This study compares composting and anaerobic digestion (AD) technologies for municipal solid waste (MSW) management in Greece using Life Cycle Assessment (LCA). It evaluates the energy and environmental performance of both technologies, with and without biogas recovery, employing three impact-assessment methods: ILCD 2011 Midpoint+, Eco-indicator 99 (E), and ReCiPe 2016 Endpoint (E). Modeling was performed in OpenLCA 2.5 using the Ecoinvent v3.9 database, following ISO 14040/44 standards. Results show that composting causes substantially higher environmental burdens than AD in all methods and categories. According to ILCD, composting scored 5.47 & times; 10-5 species & sdot;year for ecosystem damage versus 1.96 & times; 10-10 for AD. Humanhealth impacts were also higher for composting (9.66 & times; 10-3 DALY, ILCD; 7.37 & times; 10-3 DALY, ReCiPe). Under Eco-indicator 99 (E), AD with biogas utilization showed a slightly higher value only for the human-health endpoint, due to allocation and combustion-related emissions; however, this exception did not alter the overall environmental superiority of AD across methods and impact categories. Regarding energy balance, AD without energy recovery has a higher energy demand than composting; however, AD with biogas utilization becomes energy-positive, producing more electricity and heat than it consumes and achieving a negative energy footprint. Notably, even AD without biogas utilization generally outperformed composting in environmental terms, indicating that the enclosed anaerobic process itself provides substantial benefits beyond energy recovery. Overall, AD (particularly with biogas utilization) exhibits a markedly lower total environmental and energy footprint, underscoring its clear advantages and supporting its prioritization in sustainable waste management strategies in Greece.

The increasing demands in electrical load in combination with the high penetration of renewable energy sources have lead the load forecasting to be a difficult procedure. The conventionally means of load forecasting are not any more capable to predict the future load and new approaches are studied. These approaches include the machine learning and statistical methods through the use of multiple variable measurements. This paper aims to present the value of deep learning to the load forecasting procedure, the international standards applied in the field of smart grids and the design of a modern integrated Cloud – Internet of Things forecasting system for application at the Greek electrical transmission system.

This paper examines the effects of wildfires and smoke on power transmission and distribution networks through theoretical, modeling, and research evaluations from 1999 to 2025. A total of 102 relevant works are organized chronologically to demonstrate the evolution of research objectives over 27 years, highlighting an increased scientific interest in recent years due to the exacerbation of wildfires linked to climate change. The study categorizes works into six subject groups, emphasizing the need for advanced monitoring, modeling, and mitigation strategies. Essential factors, such as thermal stress due to climatic conditions, the impact of pollutants, and the utilization of unmanned aerial vehicles and sensor technologies, are analyzed to improve conductor performance assessment and the fire hardening of substations and emerging assets such as battery energy storage systems. The need of integrating wildfire risk management into power system resilience is highlighted, with frameworks guiding comprehensive evaluations. Wildfire mitigation strategies, including insulated conductors, fire-resistant equipment, and real-time monitoring systems, are crucial measures to minimize damage and ensure reliable power transmission. The findings endorse continued research to enhance preparedness and resilience against wildfire-related threats to power infrastructure.

Grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) systems inject nonsinusoidal currents into the grid at the point of their connection. The technology of the inverter utilized for the conversion of DC power into AC is directly associated with distortion characteristics. Even though pulse-width-modulated (PWM) converters generate considerably lower harmonic distortion than their predecessors, they are responsible for the emergence of a new power quality issue in distribution grids known as supraharmonics, which can cause problems such as overheating and malfunctions of equipment. PV systems are known sources of supraharmonics, but their impact has not yet been thoroughly researched. Due to the multitude of parameters affecting their performance, a more rigorous treatment is required compared to more common nonlinear devices. In this paper, emissions from a three-phase grid-connected PV system are examined by means of a dedicated simulation tool taking into account the specifics of inverter switching action without overly increasing computational cost. The impact of environmental parameters as well as factors affecting the switch control of the converter is investigated. The dependence of the supraharmonic emission of the PV system on the converter characteristics rather than environmental conditions is demonstrated. Furthermore, simulation studies on a network comprising the PV system and an additional supraharmonic-emitting system in simultaneous operation are conducted. Their combined effect on the distortion at the connection point of the network to the grid is assessed by means of a power flow-based approach, capable of quantifying interactions within this network. From the viewpoint of the grid, an increase of supraharmonic-related disturbance at low irradiance conditions is revealed.

As the global power industry evolves, transformer insulation systems face increasing challenges. The aging of cellulose insulation paper (cellulose-IP) at elevated temperatures significantly impacts its insulation properties and overall lifespan. To enhance the thermal aging resistance and industrial usability of cellulose-IP, this study employs hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN) along with three silane coupling agents (SCAs)-3-ammonopropyl- triethoxysilane (KH550), 3-glycidyloxypropyltrimethoxysi- lane (KH560), and 3-methacryloyloxypropyltrimethoxysilane (KH570)-to modified cellulose-IP. Upon evaluating the properties and simulation results of the modified cellulose-IP, KH550-hBN demonstrates superior properties and is selected for an accelerated thermal aging test lasting 60 days. The results indicate that KH550-hBN effectively mitigates the degradation of cellulose-IP. In the late aging stage, the mechanical properties of the modified cellulose-IP deteriorate more slowly than those of pure cellulose-IP. Additionally, thermal conductivity (TC) improves by 26.9%, while breakdown field strength increases by 12.1%. The introduction of KH550-hBN promotes the formation of a complete TC network within the cellulose matrix, increases the number of intermolecular hydrogen bonds, and introduces nanobarrier regions. These improvements enhance the interactions between the cellulose systems and effectively inhibit the generation and migration of polar derivatives during the aging process, resulting in a significant improvement in the longevity and stability of transformer internal insulation systems.

Photovoltaic (PV) technologies are developing rapidly as a result of their ability to reduce energy consumption from conventional sources as well as the growth of global energy expenditures. Nevertheless, several impact categories during the PV panel life cycle occur and some principal sectors are affected. These impact categories are assessed by applying life cycle analysis (LCA) techniques through various software programs, databases and methods. Such analyses of energy technologies are crucial, as they can reveal the occurrence of hazardous emissions at distinct life cycle stages. In the present paper, a PV panel impact assessment through life cycle analysis is carried out. More precisely, a combination of PV technologies—monocrystalline silicon (mono-Si), multicrystalline silicon (multi-Si), cadmium telluride (CdTe), copper indium gallium selenide (CIGS), amorphous silicon (a-Si), and ribbon silicon (ribbon-Si)—is studied, by means of a system configuration retrieved from the Global LCA Data Access (GLAD) network. The impact categories of ozone depletion, human toxicity, particulate matter, ionizing radiation, photochemical ozone formation, acidification, eutrophication, and ecotoxicity, as well as the sectors of human health, ecosystem quality, and environment, are assessed using the openLCA software, the ecoinvent database, the eco-indicator 99, IMPACT 2002+, ReCiPe, and TRACI methods.

Organic photovoltaic (OPV) technology, namely, organic solar cells (OSCs), have garnered attention as a sustainable and adaptable substitute for traditional silicon-based solar panels. Their lightweight construction, adaptability with various substrates, and capacity for low-energy production techniques make them formidable contenders for sustainable energy applications. Nonetheless, due to the swift advancement of OPV technology, there is increasing apprehension that existing life cycle assessment (LCA) studies may inadequately reflect their environmental consequences. This review aggregates and assesses LCA research to ascertain the extent to which existing studies accurately represent the genuine sustainability of OPVs. This paper conducts a comprehensive analysis of materials, manufacturing processes, device architecture, and end-of-life pathways, identifying methodological deficiencies, emphasizing critical environmental performance metrics, and examining how conceptual product design can improve environmental results. The results highlight the necessity for standardized, transparent LCA frameworks adapted to the changing OPV landscape.

Over the past two decades, the transition from conventional power networks to smart grids has accelerated, driven by advances in digital communication and intelligent control technologies. Smart grids integrate sensing devices, automated metering, and data-driven management systems, producing large volumes of heterogeneous information across all operational layers. This review examines 220 publications from the last twenty years, highlighting major research trends, classifying works by publication type, and identifying the most influential journals and conferences. It also summarizes the contribution of each reviewed work and categorizes the analytical methods and smart-grid-related topics addressed. Finally, the paper outlines emerging challenges and future research directions that can further enhance the role of big data analytics in next-generation smart grids.

The European Union is addressing climate and environmental challenges with a view to moving towards a climate-neutral continent by 2050. Its efforts are based on international agreements and the need for measures and initiatives taken by the European Parliament and the Council of the European Union, with the energy transition in various sectors as a key focus. The road transport sector is the most polluting factor for the environment, hence the urgent need to replace the fleet of cars with conventional engines by electric motors. In recent years, electromobility has become more popular in the preferences of EU citizens. The car manufacturers, in support of this effort, have focused their attention on producing more electric vehicles, limiting the number of cars that use conventional fuels. This paper tries to estimate the penetration of electric cars in the EU, the electric demand for charging them and the carbon emissions that will result from the existing energy mix. Common mathematical forecasting models will be used for these calculations. Afterwards, an attempt will be made to compare between an old publication and new data from this research, including data from COVID-19 and the war conflict between Russia and Ukraine. In addition, Monte Carlo analysis will be used for sensitivity analysis, enabling the reliability of the results. The results of the comparison show that the increasing penetration of electric cars in EU countries, with the existing energy mix, will lead to an increase in electricity demand resulting in an increase in atmospheric emissions, except in the case of the pandemic, where despite the expansion of electric vehicles and the existing energy mix, lower carbon emissions in the atmosphere are observed.

Electric power infrastructures are considered to be the most critical. The required monitoring of electricity networks is achieved using instrument transformers. The instrument transformer operating conditions must be kept steady, within safe limits. However, this entails comprehension of the several reasons that lead to failure. These reasons can introduce condition assessment monitoring techniques aiming to protect this type of electrical equipment and maybe contribute on their predictive maintenance. This paper describes the probable failures in high voltage instrument transformers with operating voltages of 150 kV and 400 kV, the rate and trend of failures as well as their basic sources. More specifically, this research has been applied for the 150 kV and 400 kV instrument transformers that are installed at the Hellenic Electricity Transmission Network. The results of this work will provide valuable insights about failure cause and operational life of measuring transformers in transmission networks allowing them to improve monitoring and resilience of the networks.

Modern electricity networks are facing significant challenges in terms of power quality due to the increasing integration of power electronics. Even though low order harmonic control has largely been achieved, the emergence of supraharmonics is becoming a new cause for concern. This topic has gained interest in the past decade since power quality issues have become important due to the proliferation of highly sensitive electrical and electronic equipment. This special case of harmonics is mainly due to the power electronic converters utilized in industrial as well as residential applications, including electromobility, motor drive systems, and photovoltaic installations. While the adverse effects of supraharmonics have been pointed out in numerous studies and intensive research is underway on the crucial subject of supraharmonic measurements, the parameters affecting their levels have not received adequate attention. We attempted to shed more light on this important issue in the specific case of a small grid-connected PV system. In particular, the supraharmonic emission levels of the system were investigated through experimental measurements, and useful conclusions on the impact of specific environmental factors were derived.

Furfural as an ageing product of cellulose paper can be detected by the furfural content in the oil. With the construction of green power grid, more and more power equipment adopts environmentally friendly insulating fluids. The investigation of the diffusion behaviors of furfural at different oil-paper interfaces can provide a basis for fault detection in power transformers. The liquid-solid interface diffusion behaviors of furfural in natural ester-cellulose paper and mineral oil-cellulose paper insulating systems are investigated by molecular dynamics simulation in this paper. Results show that the range of center-of-mass movement distances of furfural in mineral oil-cellulose paper is about 5 times that of natural ester-cellulose paper. The main reason for this is that the long-chain macromolecules composing the natural ester undergo curling in the extended flow. As polar molecules, natural ester can attract furfural, which is also a polar molecule. And the electrostatic potential mapping interval of furfural is about 4.4 times that of mineral oil, but 1.1 times that of natural ester, with which it overlaps more. These hinder the diffusion of furfural molecules in the natural ester-cellulose paper liquid-solid interface. This research provides theoretical support for the diffusion of furfural in the insulation systems of natural ester-cellulose paper and mineral oil-cellulose paper. It also provides useful guidance for fault detection in transformers using natural ester insulating fluids.

Life cycle assessment (LCA) is a method used to assess the environmental impact of a product or process throughout its entire life cycle, from raw material extraction to disposal. It involves four stages: goal and scope definition, inventory analysis, impact assessment, and interpretation. In the inventory analysis, material balances of the system are developed using specialized software, while the material-specific factors of greenhouse gas emissions and revenues are obtained from standardized sources. The impact assessment stage combines and evaluates the data from the inventory analysis, transforming it into environmental and health impact indicators. These indicators are then weighted based on their relevance to the study goals and stakeholder interests. The interpretation stage involves analyzing the results, drawing conclusions, explaining limitations, and making recommendations. A key aspect of LCA is the peer review process, which ensures the accuracy and transparency of the study findings. The case study of a waste-to-energy plant in Spain illustrates the application of LCA in waste management. The results show that waste-to-energy technology, when combined with material recovery, can significantly reduce environmental impacts and provide economic benefits.

Abstract Nano‐modified electrical insulating fluids are a promising new family of insulating oils with enhanced characteristics. They can significantly improve many properties, such as fire point, breakdown voltage, partial discharge inception voltage and thermal conductivity etc. However, nanoparticles have raised concerns about the possible harm to human health and the ecosystems, but the environmental impact of nano‐modified insulating oils is far more complicated than that. Following the recent research results on the stability of nano‐modified particles, the authors introduce environmental aspects that have not attracted attention so far, such as the possible loss of stability of the insulating oil, mechanical erosion problems in parts of the electrical transformer and problems in recycling processes that may turn waste nano‐modified insulating oils into an unwanted feed stock for recycling industries. An improved method for the environmental risk assessment (RA) of nano‐modified insulating oils, based on an existing model for the RA of nanoparticles, is proposed. The authors reflect the complicated nature of the nanoliquids, mainly due to the stability of the element, which seems to have a paramount role on their environmental impact and is neglected by the current approach in RA.

Biomethane is a multipurpose and essential energy carrier in the transition toward sustainable development. Biogas to biomethane is a well-proven technology with high benefits for the environment and the economy. Yet, financial barriers still limit the deployment of its full potential. This chapter briefly introduces the main techno-economic aspects from biogas production to biomethane final use. A comprehensive discussion of capital and operational expenditures is presented based on updated data from international agencies and scientific publications. Based on the data gathered, a case study was carried out to assess the annual cost of biomethane production for gas grid injection and vehicle fuel. Finally, the role of incentives and the main challenges to overcome are presented.

It is a fact that worldwide energy reserves are constantly decreasing. Simultaneously, climate change poses a strong threat to our planet’s future. Therefore, it is imperative to turn to sustainable and environmentally friendly solutions, such as renewable energy sources. One of the renewable energy sources is wind energy, which has important characteristics and advantages and presents itself as a prominent solution to the issue that has arisen. The production of energy via wind is done by using wind turbines. However, disposing of wind turbines in landfills or incineration can cause serious health and environmental problems. As a result, recycling of wind turbines is a realistic approach for the renewable energy sector to assure the long-term sustainability. Based on the above, this work investigated recycling methods and relevant operations. In particular, it includes a concise review on the topic and a data analysis of previously unpublished data regarding wind turbines installed in Greece (data obtained from Greek Center for Renewable Energy Sources (CRES)), which were meticulously analyzed, offering the main findings of this scientific venture. The factors that contribute to the sustainability of wind turbines (whether small or large power) were explored. According to the results, the main recyclable materials are concrete (79.86