The Role of the Energy Cooperatives in the Decarbonization Process : Scientific Conference
The Role of the Energy Cooperatives in the Decarbonization Process : Scientific Conference
Contributor(s): Vladimir Zinoviev (Editor), Valerio Temperini (Editor), Dimiter S. Ialnazov (Editor), Dimitrina Koeva (Editor), Marco Giuliani (Editor), Bryan Willson (Editor), Lucia Pizzichini (Editor)
Subject(s): Politics / Political Sciences, Politics, Economy, Supranational / Global Economy, Business Economy / Management, Energy and Environmental Studies, Environmental and Energy policy, Green Transformation
Published by: Университет за национално и световно стопанство (УНСС)
Keywords: energy cooperatives; energy transformation; decarbonization; digital energy
Summary/Abstract: The coming decades are expected to be critical for the transformation of the energy system worldwide and the energy communities have the potential to be an integral part of the transition towards decarbonisation. In some European countries, such as Italy, active energy communities have been in place for years, while in Bulgaria they have yet to develop. This in turn provides opportunities for investment and business niches. In this context, it is important to explore the experience of Italy, USA and other countries having this type of working structures for years.
- Print-ISBN-13: 978-619-232-883-2
- Page Count: 174
- Publication Year: 2024
- Language: English
Innovation Policy Copes to Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive: An Interaction Approach
Innovation Policy Copes to Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive: An Interaction Approach
(Innovation Policy Copes to Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive: An Interaction Approach)
- Author(s):Alessandro Cinti, Nicole Lillini
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Politics, Social Sciences, Economy, Business Economy / Management, Energy and Environmental Studies, Sociology, Environmental and Energy policy, Political Ecology, EU-Approach / EU-Accession / EU-Development, Green Transformation
- Page Range:5-28
- No. of Pages:24
- Keywords:CSDDD; innovation policy; sustainability
- Summary/Abstract:This paper explores the implications of the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD), adopted at first reading by the European Parliament on 24 April 2024, for fostering innovation within businesses operating in the European Union, particularly those engaged in green energy transitions and decarbonisation strategies. The CSDDD introduces stringent requirements for companies to conduct due diligence on environmental sustainability, including the certification of green supply chains. These requirements align with internationally recognised frameworks, such as the OECD Due Diligence Guidance for Responsible Business Conduct and sectoral guidance, which provide practical steps for companies to identify, prevent, mitigate, and account for potential impacts across their operations, supply chains, and business relationships. The concept of due diligence is further embedded in the recommendations of the International Labour Organization’s (ILO) Tripartite Declaration of Principles concerning Multinational Enterprises and Social Policy. Through a narrative, exploratory- qualitative approach, this study investigates the effect of these regulations on innovation processes, using the Alpha company as a single case study. Semi-structured interviews with Alpha’s managers reveal how the company integrates sustainability and innovation, with a particular focus on strategies relevant to energy cooperatives, underscoring the critical role of both internal and external interactions. The findings advance theoretical models that link sustainability regulations with innovation, emphasising the significance of this relationship for both managerial practices and policy formulation within the context of energy cooperatives and green energy transitions.
Community Benefits of Energy Cooperatives
Community Benefits of Energy Cooperatives
(Community Benefits of Energy Cooperatives)
- Author(s):Georgi Samandov
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Politics, Economy, National Economy, Business Economy / Management, Energy and Environmental Studies, Environmental and Energy policy, Green Transformation
- Page Range:29-42
- No. of Pages:14
- Keywords:low-carbon energy; green deal; energy cooperatives
- Summary/Abstract:The processes in Europe and entire World in the last decade have shown us the need of more unification and development of a high-tech, low-carbon and independent energy sector. As a part of a European Union Bulgaria share the common target for secure energy sector, based on a Green Deal target. The Bulgarian authorities have a clear vision, including a timeline for key transition steps towards the 2030 climate and energy targets and towards the 2050 climate neutrality target. Bulgaria has performed reforms which will secure reliable, transparent and competitive energy market environment. One of the most reforms is the involving of the energy communities. They will help to the society to use the own produced energy proper by the implementation of new hi-tech technologies into the existing grid.
Energy Cooperatives, Regulatory Hurdles and Possible Financial Models – EU – Bulgarian Context
Energy Cooperatives, Regulatory Hurdles and Possible Financial Models – EU – Bulgarian Context
(Energy Cooperatives, Regulatory Hurdles and Possible Financial Models – EU – Bulgarian Context)
- Author(s):Nadya Parpulova
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Politics, Economy, Business Economy / Management, Energy and Environmental Studies, Environmental and Energy policy, EU-Approach / EU-Accession / EU-Development
- Page Range:43-51
- No. of Pages:9
- Keywords:energy cooperatives; legal framework; renewable energy; energy decentralization;
- Summary/Abstract:The European energy market is undergoing a fundamental change, witnessing the emergence of innovative technologies and novel business models, which require the organizational and institutional transformation of the current energy system. Energy Communities (ECs) are exemplary for this transformation and are legally defined by the European Commission as entities that can take part in any stage of the energy supply chain ranging from energy generation, oversupply, to the provision of other energy services (e.g. aggregation, storage, electric mobility) while fulfilling a social and environmental purpose. Energy Communities (ECs) play a crucial role in the energy transformation by promoting decentralized, sustainable, and community-driven energy initiatives. Bulgaria, like many other countries, lacks a specific legal framework tailored to energy cooperatives, making it difficult for them to operate within existing regulations. Complex licensing procedures are in place. Obtaining licenses for energy production and distribution can be complicated and time-consuming, often requiring navigation through multiple bureaucratic layers. High connection costs are also a hurdle. Regulations usually favor large energy producers, making it difficult for smaller cooperatives to compete equally. Energy Communities are pivotal in driving the energy transformation by fostering local, sustainable, and community-focused energy solutions. The European Commission's legal framework supports their integration into the energy market, enabling them to participate across the energy supply chain and contribute significantly to the EU's energy and climate goals.
On The Regulatory Hurdles of the Energy Communities
On The Regulatory Hurdles of the Energy Communities
(On The Regulatory Hurdles of the Energy Communities)
- Author(s):Slavtcho Neykov
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Politics, Economy, Business Economy / Management, Energy and Environmental Studies, Environmental and Energy policy, Green Transformation
- Page Range:52-65
- No. of Pages:14
- Keywords:energy policy; green deal; renewable energy communities; citizen energy communities
- Summary/Abstract:The decarbonization process of the energy sector is providing new and innovative solutions. The energy communities for this reason become more attractive both from practical and theoretical side. The regulatory changes in this process request special attention and analysis in medium- and long-term perspective. The perspectives for changing the legacy energy system with a new one, based on decentralized, smart model, are requesting strategic evaluation both from technical-economic and legal point of view.
Тhe Economic Potential of the Vehicle Grid Technology in Bulgaria
Тhe Economic Potential of the Vehicle Grid Technology in Bulgaria
(Тhe Economic Potential of the Vehicle Grid Technology in Bulgaria)
- Author(s):Silviya Nikolova
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Politics, Economy, National Economy, Business Economy / Management, Energy and Environmental Studies, Environmental and Energy policy, Transport / Logistics, Green Transformation
- Page Range:66-80
- No. of Pages:15
- Keywords:electric mobility; charging infrastructure; V2G
- Summary/Abstract:It is difficult to define in a few words all the developments that have brought about humanity's ability in the 21st century to harness one source of energy and transform it into another, for the sole purpose of making the world smaller. It has been 150 years since mankind used scientific advances to achieve one of the most important requirements of modern society: rationing, stock transfer, and market diversification. The invention of the automobile and its natural integration with society not only changed the world but also simplified its existence to a degree unthinkable in previous civilizations. The modern personal mobility device commonly referred to as the “automobile” has become more than just a means of transportation and now symbolizes the coupling of the latest technological advances with everyday life. Not far from this term, an electric-driven, motor-less vehicle has emerged. This vehicle brought with it the advantages of rechargeable electric toys: clean, noiseless, smoke-free, environmentally safe, and the ability to convert potential difference into electric current for mobility purposes. Furthermore, the stored electrical energy moves in the required direction according to human commands. It is the physical reallocation of power and its direction of use from both sides: from the power grid to the user and from the user to the power grid. Especially in the automotive industry, vehicle-to-grid technology represents the final coupling mechanism between the availability of the conventional power grid and motorized energy transfer. It opens the door for the first time to new players in the traditional grid management system: the energy users themselves. With large energy storage devices, such as electric vehicles, in their hands, households can take advantage of the link between supply and demand by reversing the direction of consumption at a national penetration level. Bulgaria is not excluded in the electric vehicle market as part of the European policy to promote a greener society. However, the use of electric vehicles is still limited in Bulgaria today, mainly due to the underdevelopment of the charging network. Therefore, this study takes into account the future development of the EV charging network and overlooks the possibilities of introducing next-generation technologies, which will allow for proper implementation of network augmentation and maximization of the grid capacity. Various scenarios will be modeled, including V2G with no control over charging/discharging timing, V2G scenarios with time control, and opportunistic grid development, utilizing both industry-controlled G2V and non-controlled individual user V2G.
Technological Advancement in Renewable Energy
Technological Advancement in Renewable Energy
(Technological Advancement in Renewable Energy)
- Author(s):A. A. Freeman
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Politics, Economy, Business Economy / Management, Energy and Environmental Studies, Economic policy, Environmental and Energy policy, Green Transformation
- Page Range:81-89
- No. of Pages:9
- Keywords:renewable energy; energy infrastructure; energy transformation
- Summary/Abstract:Over recent decades, the global energy sector has undergone a profound transformation due to significant advancements in renewable energy technologies and supportive policies. Key legislative actions in the U.S., including the Inflation Reduction Act, Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and CHIPS and Science Act, have facilitated an unprecedented financial infusion exceeding $2 trillion to accelerate clean energy development. These laws allocate funds towards upgrading energy infrastructure, incentivizing private investments, and supporting consumer adoption of clean technologies. Notably, the U.S. National Science Foundation's Regional Innovation Engines program, launched in 2022, aims to foster long-term, transformative innovation in clean energy through substantial funding. Technological progress includes dramatic reductions in battery costs, enhancing the affordability and competitiveness of electric vehicles, and advancements in renewable energy technologies such as solar PV and wind. However, challenges persist, particularly in scaling up battery technology and hydrogen production. Addressing these challenges requires ongoing innovation, substantial investment, and supportive policies. The future of a sustainable energy system depends on continued collaborative efforts from governments, industry leaders, and research institutions to meet ambitious decarbonization goals and ensure a resilient energy infrastructure.
The Role of Small Modular Reactors and Nuclear Waste Disposal in Energy Communities
The Role of Small Modular Reactors and Nuclear Waste Disposal in Energy Communities
(The Role of Small Modular Reactors and Nuclear Waste Disposal in Energy Communities)
- Author(s):E. Mladenova
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Politics, Social Sciences, Economy, Business Economy / Management, Energy and Environmental Studies, Sociology, Environmental and Energy policy, Security and defense, Evaluation research, Environmental interactions
- Page Range:90-97
- No. of Pages:8
- Keywords:internal control; nuclear waste; small modular reactors
- Summary/Abstract:Small modular reactors are key to switching to cleaner energy and integrating them into energy communities. To achieve energy security with high-tech systems in the future, countries that use nuclear energy could create additional opportunities in order to balance and ensure independence in the energy sector. The policy and principles for the safe management of radioactive waste management activities are interlinked with the safety, security, risk and internal control management process. Nuclear waste management is a critical aspect of the nuclear power industry and requires a high degree of security and safety. This includes the safe handling, storage and disposal of radioactive materials that remain after nuclear reactions, such as spent nuclear fuel and other by-products of radioactive waste. This process is of strategic national importance for a specific country where nuclear waste is generated and requires an established regulatory framework, regulatory control and well-trained personnel.
Smart Transport Energy System in the Context of Small Communities
Smart Transport Energy System in the Context of Small Communities
(Smart Transport Energy System in the Context of Small Communities)
- Author(s):K. Lalov
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Social Sciences, Economy, Business Economy / Management, Energy and Environmental Studies, Sociology, Evaluation research, Political Ecology, Transport / Logistics, Green Transformation
- Page Range:98-108
- No. of Pages:11
- Keywords:small energy communities; smart energy transport; renewables
- Summary/Abstract:The development of local smart transport energy systems is a crucial enabler of the transition towards a decarbonized renewable energy (RE)-based society with universal energy access as it provides flexibility to integrate variable RE sources. This paper analyses the development of new RE-based local smart transport energy systems (in small communities) while introducing energy technologies and effective methods for smart transport energy systems development, recent progress of energy systems by using RE, practical government measures in pioneer countries for energy systems, development with quantitative data for these countries, and PEST (political, economic, socio-cultural and technological) analysis. Our findings show that the development of smart energy systems requires appropriate policies and that thorough collaboration between all national executive agents like national and local governments and citizens in this regard is crucial. Local smart transport energy systems development needs to be tailored to local conditions, and due consideration must be given new technologies and methods for development, correct policies, investment, collaboration national/local and their citizens, societal support, and citizens acceptance. Creating a smart transport energy system for small communities involves integrating advanced technologies to optimize energy usage, reduce emissions, and improve the efficiency and effectiveness of transportation.
Impact of Electricity Prices on Energy Poverty and on Vulnerable Society Groups. The Role of Energy Cooperatives in Problem Resolving
Impact of Electricity Prices on Energy Poverty and on Vulnerable Society Groups. The Role of Energy Cooperatives in Problem Resolving
(Impact of Electricity Prices on Energy Poverty and on Vulnerable Society Groups. The Role of Energy Cooperatives in Problem Resolving)
- Author(s):Vladimir Zinoviev
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Social Sciences, Economy, Energy and Environmental Studies, Sociology, Evaluation research, Social differentiation, Environmental interactions, Socio-Economic Research
- Page Range:109-113
- No. of Pages:5
- Keywords:energy poverty; energy cooperatives; electricity prices
- Summary/Abstract:This article aims to provide a clear and logical approach to the topic of energy poverty in Bulgaria and its impact on vulnerable groups. Provides an overview of the problem and the characteristics of vulnerable groups. The potential solution for the surpluses of RES-generated electricity during periods of peak generation at a minimal and even negative energy exchange price is considered. A proposal is made to help vulnerable groups to overcome the effects of these prices with an option to consider joining an energy cooperative an alternative.
Electric Mobility and Energy Communities, an Opportunity for Business Cooperation
Electric Mobility and Energy Communities, an Opportunity for Business Cooperation
(Electric Mobility and Energy Communities, an Opportunity for Business Cooperation)
- Author(s):Z. Silagieva
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Economy, Business Economy / Management, Energy and Environmental Studies, Transport / Logistics, Green Transformation
- Page Range:114-125
- No. of Pages:12
- Keywords:energy cooperatives; electric mobility; electric cars; energy system
- Summary/Abstract:Energy cooperatives are increasingly spreading worldwide, and Bulgaria is not excluded either. Each energy society builds its energy system so that it can include battery charging systems and charging stations for electric vehicles in order to use its own generated electricity. The energy must be fully utilized both for the homes in the community concerned and for the electric and hybrid vehicles of the relevant users of the community's electricity. Electric mobility also occupies significant positions in its distribution and development worldwide, as the interconnection between the electricity produced by energy communities and the use of part of this energy to charge electric vehicles is close and must be well balanced and legally arranged in order to be able to talk about balanced electricity, balancing the entire energy system and a circular economy.
Blockchain Technology (Billing and Energy Trading) in Smart Energy Grids (Energy Communities)
Blockchain Technology (Billing and Energy Trading) in Smart Energy Grids (Energy Communities)
(Blockchain Technology (Billing and Energy Trading) in Smart Energy Grids (Energy Communities))
- Author(s):Mariya Bozhilova
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Social Sciences, Economy, Business Economy / Management, Energy and Environmental Studies, Sociology, Social Informatics, Environmental interactions, ICT Information and Communications Technologies
- Page Range:126-134
- No. of Pages:9
- Keywords:blockchain technology; smart energy grids; peer-to-peer energy trading; decentralization; energy communities; billing systems
- Summary/Abstract:The rapid transformation of the energy sector, driven by the adoption of renewable energy sources and the need for efficient management systems, has led to the emergence of smart energy grids. Blockchain technology, known for its decentralized and immutable characteristics, presents a promising solution for revolutionizing billing systems in energy communities. Focusing on what impetus blockchain can bring for increasing transparency, speeding up processes, and incepting trust among stakeholders, this paper explores the possible applications of blockchain to energy billing systems. The present paper does this by giving evidence from case studies – including but not limited to the Prosume project in Italy, LO3 Energy's Brooklyn Microgrid, and Power Ledger's xGrid platform – that clearly show the benefits of blockchain in enabling peer-to-peer energy trade automating billing processes, and improving data security. More importantly, it does so by inspiring the audience with the potential impact; blockchain technology contributes significantly to promoting sustainable energy practices. Equipping energy billing systems with blockchain technology will promote sustainability and improve productivity with only concerns related to scalability and some regulations. To help foster a wider adoption of blockchain solutions within smart energy grids – this study closes with recommendations for future research, standard development and regulatory framework.
Economic Model of the Gabrovo Energy Community: Driving Local Sustainable Energy Transition
Economic Model of the Gabrovo Energy Community: Driving Local Sustainable Energy Transition
(Economic Model of the Gabrovo Energy Community: Driving Local Sustainable Energy Transition)
- Author(s):Todor N. Popov
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Politics, Social Sciences, Economy, Business Economy / Management, Micro-Economics, Energy and Environmental Studies, Sociology, Environmental and Energy policy, Evaluation research, Economic development, Green Transformation
- Page Range:135-147
- No. of Pages:13
- Keywords:SDG; Gabrovo energy community; renewable energy communities
- Summary/Abstract:In Europe, energy communities are widely acknowledged, rather in Bulgaria are still rather rare, for their capacity to bring together citizens in promoting the energy transition. Energy communities not only implement green transition policies to reduce dependence on fossil fuels in the energy system, but they also make a significant contribution to achieving Sustainable Development Goals. The present study examines the economic framework that governs the functioning of the Gabrovo Energy Community, a pioneering initiative in Bulgaria with the objective of fostering domestic renewable energy generation. Through an analysis of the financial structure of the Energy Community, this study illustrates how localised energy systems can provide substantial cost reductions, energy stability, and a feasible return on investment for both residential and non-residential stakeholders. The economic model adopted in Gabrovo fosters the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals by diminishing reliance on fossil fuels, decreasing energy costs, and empowering local stakeholders. The evaluation of key financial results, such as the expected returns of 22% over a tenyear period, is conducted considering the regulatory frameworks and market conditions. The present case study functions as a reproducible paradigm for other municipalities and regions seeking to leverage the advantages of renewable energy communities.
Energy Communities as a Beginning of a Successful Energy Transition: Model-Based Forecasting Approach
Energy Communities as a Beginning of a Successful Energy Transition: Model-Based Forecasting Approach
(Energy Communities as a Beginning of a Successful Energy Transition: Model-Based Forecasting Approach)
- Author(s):Ralena Kutkarska, Dimitrina Koeva
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Politics, Social Sciences, Economy, National Economy, Business Economy / Management, Energy and Environmental Studies, Sociology, Environmental and Energy policy, Methodology and research technology, Policy, planning, forecast and speculation
- Page Range:148-163
- No. of Pages:16
- Keywords:energy transition; energy communities; energy poverty
- Summary/Abstract:All scenarios for the development of the energy sector in Bulgaria, in the context of permanent processes of energy transformation and decarbonization, are subject to a comprehensive planning strategy and a revised organizational structure for the energy market, with adequate management of energy flows in the electricity system and reasoned decisions on investments in new capacities and/or reconstruction of existing ones. Energy community will play a key role in these processes. The questions of what the trends are, what are the necessary actions to overcome regulatory and financial constraints in building energy community can be answered only after an adequate forecast analysis of electricity production and consumption. It is well known that forecasting electricity production and consumption is an important aspect of ensuring optimal functioning of energy systems with guaranteed energy security, planning and thus uninterrupted power supply. The constant demand for electricity, the need for sustainability and guaranteed supply, demonstrates the need for a reliable methodology for forecasting supply and demand in the energy market. In this study, autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) statistical models are used to forecast monthly electricity generation and consumption. ARIMA models are a widely used tool for analyzing and forecasting future trends, based on historical time series data, allowing the identification of patterns and seasonality. Another advantage of these models is that they can be extended to account for various influencing factors. In this way, it is possible to consider the specifics of each energy company.
Specifics of Global and Regional Implementation of Renewable Energy Communities
Specifics of Global and Regional Implementation of Renewable Energy Communities
(Specifics of Global and Regional Implementation of Renewable Energy Communities)
- Author(s):Nikolai Nikolov
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Politics, Economy, Supranational / Global Economy, Business Economy / Management, Micro-Economics, Energy and Environmental Studies, Environmental and Energy policy, EU-Approach / EU-Accession / EU-Development, Socio-Economic Research, Green Transformation
- Page Range:164-169
- No. of Pages:6
- Keywords:renewable energy communities; carbon neutrality; smart energy communities
- Summary/Abstract:This article explores the increasing interest in Renewable Energy Communities (RECs), a subset of Smart Energy Communities (SECs) that emphasize collaborative energy use through decentralized, often renewable, energy systems. These systems enable citizens, businesses, and public entities to share energy resources, focusing on cost savings, sustainability, and safety, and are shaped by European regulations. It addresses a key gap in existing research by presenting a standardized methodology for REC implementation, adaptable to various contexts. It provides novel contributions, including a process for REC development, legal framework comparisons, and funding guidelines for different project types. Additionally, it proposes comprehensive Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to evaluate energy, environmental, economic, and social impacts. These findings aim to support policymakers and stakeholders in advancing REC initiatives through informed decision-making.
Politics and Energy in Modern Energy Communities
Politics and Energy in Modern Energy Communities
(Politics and Energy in Modern Energy Communities)
- Author(s):Nina Dyulgerova
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Politics, Social Sciences, Economy, Supranational / Global Economy, Business Economy / Management, Energy and Environmental Studies, Sociology, Environmental and Energy policy, Political Ecology
- Page Range:170-172
- No. of Pages:3
- Keywords:energy; geopolitics; energy societies; energy mix
- Summary/Abstract:The long-term vision on energy transformation is a game-changer redefining not only the architecture of the power transmission and distribution, but also the understanding of the sector in general. The strategic view for achieving carbon neutrality until 2050 is a significant challenge not only for global the economy, but also for the social understanding of these processes. The political and commercial plan of the energy transformation are dynamic processes, reflecting the preparedness of the people to accept the new model of decentralization and democratization of the power sector.
