Examining the impact of Australia’s ‘Direct Action’ policy on renewable energy, fossil fuel energy, and foreign direct investment (FDI), researchers have unveiled critical insights into the nation’s environmental landscape.
Amidst the urgent climate change and energy shortage concerns, this study tackles the complex challenge of achieving sustainable development goals in the face of uncertain low-carbon building transformation paths and unclear energy/carbon trading strategies. Employing a comprehensive approach, the research reviews integrated techniques for low-carbon building transition, including energy conservation, clean energy adoption, demand response, and smart EV integration. The study also examines energy/carbon flows and trading within building systems and analyzes global decarbonization roadmaps.
Introducing the innovative concept of Carbon Storage (CS)-Factor, the research explores how urban planning can improve carbon neutrality through maintaining or restoring carbon storage in these new areas, with a specific focus on wooden construction. The study examines the carbon storage potential of future residential developments in the Uusimaa region, Finland, between 2022 and 2050.
Discover the roadmap to achieving net zero carbon built environments in Australia. The research paper lays the critical principles, targets, and pathways needed for a sustainable future. Balancing operational and embodied carbon considerations, the proposed approach aims for all new buildings and major renovations to achieve net zero operational carbon by 2030, with a phased reduction in embodied carbon quotas leading to net zero by 2040. The comprehensive strategy includes comparing and combining operational and embodied data, ensuring a holistic understanding of carbon emissions.
Despite global efforts, gaps persist in incentivizing the transition to energy-efficient homes. The study, encompassing policy evaluation and stakeholder feedback, sheds light on the critical hurdles. Notably, stakeholders highlighted the perceived upfront cost barrier, leading to a call for subsidies. Around 70% of surveyed stakeholders advocated for subsidies to overcome this obstacle.
In the pursuit of a more sustainable future, this study offers valuable insights into the realm of affordable housing and embodied energy reduction. By delving into the drivers, barriers, and techniques shaping the industry’s efforts, the research sheds light on the intricate balance between environmental consciousness and practicality.
Understanding public perceptions is crucial for the successful adoption of hydrogen as a clean energy alternative. Public poll data reveals that a significant percentage of the population holds neutral attitudes towards hydrogen technologies, highlighting the need for improved information and awareness campaigns. Socio-political acceptance, including trust in key stakeholders, plays a vital role in shaping public attitudes. Financial considerations and energy justice are also key factors in gaining market acceptance. By addressing these challenges and engaging communities, we can pave the way for a sustainable hydrogen-powered future.
In a study within the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), researchers examined the effects of transitioning to energy-efficient electrical appliances. The findings revealed a remarkable decrease in natural gas consumption, up to 50% for priority households switching hot water systems and 42% for non-priority households adopting Reverse Cycle Air Conditioners (RCACs). While grid electricity consumption experienced a moderate increase of approximately 20% for priority and 26% for non-priority households with RCACs, electric hot water system replacements led to an 11% and 13% rise in grid electricity use, respectively. Embracing renewable electricity targets, emissions witnessed a significant reduction, emphasizing the strides Aussie homes are making towards sustainability and a greener future.
An Australian research has provided optimised configurations of solar photovoltaic (SPV) and battery storage system (BSS) setups specifically designed for grid-connected households with electric vehicles (EVs). Through the integration of a 10-kW SPV system with a 10-kWh BSS, significant reductions in electricity costs have been achieved, dropping from 45.03 to 33.48 ¢/kWh under time-of-use pricing. Even households equipped with two EVs have reaped the benefits, enjoying an impressive net present cost (NPC) of $55,904, surpassing the $45,850 NPC attained with only one EV.
Electric Vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure is essential for EV adoption. The review highlights the need for transparent pricing, continued public support, and improved data accessibility. Standardised labelling and consumer protection can enhance customer experience, while subsidies and partnerships are crucial for infrastructure development. Gathering more data and understanding driver preferences will aid in future planning efforts.