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The paper examines the energy transition using Poland as a case study. The model was estimated based on annual data for Poland for the period of 1990–2024 (n = 35). The estimation was carried out using the OLS method with HAC correction, and the statistical significance of parameters was assessed using statistical tests. Based on econometric analysis, the impact was examined throughout the entire research period, with additional analysis of the structural break dummy for 2015. It was verified whether this impact had changed since 2015 compared to the earlier period. The data were used to calculate indicators, arranged in three groups: (1) capacity availability indicators (for the availability of the overall power system and for the renewable energy sources (RES)); (2) indicator of emission intensity (the indicator was defined as the ratio of total greenhouse gases emission to real GDP); (3) indicator of the economy’s energy intensity (the indicator was defined as primary energy consumption per unit of GDP). Annual summaries of these indicators constituted the input data for econometric modelling. The aim of the empirical analysis was to deepen the identification of mechanisms shaping greenhouse gas emission intensity by incorporating into the model indicators of generation capacity availability and measures of the economy’s energy intensity. The data collection based on constructed greenhouse gas emission intensity and energy intensity indicators of the economy enables the analysis of the increase in emission intensity regardless of the scale of the economy, in the system of power availability for the entire energy system, as well as for renewable energy sources. This approach makes it possible to move away from the analysis of absolute volumes toward a structural perspective that better reflects the real production capabilities of the power system as well as the efficiency of energy use in the economy. The results indicate that economic energy intensity is the dominant determinant of greenhouse gas emission intensity in Poland during the research period. The econometric analysis estimates show a positive and statistically significant relationship between energy intensity and emissions intensity, whereas generation capacity availability indicators—both for the total power system and for renewable energy sources—do not exhibit statistically significant effects. However, it was found that this impact was not constant throughout the entire period (β is 0.455 for pre-2015 and 0.325 for post-2015). Sensitivity analysis based on point elasticities reveals that a 1% increase in energy intensity of GDP leads to an increase in greenhouse gas emission intensity (by approximately 1.18% pre-2015 and 0.85% post-2015), whereas analogous changes in total capacity availability and RES availability are associated with substantially smaller effects (0.10% and 0.20%, respectively). These findings suggest that improvements in economy-wide energy efficiency played a more decisive role in reducing emissions intensity than short-term variations in generation capacity availability.

This paper provides a comprehensive review of solutions based on artificial intelligence (AI) in the urban energy sector, with a focus on their applications and impacts. The study employed a literature review methodology to analyze recent research on AI’s role in energy-related solutions, covering the years 2019 to 2023. The authors classified publications according to their main focus, resulting in two key areas of AI implementation: residential and individual user applications, and urban infrastructure integration for society. The objectives of this review of the literature are the following: O1: to identify trends, emerging technologies, and applications using AI in the energy field; O2: to provide up-to-date insights into the use of AI in energy-related applications; O3: to gain a comprehensive understanding of the current state of AI-driven urban energy solutions; O4: to explore future directions, emerging trends, and challenges in the field of AI-driven energy solutions. This paper contributes to a deeper understanding of the transformative potential of AI in urban energy management, providing valuable insights and directions for researchers and practitioners in the field. Based on the results, it can be claimed that AI connected to energy at homes is used in the following areas: heating and cooling, lighting, windows and blinds, home devices, and energy management systems. AI is integrating into urban infrastructure through the following solutions: enhancement of electric vehicle charging infrastructure, reduction in vehicle emissions, development of smart grids, and efficient energy storage. What is more, the latest challenges associated with the implementation of AI-driven energy solutions include the need to balance resident comfort with energy efficiency in smart homes, ensuring compatibility and cooperation among various devices, preventing unintended energy consumption increases due to constant connectivity, the management of renewable energy sources, and the coordination of energy consumption.

The global energy crisis, which began in 2021 due to the extraordinary economic recovery after the pandemic and intensified after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, has changed the conditions of energy management, paying more attention to energy efficiency. Natural gas prices have reached record levels and, consequently, so have electricity prices in some markets. Oil prices have reached their highest level since 2008. Higher energy prices have contributed to sharply increased inflation. Households are again becoming interested in buying coal as a source of heat. High energy and gas prices have pushed many families into poverty and forced some factories to cut production or even close. They have also slowed economic growth to the point where some countries are heading for a serious recession. Paradoxically, the negative effects of the energy crisis may accelerate the introduction of cleaner, sustainable, renewable energy such as wind and solar energy. The energy crisis is comparable to the oil crisis of the 1970s, when it contributed to significant advances in energy efficiency. The current crisis has highlighted the importance of investments in renewable energy resources and initiated the process of integrating regional markets, developing energy efficiency and promoting renewable energies. The aim of this article is to comprehensively explore the complex relationship between energy awareness, consumption patterns, and energy efficiency, with a focus on both individual consumers and industries, during the global energy crisis. This paper is based on a literature review, overarching policy documents, energy reports, and other secondary documents. The primary research method was the systematic literature review method, based on which the impact of the global energy crisis on energy efficiency was evaluated. This study emphasizes the diverse influences on energy awareness, ranging from economic factors to consumer preferences and environmental consciousness. The findings of the paper underscore the significant responsibility of industries in contributing to energy-saving efforts and the active role of consumers in the energy market. The responsibility of industries in contributing to energy efficiency is highlighted, with a call for a comprehensive approach that integrates energy-saving criteria into product development and corporate social responsibility.

The article presents an analysis of the statistical relationship between the determinants of and barriers to the development of renewable energy sources (RESs) in the macroeconomic system and the development of renewable energy source consumption in individual European Union countries. The article considers four key categories of RES development barriers in the European Union: political, administrative, grid infrastructural, and socioeconomic. The work is based on publicly available historical data from European Union reports, Eurostat, and the Eclareon RES Policy Monitoring Database. The empirical analysis includes all 27 countries belonging to the European Union. The research aimed to determine the impact of all four types of factors, including socioeconomic, on the development of RESs in European Union countries. The analysis uncovered that describing the European Union as a consistent region regarding the speed of renewable energy advancement and the obstacles to such progress is not accurate. Notably, a significant link exists between a strong degree of societal development and the integration of renewable energy sources. In less prosperous EU nations, economic growth plays a pivotal role in renewable energy development. Barriers of an administrative nature exert a notable influence on renewable energy development, especially in less affluent EU countries, while grid-related obstacles are prevalent in Southern–Central Europe. In nations where the proportion of renewable energy sources in electricity consumption is substantial, an excess of capacity in the renewable energy market significantly affects its growth.

The Green Deal, a cornerstone of the European Union’s climate goals, sets out to achieve a substantial 55% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 compared to 1990 levels. The EU’s decarbonization strategies revolve around three pivotal avenues. First, there is a focus on enhancing energy efficiency and decreasing the energy intensity of economies. Second, concerted efforts are made to diminish the reliance on fossil fuels, particularly within industrial sectors. Lastly, there is a deliberate push to augment the share of renewable energy sources in the final energy consumption mix. These measures collectively aim to propel the decarbonization of EU economies, establishing EU member countries as global leaders in implementing these transformative processes. This manuscript seeks to evaluate the efficacy of three primary decarbonization strategies adopted by EU economies, namely the enhancement in energy efficiency, the promotion of renewable energy consumption and the reduction in fossil fuel consumption. The objective is to discern which strategies wield a decisive influence in achieving decarbonization goals across EU countries. The analysis encompasses all 27 member states of the European Union, spanning from 1990 to 2022, with data sourced from reputable outlets, including Eurostat, Our World in Data and the Energy Institute. Research findings underscore that, in the realm of decarbonization policies, statistically significant impacts on carbon dioxide emission reduction are attributable to the strategies of improving energy efficiency and augmenting the share of renewables in energy consumption across almost all EU countries. Conversely, the strategy with the least impact, embraced by a minority of EU member states, revolves around diminishing the share of fossil fuels in primary energy consumption. This approach, while statistically less impactful, is intricately linked with transitioning the economies toward renewable energy sources, thus playing a contributory role in the broader decarbonization landscape. The uniqueness of this research lies not only in its discernment of overarching trends but also in its fervent advocacy for a comprehensive and adaptive approach to EU decarbonization policy. It underscores the enduring significance of prioritizing energy efficiency, endorsing the integration of renewable energy and acknowledging the distinctive dynamics inherent in diverse regions. The study accentuates the necessity for nuanced, region-specific strategies, challenging the conventional wisdom of a uniform approach to decarbonization. In doing so, it accentuates the critical importance of tailoring policies to the varied energy landscapes and transition strategies evident in different EU member states.

The publication presents heat and electricity management in the Polish steel industry. The paper is based on actual data on heat and electricity consumption and intensity by processes in the steel industry in Poland in Industry 4.0 conditions. Two steel production processes are used in Poland: EAF Electric Arc Furnace and BOF Basic Oxygen Furnace. The analysis is an analysis of actual data is used to characterise the electricity and heat consumption by processes in the Polish steel industry. The analysis shows that the EAF technology is always more electricity intensive and the BOF technology more heat intensive. On the basis of conducted analysis, it can be concluded that pro-environmental innovations in the steel industry should first aim to reduce the electricity consumption of EAF technology and the heat consumption of BOF. An analysis of data for Poland for the period 2004–2020 shows that both cases occurred. The study shows that the heat consumption of BOF technologies has been steadily decreasing since 2010, and the electricity consumption of EAF technologies has been decreasing throughout the period under review. It can be concluded from this that the Polish steel industry is adapting to pro-environmental requirements and, through the introduction of technological innovations, is moving towards the concept of sustainable steel production according to green steel principles. The decrease in energy intensity (means electricity) of steel produced according to EAF technology is an important issue, as the high energy intensity of EAF processes affects the overall energy intensity of the steel production in Poland. In the future, the use of new innovative technological solutions, including solutions based on Industry 4.0 principles, should help the Polish steel industry to further reduce the level of electricity and heat consumption. The driving force behind the investment is the boom in the steel market. The authors made a short-term forecasts of steel production (2022–2025). The annual forecasts determined and analyses made were used to determine the heat and energy consumption of the Polish steel industry up to 2025.

One of the foremost challenges in today’s global economy is ensuring energy security for individual countries and regions. In the contemporary context, this security plays a pivotal role in ensuring sovereignty, fostering innovation, and bolstering competitiveness, particularly in knowledge-based economies. The pursuit of energy independence while mitigating adverse environmental impacts stands as a key priority in European Union policy. Efforts towards achieving a zero-carbon economy encompass all member states, including those in Central and Eastern Europe (CEE). This paper delves into this pressing issue by evaluating the sustainable energy security and policy efficiency of CEE countries over a 15-year period. This research employed a well-defined methodology, employing a multidimensional approach to address the complexity of the issue. The outcome of this approach was the development of the Sustainable Energy Security Index (SESI) for the countries under study, serving as a benchmark for evaluating energy security and policy effectiveness. Multiple Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) methods, including COPRAS, EDAS, MAIRCA, and the Hurwicz criterion, were utilized to determine the SESI value. Additionally, CRITIC, equal weights, standard deviation methods, and Laplace’s criterion were employed to ascertain the weights of the indices characterizing various dimensions of sustainable energy security. The findings reveal significant disparities in energy security and policy implementation effectiveness among CEE countries. Slovenia, Croatia, Latvia, Romania, and Hungary demonstrated notably strong performance, while Poland and Bulgaria lagged behind. These results underscore the necessity of integrating findings into the energy and climate strategies of both CEE countries and the EU-27 as a whole.

This paper explores ways to save energy in households with energy prosumers who generate energy using photovoltaic panels and heat pumps. On the basis of a literature analysis, we formulated a research gap in the case of the energy behaviors of prosumers. This research is important due to the growing demand for energy and the transitions of countries toward renewable energy sources. The role of prosumers in the economy is growing as they ensure energy independence and cost savings. The main purpose of this research is to understand the energy behaviors of prosumers and to examine the differences in energy behaviors between users of photovoltaic systems and heat pumps. A sample of 326 Polish prosumer households was selected using the CAWI method in order to obtain empirical data. The results suggest that prosumers show advanced ecological behaviors, and more than half of the respondents implement pro-ecological behaviors in their homes. Being a prosumer is associated with energy independence, which leads to economic stability and less dependence on traditional energy sources. The results indicate that prosumers show a general inclination toward pro-ecological behavior. Thus, this study recommends promoting prosumers and encouraging the use of pro-ecological energy as a priority for the economy. This initiative will contribute to a reduction in energy consumption in various areas, thus raising ecological awareness and a sense of responsibility for the environment.

The optimal technological choice for sustainable development lies in renewable energy sources (RES). However, the potential offered by RES utilization poses significant challenges for mobile technologies and everyday living. Despite extensive research and information highlighting the benefits of renewable energy, there remains considerable debate, and limited awareness persists. The advantages of RES are not fully comprehended, raising concerns about its consistent application. Regrettably, lack of knowledge and a fundamental understanding hinders effective dissemination. To gauge the attitudes of residents in regions where RES is employed, this study employed a questionnaire authored by the researcher. The study was conducted between June 2022 and January 2023, with a total of 12,428 participants completing the survey. The sampling method utilized an online form distributed via various social media channels and among local contacts of the authors in Poland, Sweden, and France. Gender allocation: 58% male and 42% female. Respondents shared their perspectives on ecology and disclosed their familiarity with RES utilization. Results indicate public skepticism regarding the adequacy of RES security measures and the level of knowledge for its effective use. Insufficient experts, limited social advocacy, and reliance on online sources contribute to a low level of awareness. In several EU countries, the absence of widely accepted and easily accessible information on renewable energy sources (RES) hinders knowledge sharing and adoption. Despite the EU’s efforts to promote renewable energy through directives and subsidies, rural communities in these countries often lack adequate education and awareness about RES technologies. This gap in knowledge contributes to unfavorable perceptions, with some residents viewing renewables as unreliable or economically unfeasible options compared to traditional energy sources like coal or natural gas. Additionally, bureaucratic hurdles and inconsistent government policies further complicate the transition to renewable energy, discouraging investment and innovation in the sector. As a result, while the EU aims for a sustainable energy future, these barriers impede the widespread growth of RES and hinder progress towards climate targets. In Poland the study found that 76% of respondents expressed favorable perceptions of RES, indicating a general inclination towards adopting clean energy solutions. In Sweden, the analysis uncovered a high level of environmental awareness among participants, with 85% of respondents expressing concern about environmental degradation. Despite this awareness, 62% of participants reported reservations about the security and affordability of energy derived from renewable sources. Additionally, 48% of respondents expressed uncertainty or ambivalence regarding the environmental benefits of RES. In France, the research revealed similar concerns among respondents regarding the security and affordability of renewable energy. 59% of participants expressed reservations about the security of energy derived from renewable sources, while 53% cited perceived high costs as a barrier to adoption. Furthermore, 41% of respondents identified underdeveloped RES infrastructure as a hindrance to wider acceptance and utilization. The quantitative data highlights the complex landscape of renewable energy perceptions and attitudes in Poland, Sweden, and France. While there is a general awareness of environmental issues and a positive inclination towards clean energy solutions, concerns about security, affordability, and infrastructure remain significant barriers to widespread adoption. These findings underscore the importance of targeted interventions and educational efforts to address these challenges and promote sustainable energy practices across Europe. Renewable energy sources (RES) represent a critical avenue for sustainable development, offering a pathway to mitigate environmental degradation and reduce dependence on fossil fuels. This study investigates public attitudes, knowledge levels, and barriers to RES adoption in rural areas of Poland, Sweden, and France, highlighting the unique socio-economic and cultural factors influencing these regions. Conducted between June 2022 and January 2023, the research utilized an online survey, gathering responses from 12,428 participants across these countries. Respondents evaluated statements on environmental responsibility, RES knowledge and application, and perceived obstacles, using a five-point Likert scale. Key findings reveal that while environmental awareness is high, significant barriers persist in the form of limited knowledge, underdeveloped infrastructure, and perceptions of high costs associated with RES. In Poland, 76% of respondents expressed a positive view of RES but cited concerns about cost and security. Swedish participants demonstrated strong environmental awareness (85%), yet 62% voiced reservations about RES affordability and reliability. French respondents similarly highlighted concerns regarding infrastructure and costs, with 41% identifying underdeveloped RES systems as a primary hindrance. The study underscores the importance of targeted educational campaigns and policy interventions to bridge knowledge gaps and foster greater acceptance of RES. Tailored strategies addressing local barriers—such as financial incentives, community-based advocacy, and infrastructure investments—are essential to overcoming these challenges. By exploring diverse perspectives and barriers across the three countries, this research contributes valuable insights to the broader discourse on sustainable energy transitions in the EU.

This study evaluates the quality and dynamics of the renewable energy transition in Poland’s electricity sector during the years 2010–2023 through an integrated Fuzzy Time Series (FTS) and Fuzzy Multi-Criteria Evaluation (FMCE) methodology. The evaluation is based on five production-related criteria: the production of renewable electricity, the capacity of installed renewable energy sources, investment costs, innovation costs, and total electricity production. Contrary to trend projection and elasticity ratio methods, the new approach determines qualitative transition states (Low, Medium, High) and their transitions over time in the presence of non-linearities and partial progress. The outcome shows a protracted pre-transformational period from 2010 to 2014, with features of perpetual Low → Low transitions and high system inertia. The first qualitatively detectable transition takes place in 2015, where the renewable electricity output regime shifts from Low to Medium, symbolizing the beginning of the moderate transition phase. The Medium regime continues until 2021, with little innovation expenditure, signifying a consolidation rather than acceleration phase. The most significant transition regime shift takes place in 2022, where the system advances from Medium to High, fueled by the cumulative growth of renewable electricity output, capacity, and total electricity production. The High regime is maintained in 2023, indicating a systemic rather than a temporary transition. The results show that the transition of Poland towards renewable energy sources has been following a non-linear and regime-dependent path, with turning points marking observable qualitative state transitions rather than the beginning of trends. The FTS-FMCE approach is a powerful method for separating growth from transformation, and it has been shown to be useful for coal-dependent economies that experience a delayed but accelerating energy transition.