• Energy Research
• 16. Peace & justice close

This research presents a 100% renewable energy (RE) scenario by 2050 with a high share of electric vehicles on the grid (V2G) developed in Ecuador with the support of the EnergyPLAN analysis tool. Hour-by-hour data iterations were performed to determine solutions among various features, including energy storage, V2G connections that spanned the distribution system, and long-term evaluation. The high participation in V2G connections keeps the electrical system available; meanwhile, the high proportions of variable renewable energy are the pillar of the joint electrical system. The layout of the sustainable mobility scenario and the high V2G participation maintain the balance of the electrical system during most of the day, simplifying the storage equipment requirements. Consequently, the influence of V2G systems on storage is a significant result that must be considered in the energy transition that Ecuador is developing in the long term. The stored electricity will not only serve as storage for future grid use. Additionally, the V2G batteries serve as a buffer between generation from diversified renewable sources and the end-use stage.

Abstract This paper describes the energy sector related to public lighting systems in Ecuador. It presents, in an orderly and succinct manner, the legal framework that governs this service and its model which includes the following aspects: its current structure, energy supply policies, competencies, tariff and subsidy specifications, service policies, planning, system modernization and related environmental aspects centering on the evolution and new law of the electricity sector. Nowadays, 5.56% of the energy generated in Ecuador is destined to the public lighting service. In 2019, 1382.14 GWh were destined to public lighting. For the next ten years, according to the Electricity Master Plan, an increase of 534,076 new points of light is foreseen. In the short term, there is no defined plan to replace the systems with sodium lights to LED technology lights that will allow not only to accomplish the state energy efficiency policies, but also to reduce the energy consumption. The legal framework and the exposed data allow the different stakeholders to make informed intervention decisions.

This article examines the main market barriers that hamper the introduction of geothermal energy at local, national, and European levels as well as the necessary steps that need to be taken to eradicate them, thus contributing to the general use of this renewable source of energy. The novelty of this study lies in the detailed description of four different scenarios: the European Union (EU), Spain, the Canary Islands, and the agricultural sector for the three types of geothermal energies and their uses: Low-enthalpy or thermal uses, high-enthalpy or electrical uses and renewable energy mix. The results are expected to differ in terms of level of introduction, barriers, and measures to be taken. We have selected Spain within the European context due to its meagre 0.1% geothermal market share in primary demand for renewable energy, and the Canary Islands in particular, given its insular nature. We have likewise picked the agricultural sector due to its underdevelopment as far as renewable energies are concerned, including geothermal energy.

Abstract The 2010 Earthquake in Haiti caused catastrophic damage to the metropolitan area of Port au Prince. The earthquake destroyed approximately 105,000 homes, causing more than 2.3 million people to live as Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs). Today, more than 1.3 million people still live in tents. Low cost buildings can provide a housing solution for these people. This paper proposes a low cost building solution intended for hot climates, using concrete as the only material. Due to the lack of facilities at these locations, no conventional energy or cooling systems can be installed; thus, only passive cooling technologies can be used to increase thermal comfort. A low cost cool roof and combined natural ventilation is proposed, and simulations show an improvement of 16% in the thermal conditions inside the building. The simulation is performed using the software package EnergyPlus and shows that cool roofs can be a good solution for improving living conditions in low cost houses for IDPs.