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Articles in press have been peer-reviewed and accepted, which are not yet assigned to volumes/issues, but are citable by Digital Object Identifier (DOI).
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The Impact of PEDF Technology on Carbon Emissions from Urban Buildings
MA Qian, ZHA Xiaoxiong, LIANG Kai, YUAN Yuan, QI He
, Available online  , doi: 10.16516/j.ceec.2025-009
Abstract:
  Objective  As one of the main sectors of carbon emissions, it is significant for the building sector to analyze the carbon emissions and the application potential of carbon reduction technologies, and plan carbon reduction paths, which will help to achieve the "3060" dual carbon goals in this sector and even in the country. The application of "photovoltaics, energy storage, direct current and flexibility" technology, one of the advanced low-carbon technologies in the building sector, can help the sector reduce carbon emissions and achieve carbon peak as soon as possible. However, most research in the field focuses on the emission calculation for individual buildings. There is currently a lack of comprehensive calculation and planning research on carbon emissions for the building complexes or the urban-level buildings, as well as the impacts of the carbon reduction technologies applied. This paper is to determine the carbon condition for each building sub-section and quantitatively analyse the carbon reduction potential of advanced technologies.   Method  This research focused on carbon emissions research in the field of urban buildings with establishing the carbon emission calculation and trend prediction models and analyzing the impact of the application of "photovoltaics, energy storage, direct current and flexibility" technology on carbon emissions in the building sector. The contribution of this advanced technology could be quantified. Shenzhen City of South China had been chosen as a case study for carbon analysis.   Result  The results show that the carbon emission of the building sector in the city is on the rise. The PEDF technology shows a great carbon reduction potential with 0.1407 million tons of reduction compared with the traditional rooftop photovoltaics.   Conclusion  This model can be widely applied in the urban building carbon emission analysis and quantifying the impact of low-carbon technology, which can be of great significance for the construction planning of carbon-neutral cities. The relevant policies should not only strengthen the utilization of renewable energy but also emphasize its consumption, while promoting the application of the PEDF technology.
Energy Efficiency Analysis of Carbon Capture Systems Using Chemical Absorption Based on the Second Law of Thermodynamics
Peng Gang, LIU Shuwei, WU Qirong, Wang Wen, Li Fang
, Available online  , doi: 10.16516/j.ceec.2025-003
Abstract:
  Objective  This study aims to investigate the actual energy efficiency of coal-fired flue gas chemical absorption-based carbon capture systems, providing a scientific basis for the optimization and promotion of this technology.   Method  Initially, the energy consumption status of typical chemical absorption-based carbon capture systems worldwide was reviewed to establish the energy consumption levels of existing technologies. Subsequently, based on actual engineering cases, a heat balance analysis of the chemical absorption-based carbon capture system was conducted, and the system's heat and electricity consumption were measured and calculated. On this foundation, an equivalent total energy consumption calculation method was proposed to comprehensively evaluate the system's overall energy consumption. The concept of "Second Law of Thermodynamics efficiency" was introduced as a thermo-economic evaluation method to analyze the system's energy efficiency. Furthermore, by taking the steam thermal consumption - one of the critical energy-consuming links in the system - as an example, an exergy loss analysis was performed to identify critical nodes of energy utilization.   Result  The results indicate that the target carbon capture system has an equivalent total electricity consumption of 397.8 kWh/t CO2, an equivalent total heat consumption of 33.4 GJ/t CO2, a Second Law of Thermodynamics efficiency of 28.1%, and a steam exergy loss rate of 18.81%. Compared with existing chemical absorption-based carbon capture technologies, the system demonstrates superior performance in energy consumption control and energy utilization efficiency, although further optimization potential remains.   Conclusion  It is recommended to conduct further research on absorbents and optimize the process technology for the carbon capture system to enhance the system's Second Law of Thermodynamics efficiency. Exploring more economical heat source alternatives or utilizing heat pump technology to recover low-grade heat from steam condensate for energy recycling could reduce the consumption of high-grade energy and improve the system's overall economic viability.
Review and Cost Analysis of Anchored Foundation for Floating Offshore Wind Turbine
WEN Feng, HAN Fenglin
, Available online  , doi: 10.16516/j.ceec.2024-435
Abstract:
  Objective  Cost reduction is currently the primary task and target for floating offshore wind farms, and the anchored foundation, as a critical component of such a system, is subject to cost reduction accordingly.   Method  The cost of anchored foundation could be reduced by selecting optimal type of anchored foundation, adopting shared anchored foundation and developing novel type of anchored foundation. By a review of the current application of anchored foundation in existing floating offshore wind projects, a comprehensive statistical analysis was conducted on the types of anchored foundation for prototype and demonstration projects both in and out of China. Then a further study was performed to evaluate the impacts of three distinct anchor types: drag embedment anchor, suction anchor, and pile anchor which were on the total cost of anchored foundations (inclusive of construction, installation, and recovery costs) under varying water depths (50 m and 100 m) at the same site with the same mooring tension. The research progress on shared mooring and innovative anchoring technologies was also outlined.   Result  The statistics indicate that, except the Windfloat project whose anchored foundation employs the drag embedment anchor design, the anchored foundation of most constructed floating offshore wind prototype projects and demonstration projects predominantly employs the suction anchor design. The cost comparison analysis reveals that the total cost of the suction anchor design is lower than that of the pile anchor design, and the drag embedment anchor design is the most cost-effective type. However, drag embedment anchor is challenged by complex installation and positioning difficulties, and is not suitable for shared anchored foundation.   Conclusion  The suction anchor design shows good adaptability in floating offshore wind farms and is poised to become increasingly competitive in deep-sea environments. The shared suction anchor design is anticipated to emerge as the predominant anchored foundation solution for future floating offshore wind farms.
Research Overview of Solar Thermal Power Technology in China
SUN Liping, SONG Ziheng, MA Jun, ZHANG Jiuming, CHI Mingbo
, Available online  , doi: 10.16516/j.ceec.2024-314
Abstract:
  Objective  As the demand for global climate change intensifies and energy transformation grows, solar energy becomes a clean, low-carbon, renewable resource which has emerged as a vital choice for energy transition in many countries. In particular, solar thermal power generation technology is gaining attention due to its efficient thermal energy conversion and relatively stable power generation characteristics. This article analyzes the strategic plan for the high-quality development of China's solar thermal industry, driven by the "dual carbon" goals and energy transformation initiatives.   Method  First, this article provided an overview of the main solar thermal development technologies in China and reviewed the historical progression of solar thermal technology within the country, highlighting significant advancements in technological innovation, project construction, and policy support in recent years. Next, we analyzed current solar thermal projects connected to the grid in China, examining aspects such as investment costs, operational power generation, and economic viability, as well as projects that were under construction or proposed. Finally, We also addressed the challenges faced in promoting and applying solar thermal technology in China, including technical challenges related to system efficiency, integration, and heat storage; high construction and operational costs that affected project economics; market challenges arising from competition and lengthy project approval cycles; policy support issues such as regulatory instability and gaps; and environmental challenges including land use, water consumption, and social acceptance. To overcome these challenges, this paper offered several development recommendations.   Result  The high-quality development of the solar thermal industry necessitates comprehensive support from the entire sector. The government should increase investment in research and development of solar thermal technology, enhance core technological innovation, and optimize the assessment and planning of solar thermal resources. Improving resource utilization efficiency and managing large-scale production costs can also help reduce operational expenses and enhance economic viability. Furthermore, it is essential to refine relevant policies and market mechanisms for solar thermal power generation, providing additional financial incentives and support. Expanding into new markets and regions, fostering international cooperation, and promoting the implementation of solar thermal projects are crucial steps. Finally, strengthening social communication and environmental protection is vital.   Conclusion  By analyzing the current status, challenges, and development recommendations for solar thermal power generation in China, this article offers systematic theoretical support and practical guidance for industry advancement. The aim is to facilitate the maturation and application of solar thermal technology. Ultimately, the development of China's solar thermal technology is significant not only for national energy security and environmental protection but also plays a key role in the global energy transition and climate change response.