, UAE: a hotel, a medium-sized office, and a small office. Using advanced simulation tools (EnergyPlus and SAM), 27 different scenarios were analyzed based on three user behavior profiles: energy-saving (Austere), typical (Baseline), and energy-intensive (Wasteful). The results show a wide range in energy demand, from 11.4 GWh to 21.18 GWh per year—an increase of 86 % between the most and least efficient profiles. The Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE) also varied, rising from 18.4 to 21.5 ¢/kWh under less efficient conditions, resulting in a 17 % increase. These findings suggest that relying solely on PV may not be sufficient for high-consumption buildings and that poor energy practices can significantly increase system costs, even in smaller buildings. Notably, the lowest LCOE is achieved in a mixed-demand scenario that combines a Baseline hotel, a Wasteful medium office, and an Austere small office, underscoring the strategic value of targeted demand management across building types to minimize system-wide costs. The scenario-based modeling approach enables realistic assessment of PV system cost-effectiveness under variable operational behaviors, offering more actionable insights than fixed-demand models.
{"title":"Photovoltaic system design under uncertain building operation profiles: A techno-economic analysis in an extreme hot climate","authors":"Nourah Alkaabi , Ahmad Mayyas , Elie Azar","doi":"10.1016/j.clet.2025.101091","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.clet.2025.101091","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The growing global demand for energy and the environmental impact of fossil fuel-based electricity generation have accelerated the adoption of renewable energy solutions, with photovoltaic (PV) systems playing a pivotal role. However, their successful integration is often challenged by uncertainty in building energy use, which can vary widely depending on how buildings are operated. This study examines the impact of various energy consumption patterns on the performance and cost-effectiveness of photovoltaic (PV) systems in three types of commercial buildings in Abu Dhabi, UAE: a hotel, a medium-sized office, and a small office. Using advanced simulation tools (EnergyPlus and SAM), 27 different scenarios were analyzed based on three user behavior profiles: energy-saving (Austere), typical (Baseline), and energy-intensive (Wasteful). The results show a wide range in energy demand, from 11.4 GWh to 21.18 GWh per year—an increase of 86 % between the most and least efficient profiles. The Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE) also varied, rising from 18.4 to 21.5 ¢/kWh under less efficient conditions, resulting in a 17 % increase. These findings suggest that relying solely on PV may not be sufficient for high-consumption buildings and that poor energy practices can significantly increase system costs, even in smaller buildings. Notably, the lowest LCOE is achieved in a mixed-demand scenario that combines a Baseline hotel, a Wasteful medium office, and an Austere small office, underscoring the strategic value of targeted demand management across building types to minimize system-wide costs. The scenario-based modeling approach enables realistic assessment of PV system cost-effectiveness under variable operational behaviors, offering more actionable insights than fixed-demand models.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34618,"journal":{"name":"Cleaner Engineering and Technology","volume":"29 ","pages":"Article 101091"},"PeriodicalIF":6.5,"publicationDate":"2025-10-16","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145325213","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-10-15DOI: 10.1016/j.clet.2025.101101
Andrés Mauricio Oviedo Pinzón, Vladimir Rafael Melian Cobas
This paper presents the optimal sizing of a microgrid that combines hybrid photovoltaic and Organic Rankine Cycle systems, along with either lead-acid or lithium-ion batteries. The optimization, employing the Particle Swarm Optimization technique, aims to minimize the levelized cost of energy consumed by Matias Cardoso town, located in northern Minas Gerais, Brazil, while maintaining a loss of power supply probability below 1 %. The paper presents technical and economic models for all microgrid components. It also details the particle swarm optimization parameter settings and analyzes the impact of population size variations optimization algorithm's performance. The base case optimal sizing points to a microgrid with a levelized cost of energy of 0.5319 R$/kWh using lithium-ion batteries. Lead-acid batteries were outperformed economically by the lithium-ion ones, due to their longer lifespan. Results also indicate that the microgrid's economic performance greatly depends on the considered discount rate.
{"title":"Sizing a PV/battery/ORC isolated hybrid microgrid using particle swarm optimization: A case study in Brazil","authors":"Andrés Mauricio Oviedo Pinzón, Vladimir Rafael Melian Cobas","doi":"10.1016/j.clet.2025.101101","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.clet.2025.101101","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This paper presents the optimal sizing of a microgrid that combines hybrid photovoltaic and Organic Rankine Cycle systems, along with either lead-acid or lithium-ion batteries. The optimization, employing the Particle Swarm Optimization technique, aims to minimize the levelized cost of energy consumed by Matias Cardoso town, located in northern Minas Gerais, Brazil, while maintaining a loss of power supply probability below 1 %. The paper presents technical and economic models for all microgrid components. It also details the particle swarm optimization parameter settings and analyzes the impact of population size variations optimization algorithm's performance. The base case optimal sizing points to a microgrid with a levelized cost of energy of 0.5319 R$/kWh using lithium-ion batteries. Lead-acid batteries were outperformed economically by the lithium-ion ones, due to their longer lifespan. Results also indicate that the microgrid's economic performance greatly depends on the considered discount rate.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34618,"journal":{"name":"Cleaner Engineering and Technology","volume":"29 ","pages":"Article 101101"},"PeriodicalIF":6.5,"publicationDate":"2025-10-15","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145325212","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
This study presents an in-depth evaluation of an innovative circulating mixing method for backfilling boreholes after the removal of existing piles, particularly in urban construction projects where geotechnical stability is critical. Uniform backfill is essential to ensure the structural integrity and long-term performance of newly constructed infrastructure, especially in areas prone to seismic activity. The circulating mixing method involves injecting and circulating backfill material within the boreholes to achieve improved homogeneity throughout the borehole depth. This method was rigorously evaluated through model tests, field experiments, and advanced numerical simulations using the Moving Particle Semi-Implicit (MPS) method within a Computer-Aided Engineering (CAE) framework. The MPS-CAE analysis successfully simulated the complex mixing process, and the results showed strong agreement with the empirical data obtained from the field tests. These results demonstrated a significant improvement in backfill uniformity and a notable reduction in strength variation throughout the borehole depth, addressing critical geotechnical challenges such as surface settlement and structural tilting while promoting sustainable urban development. The field tests confirmed the method's ability to optimize backfill distribution, providing practical and environmentally responsible solutions for real-world geotechnical applications. In addition, the MPS-CAE simulations provided valuable insights for optimizing process parameters and improving geotechnical quality control, contributing to more sustainable construction practices. The integration of numerical simulation and innovative engineering techniques presented in this research contributes to improving the efficiency, safety, durability, and sustainability of urban redevelopment projects, especially in disaster-prone regions. By providing a robust and sustainable approach to borehole backfilling, this study lays the foundation for further development of more effective, reliable, and environmentally friendly backfilling methods. The research outcomes have the potential to shape the future of sustainable geotechnical engineering, promoting resource efficiency, reducing waste, and minimizing the carbon footprint of urban construction projects. This innovative method offers a pathway to improved geotechnical performance in urban infrastructure development.
{"title":"Sustainable approach to urban pile removal through evaluation of innovative circulating mixing for urban infrastructure renewal","authors":"Shinya Inazumi , Shinichi Hamaguchi , Supakij Nontananandh","doi":"10.1016/j.clet.2025.101103","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.clet.2025.101103","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This study presents an in-depth evaluation of an innovative circulating mixing method for backfilling boreholes after the removal of existing piles, particularly in urban construction projects where geotechnical stability is critical. Uniform backfill is essential to ensure the structural integrity and long-term performance of newly constructed infrastructure, especially in areas prone to seismic activity. The circulating mixing method involves injecting and circulating backfill material within the boreholes to achieve improved homogeneity throughout the borehole depth. This method was rigorously evaluated through model tests, field experiments, and advanced numerical simulations using the Moving Particle Semi-Implicit (MPS) method within a Computer-Aided Engineering (CAE) framework. The MPS-CAE analysis successfully simulated the complex mixing process, and the results showed strong agreement with the empirical data obtained from the field tests. These results demonstrated a significant improvement in backfill uniformity and a notable reduction in strength variation throughout the borehole depth, addressing critical geotechnical challenges such as surface settlement and structural tilting while promoting sustainable urban development. The field tests confirmed the method's ability to optimize backfill distribution, providing practical and environmentally responsible solutions for real-world geotechnical applications. In addition, the MPS-CAE simulations provided valuable insights for optimizing process parameters and improving geotechnical quality control, contributing to more sustainable construction practices. The integration of numerical simulation and innovative engineering techniques presented in this research contributes to improving the efficiency, safety, durability, and sustainability of urban redevelopment projects, especially in disaster-prone regions. By providing a robust and sustainable approach to borehole backfilling, this study lays the foundation for further development of more effective, reliable, and environmentally friendly backfilling methods. The research outcomes have the potential to shape the future of sustainable geotechnical engineering, promoting resource efficiency, reducing waste, and minimizing the carbon footprint of urban construction projects. This innovative method offers a pathway to improved geotechnical performance in urban infrastructure development.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34618,"journal":{"name":"Cleaner Engineering and Technology","volume":"29 ","pages":"Article 101103"},"PeriodicalIF":6.5,"publicationDate":"2025-10-15","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145363078","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Guaranteeing sustainable energy is crucial to meet the rising energy needs driven by population growth. In this study, the correlation and trend between the share of renewable energy usage, a key indicator of energy sustainability, the energy tax factor, and eco-innovations, assessed through the ratio of patents in environmental technologies and the proportion of total national spending on R&D relative to GDP, have been examined using a regression model from 2004 to 2022 across four regions of the European Union: North, West, East, and South. This is to determine the impact of various solutions and policies on energy sustainability, given its increasing importance in recent years. The findings indicate that Sweden, located in Northern Europe, possesses the highest proportion of renewable energy at an average of 50.29 percent. In contrast, Malta, situated in Southern Europe, has the lowest share, averaging at 4.59 percent. The factors of energy taxation, environmental patents, and research and development exhibit the strongest positive correlations with the energy sustainability index in Belgium, with correlations of 0.90, 0.64, and 0.97, respectively. Among the regression models presented for all EU countries, the models presented in the Czech Republic in Eastern Europe and Belgium and Germany in Western Europe have the lowest error with RMSE of 0.394, 0.467 and 0.540 percent, respectively, which is due to the high correlation between their data. Lastly, it can be said that the current study's methodology can be applied to other nations as well.
{"title":"Impact of energy taxes and eco-innovation on sustainable energy markets","authors":"Shayan Mohammaddini , Amirali Saifoddin , Amin Zahedi , Mahmood Abdoos , Ahmad Hajinezhad","doi":"10.1016/j.clet.2025.101097","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.clet.2025.101097","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Guaranteeing sustainable energy is crucial to meet the rising energy needs driven by population growth. In this study, the correlation and trend between the share of renewable energy usage, a key indicator of energy sustainability, the energy tax factor, and eco-innovations, assessed through the ratio of patents in environmental technologies and the proportion of total national spending on R&D relative to GDP, have been examined using a regression model from 2004 to 2022 across four regions of the European Union: North, West, East, and South. This is to determine the impact of various solutions and policies on energy sustainability, given its increasing importance in recent years. The findings indicate that Sweden, located in Northern Europe, possesses the highest proportion of renewable energy at an average of 50.29 percent. In contrast, Malta, situated in Southern Europe, has the lowest share, averaging at 4.59 percent. The factors of energy taxation, environmental patents, and research and development exhibit the strongest positive correlations with the energy sustainability index in Belgium, with correlations of 0.90, 0.64, and 0.97, respectively. Among the regression models presented for all EU countries, the models presented in the Czech Republic in Eastern Europe and Belgium and Germany in Western Europe have the lowest error with RMSE of 0.394, 0.467 and 0.540 percent, respectively, which is due to the high correlation between their data. Lastly, it can be said that the current study's methodology can be applied to other nations as well.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34618,"journal":{"name":"Cleaner Engineering and Technology","volume":"29 ","pages":"Article 101097"},"PeriodicalIF":6.5,"publicationDate":"2025-10-14","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145363081","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
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