Cost Benefit Analysis of Alternative Fuel and Motive Power

2013 ◽  
Author(s):  
Chris Pinney ◽  
Melissa Shurland ◽  
Brian Smith
Keyword(s):  
Environmental Protection Agency ◽  
Energy Security ◽  
Alternative Energy ◽  
Decision Model ◽  
Alternative Fuels ◽  
Research Effort ◽  
Department Of Energy ◽  
Energy Sources ◽  
Potential Cost ◽  
The Us

A research initiative by the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) and Transportation Technology Center, Inc. (TTCI) was developed to better understand the potential cost and benefits of using alternative fuels for United States freight and passenger locomotive operations. The framework for a decision model was developed to evaluate the feasibility of these newly emerging technologies. Because these alternatives (fuels and engine designs) are at early stages of development, the objective is to identify the most feasible alternatives and support their future development. Energy security policies developed by the US Department of Energy (DOE) and emission standards set forth by US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) are driving most of the technology initiatives related to alternative fuels in the US. Identifying alternatives that may provide benefits in the areas of emissions and energy security in relation to their potential cost, safety, and operating efficiencies are the main analysis objectives of this study. Some of the alternative energy sources being studied, and that may be in limited use are biomass, natural gas and coal. These energy sources have the potential to replace diesel fuel and provide power for locomotive operations. However, most are considered experimental by the railway industry. In most cases engine modifications or complete motive power design changes are required. As a result, the use of alternative fuels or locomotives that are different from current diesel engine designs represent only a small percent of the total railroad fleet. The main drivers for the decision model identified in this research effort are Cost, Energy, Security, Emissions, Safety and Efficiency. Under each decision driver there are multiple criteria that may be used for comparison between proposed alternatives. The goal of the decision model is to understand if the criteria under the decision drivers are independently a cost or benefit to industry stakeholders as compared to a baseline case.

SEPARATE PROBLEMS OF INTERNATIONAL LEGAL REGULATION OF DEVELOPMENT OF ALTERNATIVE ENERGY SOURCES

2018 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ievgenii Shulga ◽  
◽  
Nataliia Shynkaruk ◽  
Nataliia Yashchuk ◽  
◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
International Organizations ◽  
Energy Security ◽  
Alternative Energy ◽  
Renewable Energy Sources ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Legal Regulation ◽  
Energy Sources ◽  
Alternative Energy Sources ◽  
The Government

The article examines topical problems of the role of international organizations in the direction of the development of alternative energy and strengthening of energy security in the world. Considerable attention is paid to the importance of the introduction and development of alternative energy in the context of ensuring environmental human rights and economic well-being. Analyzed the main international legal treaties regulating the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions into the atmosphere and the use of alternative renewable energy sources. The main international governmental and non-governmental organizations in the direction of ensuring environmental and energy security have been identified. Attention is drawn to the need to strengthen the role of these organizations by strengthening the functions of supervision and monitoring to increase the possibility of influencing states that do not comply with the provisions of signed and ratified international conventions. It is concluded that it is necessary to adjust the vector of development of instruments for the protection of environmental rights in the direction of its world globalization. The existing global concept for the development of alternative energy sources requires changes. Given that the environmental problem is universal and, although to one degree or another, it still affects every person, regardless of country or nationality, the obligation to protect the environment must be universal, fulfilled and enforced not only by the government bodies of sovereign states, but also international government organizations. It is noted that the programs and recommendations of international organizations are developed directly for individual states, taking into account their geographical and economic location when choosing the types and methods of developing alternative energy.

Power Generation for the Near Future

2010 ◽  
Author(s):  
Kau-Fui Vincent Wong ◽  
Guillermo Amador
Keyword(s):  
Greenhouse Gases ◽  
Energy Production ◽  
Alternative Energy ◽  
Nuclear Power ◽  
Fossil Fuels ◽  
Energy Sources ◽  
Traditional Methods ◽  
Alternative Energy Sources ◽  
The Us ◽  
Near Future

As society continues advancing into the future, more energy is required to supply the increasing population and energy demands. Unfortunately, traditional forms of energy production through the burning of carbon-based fuels are dumping harmful pollutants into the environment, resulting in detrimental, and possibly irreversible, effects on our planet. The burning of coal and fossil fuels provides energy at the least monetary cost for countries like the US, but the price being paid through their negative impact of our atmosphere is difficult to quantify. A rapid shift to clean, alternative energy sources is critical in order to reduce the amount of greenhouse gas emissions. For alternative energy sources to replace traditional energy sources that produce greenhouse gases, they must be capable of providing energy at equal or greater rates and efficiencies, while still functioning at competitive prices. The main factors hindering the pursuit of alternative sources are their high initial costs and, for some, intermittency. The creation of electrical energy from natural sources like wind, water, and solar is very desirable since it produces no greenhouse gases and makes use of renewable sources—unlike fossil fuels. However, the planning and technology required to tap into these sources and transfer energy at the rate and consistency needed to supply our society comes at a higher price than traditional methods. These high costs are a result of the large-scale implementation of the state-of-the-art technologies behind the devices required for energy cultivation and delivery from these unorthodox sources. On the other hand, as fossil fuel sources become scarcer, the rising fuel costs drive overall costs up and make traditional methods less cost effective. The growing scarcity of fossil fuels and resulting pollutants stimulate the necessity to transition away from traditional energy production methods. Currently, the most common alternative energy technologies are solar photovoltaics (PVs), concentrated solar power (CSP), wind, hydroelectric, geothermal, tidal, wave, and nuclear. Because of government intervention in countries like the US and the absence of the need to restructure the electricity transmission system (due to the similarity in geographical requirements and consistency in power outputs for nuclear and traditional plants), nuclear energy is the most cost competitive energy technology that does not produce greenhouse gases. Through the proper use of nuclear fission electricity at high efficiencies could be produced without polluting our atmosphere. However, the initial capital required to erect nuclear plants dictates a higher cost over traditional methods. Therefore, the government is providing help with the high initial costs through loan guarantees, in order to stimulate the growth of low-emission energy production. This paper analyzes the proposal for the use of nuclear power as an intermediate step before an eventual transition to greater dependence on energy from wind, water, and solar (WWS) sources. Complete dependence on WWS cannot be achieved in the near future, within 20 years, because of the unavoidable variability of these sources and the required overhaul of the electricity transmission system. Therefore, we look to nuclear power in the time being to help provide predictable power as a means to reduce carbon emissions, while the other technologies are refined and gradually implemented in order to meet energy demand on a consistent basis.

scholarly journals BIOFUELS FROM ALGAE AS A DIRECTION FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE «GREEN» ECONOMY: THE CURRENT STATE AND PROSPECTS

2021 ◽  
pp. 21-36
Author(s):  
Hanna SHEVCHUK
Keyword(s):  
Alternative Energy ◽  
Alternative Fuels ◽  
Biodiesel Production ◽  
Biofuel Production ◽  
Basic Knowledge ◽  
Energy Sources ◽  
Third Generation ◽  
Current State ◽  
Algae Biofuel ◽  
The Impact

The article describes environmental aspects of the impact of traditional energy sources on the environment. It is substantiated that energy needs and environmental problems lead to the search for alternative renewable fuels. A comparative analysis of the structure of general supply between traditional and alternative energy sources is done. The current state of production and use of traditional fuels and prospects for the production of biofuels in Ukraine are analyzed. The projected structure of the use of traditional and alternative fuels according to the Energy Strategy of Ukraine until 2035 «Safety, energy efficiency, competitiveness» is presented. The classification of biofuels is provided depending on raw materials: first, second and third generation. Unlike biofuels from crops such as sugar cane and corn (first-generation biofuels), as well as animal and vegetable wastes (second-generation), algae-derived fuels (third-generation biofuels) have many benefits. In particular, this is a greater potential for biofuel production compared to previous systems: a variety of possible fuels (biodiesel, bioethanol, biobutanol, biogas and even jet fuel); flexible production technologies. Algae cultivation technologies have been studied: especially cultivation in open reservoirs or in more advanced closed ponds and bioreactors. It is substantiated that algae are most often used for biodiesel production; a comparison of different technologies for its production is made. The foreign experience of algae biofuel production and its usage by various automobile companies and enterprises, as well as the prospects of algae biofuel production in Ukraine are presented. Despite the prospects for the production of the third-generation biofuels, there we think, that the issue of investigation has been not been studied properly by scientists and Ukrainian producers don’t have basic knowledge.

scholarly journals Potential of renewable sources in Ukraine

2021 ◽  
pp. 25-31
Author(s):  
Andrii Doronin ◽  
Olena Polishchuk ◽  
Vitalii Rybchak
Keyword(s):  
Alternative Energy ◽  
Alternative Fuels ◽  
Financial Economic ◽  
Oil Products ◽  
Energy Sources ◽  
Product Substitution ◽  
Joint Actions ◽  
Foreign Experience ◽  
Alternative Energy Sources ◽  
Market Relations

Bearing in mind a serious dependence of Ukraine on the import of oil products, it is of great significance for Ukraine to develop own manufacture and to increase the share of oil product substitution with biofuel. It is not possible to develop biofuel market without solving a number of economic and organizational problems, which is why it is expedient to introduce financial-economic stimuli for biofuel producers and to build a stable demand for alternative kinds of fuel. In Ukraine the manufacture of alternative fuels almost terminated, however the solution of the problem of biofuel manufacture will depend on the coordination of joint actions of the state, participants of market relations and the development of the system of measures aimed at the creation of pre-conditions to enhance a competitive biofuel market in Ukraine, taking into consideration foreign experience and current tendencies of the manufacture and use of the alternative energy sources.

Switching to Clean Energy: A Milestone for Energy Security and Economic Advantage for Nepal

2018 ◽  
Vol 1 (1) ◽  
pp. 20-23
Author(s):  
Chet Narayan Acharya
Keyword(s):  
Energy Security ◽  
Alternative Energy ◽  
Renewable Energy Sources ◽  
Clean Energy ◽  
Green Energy ◽  
Energy Utilization ◽  
Living Standard ◽  
Energy Sources ◽  
Alternative Energy Sources ◽  
Development Agenda

With the world-wide wave of economic development and improved traditional living standard of people, consumption of fuel has also increased significantly. Exponential growth in use of fossil fuel and its impacts compelled to search for alternative energy sources. Green energy is that source of energy that is naturally restocked. Nepal is rich enough country for renewable energy sources even though, could not accelerate growth and development agenda.  Appropriate policy and planning of green energy would help to give a big push to break development hazards and would contribute for economic freedom and energy security.  This paper attempts to scrutinize and understand the green energy utilization, proper management and exploring the capacity of the Nepalese economy.

Incorporating unconventional and renewable energy into the international energy framework: the diminution of OPEC in a new energy world order

2020 ◽  
Vol 13 (1) ◽  
pp. 68-80
Author(s):  
Victoria Roth
Keyword(s):  
Renewable Energy ◽  
Initial Public Offering ◽  
Energy Security ◽  
Energy Production ◽  
Alternative Energy ◽  
Renewable Energy Sources ◽  
Petroleum Industry ◽  
World Order ◽  
Energy Sources ◽  
Global Energy

Abstract Nearing its 60th anniversary of foundation, the once unchallenged Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) faces a modern diminution of influence. This slipping grip of near-hegemonic control exerted over the petroleum industry, is partly reflective of the rising influence of unconventional energy sources, the rising popularity for alternative and renewable energy sources and a downstream consequence of its own exertion of power. With rising international demand for renewables as a means to provide global energy security, the role of the state remains paramount in meeting energy demands. The international framework falls short of enabling a framework that brings renewable energy past its domestic dependency and into an internationally traded commodity. Following the 1973 embargo against the USA, OPEC inadvertently spurred on the need for a diversified market of energy production to ensure global energy security free from the whims of oligarchic groups. The subsequent investment into alternative energy, including the rising technological advancements made in areas such as horizontal and seismic imaging technology (or, ‘fracking’), has led to the diversification of energy production sources and lessened reliance on external importers by the American energy consumption powerhouse. The lessening reliance on OPEC has had a consequential impact on the unofficial head of the organization, Saudi Arabia. From the proposed initial public offering of Saudi Aramco to Vision 2030, all signs point to looming economic troubles for the petroleum dependant state without adequate, and effective, diversification.

scholarly journals Perspectives of Use of Alternative Energy Sources in Air Transport

2017 ◽  
Vol 5 (1) ◽  
pp. 12-16
Author(s):  
Luboš Socha ◽  
Vladimír Socha ◽  
Peter Čekan ◽  
Daniela Čekanová ◽  
Lenka Hanáková ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Alternative Energy ◽  
Alternative Fuels ◽  
Fossil Fuels ◽  
Negative Impact ◽  
Air Transport ◽  
Energy Sources ◽  
Synthetic Fuels ◽  
Paper Briefly ◽  
Alternative Energy Sources ◽  
Alternative Sources

The problem of environmental load is also reflected in air transport. Usage of fossil fuels, which are dominant nowadays, has a negative impact on the environment and also its resources are limited. Therefore, the article focuses on the prospective of use of other energy sources in aviation, such as alternative fuels (synthetic fuels, biofuels, alcohol, methane, hydrogen), solar energy and the use of fuel cells. Also, the paper briefly summarizes the approach of aircraft manufacturers to the use alternative sources.

POLAND’S ENERGY SECURITY IN THE CONTEXT OF EXPLORATION FOR ALTERNATIVE ENERGY SOURCES

2011 ◽  
Vol 162 (4) ◽  
pp. 48-60
Author(s):  
Rafał SZYMCZYK
Keyword(s):  
Energy Security ◽  
Alternative Energy ◽  
New Technologies ◽  
Energy Sector ◽  
Current Situation ◽  
Energy Sources ◽  
Future Prospects ◽  
Alternative Energy Sources ◽  
Energy Independence ◽  
Fuel And Energy Sector

This article outlines the issues of Poland’s energy security in the context of the country's energy independence from external suppliers through the diversification of supply sources, the use of national sources and the search for alternative energy sources and new technologies. It also presents the current situation of the fuel and energy sector, future prospects and commitments resulting from the European Union’s guidelines.

scholarly journals Meat meal and industrial fat as alternative fuels in agriculture

2007 ◽  
pp. 220-222
Author(s):  
László Nagypál
Keyword(s):  
Alternative Energy ◽  
Alternative Fuels ◽  
Fossil Fuels ◽  
Good Alternative ◽  
Hazardous Wastes ◽  
Energy Sources ◽  
Meat Meal ◽  
New Energy ◽  
Processing Plants ◽  
Fuel Meat

I study new energy sources which can replace fossil fuels. As I deal with the burning processes, I have analyzed several kinds of wastes. I think one solution for replacing fossil fuels would be to burn regenerated energy sources in agriculture. For example, oil, industrial fat and meat meal from processing plants are treated as hazardous wastes. There exist non-hazardous wastes for energy recovery, as by-products e.g. sawdust, wood shavings, vegetable oils, stems of plants or poultry manure.We should produce energy from the outsides of vegetables and juices, and should produce bioethanol by fermenting vegetable wastes. We could treat the used vegetable oil to make bio-diesel fuel. Meat meal and fat are good alternative energy forms, if burnt in incineration plants. These materials are new renewable sources of energy.There are some problems in the use of biomass for energy sources. We have to look for the best loading device and burning processes.

Asta-Ja and Energy Security in Nepal

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Durga D Poudel
Keyword(s):  
Distribution System ◽  
Energy Security ◽  
Alternative Energy ◽  
Solar Power ◽  
Renewable Energy Sources ◽  
Clean Energy ◽  
Energy Resources ◽  
Energy Sources ◽  
Ecological Balance ◽  
Energy Independence

Energy independence and sustainable renewable energy sources are the two main components of energy security for Nepal. More than 2/3rd of energy consumed in Nepal comes from biofuels and waste and about 1/4th of energy consumed comes from coal and petroleum products. With increasing number of motor vehicles and rising demand for cooking gas, Nepal’s coal and petroleum import bills in recent years have reached over Rs. 200 billion. With its vast water resources, Nepal has a great potential for energy independence and sustainability and achieve energy security. Nepal’s current 1,689 MW hydroelectricity capacity is expected to reach over 5,000 MW in next three to five years, which means Nepal will have a large amount of clean energy in the market. This increased hydropower production will also require an increased domestic consumption by making hydroelectricity affordable, reliable, and high-quality energy by improving its distribution system. Nepal also has a very high potential for solar power, which need to be harnessed and brought to the national grid. Nepal needs to harness all energy sources, which consist of hydropower, solar power, wind power, biofuels, and biogas, in a sustainable way for its energy independence and security. Because Nepal is in a geologically active and natural disasters prone area, it is critical to ensure ecological balance of Asta-Ja elements, Nepali letter, Jal (water), Jamin (land), Jungle (forest), Jadibuti (medicinal and aromatic plants), Janashakti (manpower), Janawar (animal), Jarajuri (crop plants) and Jalabayu (climate) while developing energy resources. Asta-Ja Framework serves as the connecting bridge between the energy resources and the end users. Strategic planning for comprehensive energy development considering ecological balance of Asta-Ja resources, decarbonization and electrification of energy end uses, improvement of energy infrastructures, continuous monitoring and evaluation of energy sector, and development of hydropower plants and alternative energy sources such as solar and wind is suggested for energy security in Nepal.

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