TRENDS AND PROSPECTS FOR THE USE OF RENEWABLE SOURCES IN POWER INFRASTRUCTURE
Paper examines current trends and prospects for the use of renewable fuels within the modern energy infrastructure amid global decarbonization efforts, tightening environmental regulations, and the need for energy security. A critical analysis is provided on the current reliance on fossil fuels and...
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General Energy Institute of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine
2025
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System Research in Energy| _version_ | 1871104424310472704 |
|---|---|
| author | Denysov, Viktor Sokolovska, Nataliia |
| author_facet | Denysov, Viktor Sokolovska, Nataliia |
| author_institution_txt_mv | [
{
"author": "Viktor Denysov",
"institution": null
},
{
"author": "Nataliia Sokolovska",
"institution": null
}
] |
| author_sort | Denysov, Viktor |
| baseUrl_str | https://systemre.org/index.php/journal/oai |
| collection | OJS |
| datestamp_date | 2026-07-18T12:57:50Z |
| description | Paper examines current trends and prospects for the use of renewable fuels within the modern energy infrastructure amid global decarbonization efforts, tightening environmental regulations, and the need for energy security. A critical analysis is provided on the current reliance on fossil fuels and the emerging necessity of transitioning to alternative energy sources. The study highlights the potential and limitations of several promising directions, including biofuels, hydrogen-based fuels, synthetic carbon-neutral liquids, and electricity as a replacement for conventional liquid and gaseous fuels. Particular attention is given to the development of hybrid fuel systems that combine traditional and renewable sources, with applications across the transportation, aviation, marine, and industrial sectors. The paper delves into current hydrogen production technologies — including green, blue, grey, and turquoise hydrogen — outlining their respective advantages and challenges. Opportunities for the modernization of thermal power plants using biomass, hydrogen, and carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies are explored. The study also addresses the growing significance of Power-to-X solutions, which convert electricity from renewables into gaseous, liquid, and chemical energy carriers. It is concluded that the future of energy lies in integrated approaches that unite renewable resources, innovative fuels, and intelligent energy management systems to ensure both environmental sustainability and energy reliability. |
| doi_str_mv | 10.15407/srenergy2025.04.004 |
| first_indexed | 2026-03-24T02:03:36Z |
| format | Article |
| fulltext |
Системні дослідження в енергетиці. 2025. 4(84) 4
ТЕХНОЛОГІЇ ЕНЕРГЕТИКИ,
ЕНЕРГЕТИЧНІ СИСТЕМИ І КОМПЛЕКСИ
_____________________________________________________________________________
ISSN 2786-7102 (Online), ISSN 2786-7633 (Print)
https://doi.org/10.15407/srenergy2025.04.004
UDC 620.92:621.311
Viktor Denysov*, PhD (Engin.), https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3297-1114
Nataliia Sokolovska, PhD, https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2175-0658
General Energy Institute of NAS of Ukraine, 172, Antonovycha St., Kyiv, 03150, Ukraine
*Corresponding author: visedp@gmail.com
_______________________________________________________________________________________
TRENDS AND PROSPECTS FOR THE USE OF RENEWABLE SOURCES IN
POWER INFRASTRUCTURE
Abstract. Paper examines current trends and prospects for the use of renewable fuels within the modern
energy infrastructure amid global decarbonization efforts, tightening environmental regulations, and the
need for energy security. A critical analysis is provided on the current reliance on fossil fuels and the
emerging necessity of transitioning to alternative energy sources. The study highlights the potential and
limitations of several promising directions, including biofuels, hydrogen-based fuels, synthetic carbon-
neutral liquids, and electricity as a replacement for conventional liquid and gaseous fuels. Particular
attention is given to the development of hybrid fuel systems that combine traditional and renewable sources,
with applications across the transportation, aviation, marine, and industrial sectors. The paper delves into
current hydrogen production technologies — including green, blue, grey, and turquoise hydrogen —
outlining their respective advantages and challenges. Opportunities for the modernization of thermal power
plants using biomass, hydrogen, and carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies are explored. The
study also addresses the growing significance of Power-to-X solutions, which convert electricity from
renewables into gaseous, liquid, and chemical energy carriers. It is concluded that the future of energy lies
in integrated approaches that unite renewable resources, innovative fuels, and intelligent energy
management systems to ensure both environmental sustainability and energy reliability.
Keywords: renewable fuels, hydrogen, biofuels, hybrid systems, Power-to-X, decarbonization, thermal
power plants, energy transition, CO₂, energy carriers.
The aim of the research is:
1. Review of current trends and prospects for the use of renewable fuels in modern energy infrastructure
in the context of global decarbonization, tightening environmental standards and the need to ensure energy
security.
2. Based on the review, propose an assessment of the prospects of approaches aimed at integrating
renewable resources, innovative fuels and smart energy management systems in order to ensure environmental
sustainability and reliability of energy supply.
1. Introduction
Current trends in the use of traditional and alternative fuels
In the context of global energy and environmental challenges [1‒11], considerable attention is paid to
the optimal use of fuel resources. Advances in technology, stricter environmental regulations and a desire to
reduce dependence on fossil fuels are shaping new trends in this area. Fossil fuels, including coal, oil and
natural gas, have been used as priority energy sources for more than 150 years and currently provide about 80
percent of the world's energy needs. At the same time, they are the main sources of environmental pollution
(Fig. 1) [12].
mailto:visedp@gmail.com
Системні дослідження в енергетиці. 2025. 4(84) 5
Figure 1. CO2 Emissions by fossil fuels
Fossil fuels are a non-renewable source of energy and have a negative impact on the environment. About
75 % of fossil fuels are used for heating and energy generation, 20 % as fuel, and the remaining is used to
produce chemicals and materials. In order to ensure sustainable development, new technologies and renewable
resources are being sought due to the rapid development of industrialization. The concept of replacing fossil
fuels with renewable energy sources is especially relevant due to the increase in the concentration of
greenhouse gases in the atmosphere as a result of the use of fossil fuels. The transition to renewable energy
sources is also becoming a priority due to the depletion of fossil fuel reserves [13]. Thus, while oil, natural gas
and coal remain the main traditional fuels [13], their use faces a number of the following limitations and
challenges:
̶ There is a decrease in availability and, accordingly, an increase in prices, which are caused by the
depletion of deposits and geopolitical factors affecting the availability of raw materials.
̶ Environmental problems caused by CO₂ and other pollutant emissions are exacerbated, necessitating
the adoption of more modern clean technologies such as carbon capture and storage (CCS).
̶ In order to increase the efficiency of traditional fuels, methods of processing and purification of the
results of use (hydrotreating, catalytic cracking, coal gasification) are being improved.
Promising alternative fuels [14, 15, 16]
The alternative fuels listed below are becoming more and more environmentally preferable and
economically competitive due to the development of their production technologies and the fairly widespread
use of supporting government legislation.
Biofuels
̶ Bioethanol and biodiesel are widely used in the transport sector, especially in the EU and the USA.
̶ Advanced biofuels (from waste, algae) – a new promising area, which, nevertheless, requires
significant investments.
Hydrogen fuel
̶ Green hydrogen (from renewable energy sources) is a very fashionable and popular direction, the
development of which, with existing technologies, is constrained by high production costs.
̶ Blue and grey hydrogen (from natural gas) are the prevailing technologies at the moment, requiring
improved ways to capture CO₂.
̶ The transportation industry is dominated by the use of hydrogen fuel cells and the growing direction
of H2 engines.
̶ In the power sector, energy storage technologies and the use of ammonia fuel are mainly being
developed.
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Synthetic and carbon-neutral fuels
̶ One of the most promising trends in the fields of aviation and shipping is the production and use of
synthetic liquid fuels based on captured CO₂ and hydrogen.
̶ Improvements in Power-to-X technologies used to convert renewable energy into liquid and gaseous
energy carriers are also considered promising.
Use of electricity as a substitute for liquid and gaseous fuels
̶ One of the main drivers of declining demand for traditional fuels in transport [17, 18] is the growing
popularity of electric vehicles.
̶ The rapid development of battery technology and charging infrastructure is significantly contributing
to the development of this area. For example, the latest news about the introduction of solid electrolytes (Fig. 2)
[19], which significantly increases the charging speed of a car, allows us to predict even greater acceleration
in this area.
̶ The same news reduces the impact of known battery recycling issues and dependence on rare earth
metals.
Figure 2. Replace the liquid electrolyte in today’s lithium-ion cells with a solid separator
Factors influencing the development of fuel technologies
1. Regulatory state support and regulation – tax incentives, emission quotas, subsidy programs for
alternative fuels.
2. Expected scientific and technological innovations – new catalysts, carbon capture and storage
methods, increasing the efficiency of fuel systems.
3. Economic factors – oil and gas prices, investments in alternative fuel infrastructure.
4. Social and environmental prospects – reducing the carbon footprint, decarbonizing transport and
industry.
Preliminary conclusions
The above preliminary analysis of current trends in the use of traditional and alternative fuels shows that
the future of the fuel industry depends on optimizing the balance between traditional and alternative energy
sources. It is clear that in the short term, traditional fuels will retain their importance, however, a gradual
transition to low-carbon and renewable alternative energy sources is inevitable. The key drivers of this
transition should be technological innovations, regulatory state regulation and changes in the structures of
integral and local energy consumption.
2. Promising technologies
Hybrid Fuel Systems
Since current trends in energy and transport are focused on improving the efficiency of fuel systems and
reducing harmful emissions, one of the key areas for this transformation is the widespread introduction of
hybrid fuel systems, which are a combination of the use of traditional and alternative energy sources. Such
Системні дослідження в енергетиці. 2025. 4(84) 7
hybrid fuel systems are already finding applications in the automotive, aviation, shipping and industrial sectors.
Examples of possible hybrid systems proposed in [20] are shown in Fig. 3 and in Table 1.
Figure 3. Example of possible hybrid system
Table 1. Parameters of the proposed options for hybrid systems [20]
Mode
SHYDP14SD10 HYDP50SD100 HYDP100SD200 HYDP500SD1000
Output Voltage 230V 230/400V 230/400V 230/400V
Output Amps 30A 95A 190A 987A
Engine Brand Perkins Cummins Cummins WEICHAI
Engine Model 403A-15G2 4BTA3.9-G2 6BTA5.9-G2 6M33G715/5
Alternator Model S0L1-S UC224D UC274ES HC534F
Control System DSE7320 DSE6120 DSE6120 DSE6120
Standard Noise Level 65 db 65 db 65 db 70 db
Communications RS485 RS485 RS485 RS485
Battery capacity 10 KWh 100 KWh 200 KWh 1000 KWh
Photovoltaic power 2KW 10KW 50 KW 200KW
Inverter power 6KW 50KW 100 KW 500 KW
Installed capacity
20KWh
50 KWh
100 KWh
500 KWh
Main types of hybrid fuel systems
1. Hybrid cars (HEV, PHEV, FCEV)
̶ Classic hybrids (HEVs) – use a combination of an internal combustion engine (ICE) and an electric
motor to reduce fuel consumption and emissions.
̶ Plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) – capable of charging from the mains, providing most electric trips.
̶ Hydrogen fuel cell hybrids (FCEVs) – run on hydrogen, generating electricity to power electric
motors.
2. Dual-fuel (bivalent) systems
̶ Gas-to-gasoline (CNG/LPG) – reduces fuel costs and CO₂ emissions.
̶ Dual-Fuel – the combined use of diesel and natural gas increases engine efficiency.
̶ Hydrogen-diesel systems are a promising area for reducing NOx emissions.
3. Hybrid systems in shipping and aviation
̶ Electro-diesel ships – use batteries in ports and when maneuvering to reduce emissions.
̶ Hybrid aircraft engines – developed to save fuel and reduce the carbon footprint.
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Benefits, Efficiencies and Challenges of Hybrid Fuel Systems
The advantages of hybrid technologies are due to their focus on optimizing fuel consumption and
increasing the efficiency of energy systems:
1. Reduction of fuel consumption ‒ up to 30‒50 % in comparison with traditional internal combustion
engines.
2. Energy recovery – using braking to recharge the batteries.
3. Optimization of operating modes – motors operate in the most economical load ranges.
4. Flexibility in the use of fuel – the ability to adapt to different types of energy carriers.
Hydraulic structures contribute to reducing the impact on the environment by:
̶ Reducing CO₂ emissions – reducing the consumption of hydrocarbon fuels.
̶ Reduction of NOx and particulate emissions – due to more complete combustion of fuel.
̶ Reducing noise levels, which is especially important in urban conditions.
Nevertheless, it is worth highlighting the tasks that are associated with:
̶ Battery production and disposal (where lithium and other rare earth metals are used).
̶ The need for enhanced infrastructure development for alternative fuels.
̶ Increased cost and complexity of maintenance.
These challenges need to be taken into account in the process of designing and improving hybrid energy
systems.
Thus, the promising areas for the development of hybrid fuel systems include:
1. Development of hydrogen technologies, namely, the integration of hydrogen fuel cells into transport
and energy systems.
2. Improvement of battery technologies ‒ reducing cost and increasing energy intensity, including
through the use of solid electrolytes.
3. Automation and intelligent control using advanced models and adaptive algorithms to optimize
functioning and energy consumption.
4. Combined use of renewable energy sources, including charging from solar and wind power plants.
Hydrogen Fuel Use: Technological Challenges and Prospects
At the present stage, hydrogen fuel is considered as one of the key solutions for the decarbonization of
transport, energy and industry. It has a high energy density, does not produce CO₂ when burned, and can be
used in various sectors of the economy. However, its large-scale implementation faces a number of
technological, economic and infrastructural challenges.
The main modern technologies for the production of hydrogen [21‒26] can be classified according to
the methods of its production:
̶ Grey hydrogen – produced from natural gas by steam reforming, but with significant CO₂ emissions.
̶ Blue hydrogen – similar to sulfur, but with carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies.
̶ Green hydrogen – obtained by water electrolysis using renewable energy sources (RES), is the most
environmentally friendly.
̶ Turquoise hydrogen – formed by the thermal decomposition of methane to produce solid carbon,
which reduces the carbon footprint.
Green hydrogen is considered to be the most successful prospect according to current estimates, but with
the current development of technology, its production is the most expensive. Schematic versions of some
methods for producing hydrogen [22] are shown in Figures 4‒8.
Системні дослідження в енергетиці. 2025. 4(84) 9
Figure 4. Schematic representation of pure (a) and hybrid (b) thermochemical cycles
Figure 5. Schematic illustration of the three water splitting methods
Figure 6. Direct and indirect biophotolysis processes of photosynthetic microorganism
Figure 7. Scheme of the zero-gap cell (left) and the electrolysis cell testing bench
Системні дослідження в енергетиці. 2025. 4(84) 10
Figure 8. Representation of the solid oxide electrolysis cell
The main areas of application of hydrogen fuel.
Use of hydrogen engines in transport:
̶ Fuel cells for automobiles (FCEVs) and other vehicles that run on electricity generated from
hydrogen [27, 28]. Like pure electric vehicles, fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) use electricity to power an
electric motor. FCEVs use electricity from a hydrogen-powered fuel cell, which distinguishes them from
battery-only electric vehicles. The main uses of hydrogen in vehicles are compressed gas, liquid, or metal
hydrides. A simplified block diagram of the use of components in fuel cell systems is shown in Figure 9 [28].
Figure 9. Simplified block diagram of the use of components in fuel cell systems
Most automotive fuel cells use a full proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) or a direct methanol
full fuel cell (DMFC), which have a polymer membrane. The use of fuel cells for cars and other vehicles allows
for greater mileage on a single charge compared to battery-powered electric vehicles.
̶ Rail transport – trains powered by hydrogen fuel cell energy are already used in developed countries
such as Germany, France, Japan and have great distribution prospects.
̶ Aviation – companies such as Airbus and Boeing are already working on the development and
deployment of hydrogen engines for passenger aircraft [29] Figure 10.
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Figure 10. Green hydrogen powers electric propulsion using the fuel cells [29]
̶ Shipping – the use of hydrogen and ammonia engines for marine vessels has prospects for wide
distribution [30]. In today's world, maritime transport is one of the key sectors of the economy. At the same
time, it is a source of critical air and water pollution problems, thus affecting the environment and increasing
the urgency of accelerating the transition to decarbonized ships. The use of alternative fuels such as hydrogen,
ammonia, methanol and battery energy storage systems in maritime transport will reduce the negative impact
on the environment (Fig. 11). The use of alternative energy carriers such as hydrogen, ammonia, methanol and
the improvement of batteries is one of the key factors in this reduction. The use of hydrogen with its almost
zero emissions significantly stimulates the development of this area. In turn, the problems of the cost of
obtaining, storing, and safety at this stage hinder the widespread introduction of hydrogen fuel.
Figure 11. Alternative fuels for maritime transportation [30]
Prospects for the use of hydrogen fuel in the field of energy:
̶ Energy storage – hydrogen can be used for seasonal energy storage from renewable energy sources
[31‒33].
Figure 12. Hydrogen storage system schematic [31]
̶ Hybrid gas turbines are already running on a mixture of natural gas and hydrogen, reducing CO₂
emissions.
̶ Hydrogen heating integration with thermal systems [34, 35]. Study [34] presents a methodology for
integrating an ethylene glycol-water (GW) system that delivers heat to a liquid hydrogen (LH2) fuel gas supply
Системні дослідження в енергетиці. 2025. 4(84) 12
system (FGSS) and controls the temperature of the battery system (Fig. 13). Fuel cells have slower dynamic
characteristics compared to traditional power sources used on marine vessels. In addition, periodic
starts/shutdowns accelerate the degradation of fuel cells. Therefore, they tend to integrate with other power
sources and energy storage systems to form a hybrid propulsion system. For example, a lithium-ion battery
with a low time constant is used, which allows the hybrid system to effectively cope with significant load
fluctuations. In turn, multiple charge/discharge cycles of the battery lead to temperature fluctuations, and a
decrease in performance and service life.
Figure 13. (a) Independent and (b) integrated GW system for LH2-HSPS
Hydrogen fuel has serious prospects for use in such industrial areas as:
̶ Metallurgy, where hydrogen fuel can replace coke in the steelmaking process (H2DRI
technologies).
̶ Petrochemistry, where hydrogen is already used in the hydrotreating of petroleum products and
the production of ammonia.
For the widespread and rapid adoption of hydrogen fuels, the following technological challenges need
to be addressed. The cost of production is determined by the fact that electrolysis requires large amounts of
cheap renewable energy. The introduction of PEM, alkaline and solid oxide electrolyzers leads to lower costs.
Brief conclusions to the subsection hydrogen fuel
Hydrogen fuel is one of the most important elements in the transition to a carbon-neutral economy.
Despite the technical and economic barriers listed above, the accelerated active development of hydrogen
technologies and political support from the authorities make it possible to create favorable conditions for their
widespread implementation in the coming decades.
3. Development of Power-to-X technologies (synthetic fuels from renewable energy sources)
Power-to-X (P2X) are technologies for converting electricity from renewable sources (RES) into other
energy carriers:
̶ Power-to-Gas (P2G) is a technology for the production of hydrogen (H₂) or methane (CH₄) using
electricity.
̶ Power-to-Liquid (P2L) – technology for the production of synthetic hydrocarbons, such as aviation
fuel and diesel, for use in vehicles.
̶ Power-to-Chemicals (P2C) – methanol and ammonia production technology for use in the chemical
industry.
The advantages of P2X technologies include:
̶ Flexibility, due to the accumulation and storage of renewable energy in the form of fuel.
̶ Decarbonization of economic sectors such as transport infrastructure, aviation and industrial
applications.
̶ Can be used with the appropriate modernization of existing infrastructure (pipelines, gas stations,
etc.).
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On the other hand, it is necessary to take into account the technological difficulties that accompany this
industry, such as:
̶ High cost of existing electrolyzers and catalysts.
̶ Additional energy consumption for fuel synthesis and transportation.
̶ The need for industrial scaling of production, which is not an easy task.
The following steps in this area seem to be predictable and promising:
̶ Development and technological improvement of electrolyzers (PEM, SOEC), which will
significantly reduce the cost of hydrogen production.
̶ Using the best practices in this area of the advanced countries of the European Union and the United
States, which are actively investing in P2X projects.
̶ Exchange of best practices with Germany, Denmark, Japan, which are leaders in the development of
P2X infrastructure.
4. Modernization of thermal power plants for biofuels and hydrogen
The relevance and importance of this technological transition is determined by the following factors:
thermal power plants provide 60 % of the world's electricity (Fig. 14) [36]; the transition of energy industries
to biofuels and hydrogen makes it possible now, and with the improvement of technologies, it will significantly
reduce CO₂ emissions; will make it possible to adapt the existing infrastructure of thermal power plants to
modern trends.
At the present stage, strict environmental standards and the depletion of fossil fuel reserves are becoming
key factors for the energy sector [37]. In this regard, the problem of modernization of thermal power plants is
of key importance. Increased requirements lead to the need to assess the consequences of aging equipment and
look for opportunities for effective modernization of energy facilities. In particular, one of the trending areas
of research is the issues of improving the efficiency of thermal power plants and minimizing the negative
impact on the environment.
Figure 14. Regional electricity generation by fuel (in %) in 2019. BP Statistical Review of World Energy 2020 [36]
Системні дослідження в енергетиці. 2025. 4(84) 14
The most promising ways to modernize TPPs today are:
1️ Burning biomass and biogas, which makes it possible to replace the use of coal and natural gas.
2. Use of a mixture of natural gas with up to 50 % H₂ in hybrid gas turbine technology.
3. Expanding the use of CCS (Carbon Capture & Storage) technology to capture CO₂ emissions.
4️ Conversion of coal-fired thermal power plants to use biofuel or hydrogen.
Economic efficiency of modernization of equipment for thermal power plants is considered and
analyzed in [38].
The main difficulties in upgrading thermal power plants include the high cost of equipment
modernization, limited volumes of available biofuel, the difficulties of storing and transporting hydrogen.
The following modern projects are known:
̶ hydrogen turbines are being tested in Japan (Mitsubishi, GE);
̶ the conversion of thermal power plants to biofuel is being carried out in Germany and Denmark;
̶ in the USA (Hydrogen Hubs), hydrogen combustion projects are being implemented.
5. Discussion
Based on the materials presented in the article, it can be concluded that the energy transition to
alternative renewable fuel sources is technologically feasible, as well as economically and environmentally
justified in the medium and long term. Each of the areas considered – biofuels, hydrogen, synthetic fuels via
Power-to-X (P2X) and electrification – can and already occupies a niche in the evolving energy landscape and
plays a complementary rather than a competitive role.
Hydrogen economy technologies, despite their inherent limitations associated with high costs and the
need to accelerate the development of the necessary infrastructure, have a high degree of versatility in these
application sectors, from transport and heating to power generation and industry. The development of green
hydrogen technologies, integration with fuel cells and hybrid energy systems will form the basis for their
scalability. However, such issues as the efficiency of electrolysis, the safety of hydrogen storage and
transportation remain critical issues that hinder widespread adoption.
Hybrid fuel systems are a practical transitional solution that allows the use of existing infrastructure.
They allow the aggregate use of traditional and renewable fuels. The use of hybrid fuel systems in the
automotive, aviation and marine industries can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and their impact
on the environment. However, on the way to improving the efficiency of hybrid fuel systems, challenges such
as battery recycling, dependence on rare earth elements, and the need for complex energy management
algorithms need to be addressed.
A promising direction for providing flexibility and supporting network balancing is the development of
Power-to-X technologies. These technologies are potentially promising for storing and converting excess
renewable electricity into other forms, such as hydrogen, synthetic liquid fuels and chemicals. In turn, the task
arises to significantly scale them up and reduce the cost of electrolyzers and catalysts.
Retrofitting thermal power plants with biofuels and hydrogen is an effective way to decarbonize existing
fossil fuel-based infrastructure. However, the high cost of equipment upgrades, limitations in the availability
and preparation of biomass, and technical challenges in hydrogen combustion must be carefully considered.
An important point is the regulatory and financial support of technological modernization. Scaling up
the use of renewable fuels depends heavily on public policies, international cooperation and investment
incentives. A predictable regulatory environment and targeted support mechanisms (subsidies, carbon pricing,
quotas) can accelerate adoption, reduce the risks of innovation, and increase the economic attractiveness of
innovation.
Thus, the energy transition is not a one-solution path. It requires a systematic approach that encompasses
different technologies, stakeholders and infrastructures working in synergy. An important point is the
development of integrated strategies that combine technological innovation, regulatory foresight and economic
pragmatism.
Системні дослідження в енергетиці. 2025. 4(84) 15
6. Conclusion
Renewable fuels are becoming an important part of the global energy transition. Their development
depends on technological progress, investment and public policy. In the coming decades, their role in the
energy sector will only grow, ensuring a balance between environmental sustainability and energy security.
The global transition to low-carbon energy requires the large-scale development of renewable fuels. The most
important areas include power-to-X technologies, hydrogen economy, modernization of thermal power plants
and integration with renewable energy sources. These trends are shaping the future of energy, reducing
dependence on fossil fuels and the carbon footprint. The prospects for the use of renewable fuels are directly
related to the development of new technologies and the modernization of existing energy infrastructure. Power-
to-X, hydrogen economy, modernization of thermal power plants and integration of renewable energy sources
are shaping the future of carbon-neutral energy. In the next 10-20 years, we can expect: the successful
introduction of green hydrogen, the development of the global market for synthetic fuels, the transition of
thermal power plants to low-carbon technologies, the formation of hybrid energy systems. The future of energy
lies in integrated solutions that combine renewable energy sources, innovative fuels and intelligent energy
management systems.
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ТЕНДЕНЦІЇ ТА ПЕРСПЕКТИВИ ВИКОРИСТАННЯ
ВІДНОВЛЮВАНИХ ДЖЕРЕЛ ЕНЕРГІЇ В ЕНЕРГЕТИЧНІЙ
ІНФРАСТРУКТУРІ
Віктор Денисов*, канд. техн. наук, https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3297-1114
Наталія Соколовська, PhD, https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2175-0658
Інститут загальної енергетики НАН України, вул. Антоновича, 1️72, Київ, 031️50, Україна
*Автор-кореспондент: visedp@gmail.com
Анотація. У статті розглядаються сучасні тенденції та перспективи використання
відновлюваних видів палива в енергетичній інфраструктурі на тлі глобальних викликів
декарбонізації, зростання екологічних вимог та необхідності енергетичної безпеки. Проведено
аналіз сучасного стану використання традиційних паливних ресурсів та обґрунтовано необхідність
поступового переходу до альтернативних джерел енергії. Зокрема, охарактеризовано переваги та
обмеження таких напрямів, як біопаливо, водневе паливо, синтетичні вуглецево-нейтральні рідини,
а також електроенергія як заміна рідкому та газоподібному паливу. Окрему увагу приділено
розвитку гібридних паливних систем, що поєднують традиційні та альтернативні джерела енергії
в транспортному, авіаційному, морському та промисловому секторах. Детально досліджено
технології виробництва, зберігання та застосування водню, включаючи зелений, блакитний, сірий і
бірюзовий водень, з акцентом на їх перспективність і техніко-економічні виклики. Проаналізовано
можливості технологічної модернізації теплових електростанцій з використанням біопалива,
водню та технологій уловлювання вуглецю (CCS). Розглянуто напрям Power-to-X, що дозволяє
конвертувати енергію з ВДЕ у газоподібні, рідкі та хімічні енергоносії. Зроблено висновок, що
майбутнє енергетики пов’язане з інтеграцією відновлюваних ресурсів, інноваційних палив і
цифрових систем керування, що забезпечуватимуть баланс між екологічною стійкістю та
енергетичною надійністю.
Ключові слова: відновлюване паливо, водень, біопаливо, гібридні системи, Power-to-X,
декарбонізація, теплова електростанція, енергетичний перехід, CO₂, енергоносії.
Надійшла до редколегії: 20.07.2025
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3297-1114
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2175-0658
|
| id | systemreorg-article-920 |
| institution | System Research in Energy |
| keywords_txt_mv | keywords |
| language | English |
| last_indexed | 2026-07-19T01:23:52Z |
| publishDate | 2025 |
| publisher | General Energy Institute of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine |
| record_format | ojs |
| resource_txt_mv | systemreorg/74/f12c7504718f05ae7a67b0f1264b9574.pdf |
| spelling | systemreorg-article-9202026-07-18T12:57:50Z TRENDS AND PROSPECTS FOR THE USE OF RENEWABLE SOURCES IN POWER INFRASTRUCTURE Тенденції та перспективи використання відновлюваних джерел енергії в енергетичній інфраструктурі Denysov, Viktor Sokolovska, Nataliia renewable fuels, hydrogen, biofuels, hybrid systems, Power-to-X, decarbonization, thermal power plants, energy transition, CO₂, energy carriers. відновлюване паливо, водень, біопаливо, гібридні системи, Power-to-X, декарбонізація, теплова електростанція, енергетичний перехід, CO₂, енергоносії. Paper examines current trends and prospects for the use of renewable fuels within the modern energy infrastructure amid global decarbonization efforts, tightening environmental regulations, and the need for energy security. A critical analysis is provided on the current reliance on fossil fuels and the emerging necessity of transitioning to alternative energy sources. The study highlights the potential and limitations of several promising directions, including biofuels, hydrogen-based fuels, synthetic carbon-neutral liquids, and electricity as a replacement for conventional liquid and gaseous fuels. Particular attention is given to the development of hybrid fuel systems that combine traditional and renewable sources, with applications across the transportation, aviation, marine, and industrial sectors. The paper delves into current hydrogen production technologies — including green, blue, grey, and turquoise hydrogen — outlining their respective advantages and challenges. Opportunities for the modernization of thermal power plants using biomass, hydrogen, and carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies are explored. The study also addresses the growing significance of Power-to-X solutions, which convert electricity from renewables into gaseous, liquid, and chemical energy carriers. It is concluded that the future of energy lies in integrated approaches that unite renewable resources, innovative fuels, and intelligent energy management systems to ensure both environmental sustainability and energy reliability. У статті розглядаються сучасні тенденції та перспективи використання відновлюваних видів палива в енергетичній інфраструктурі на тлі глобальних викликів декарбонізації, зростання екологічних вимог та необхідності енергетичної безпеки. Проведено аналіз сучасного стану використання традиційних паливних ресурсів та обґрунтовано необхідність поступового переходу до альтернативних джерел енергії. Зокрема, охарактеризовано переваги та обмеження таких напрямів, як біопаливо, водневе паливо, синтетичні вуглецево-нейтральні рідини, а також електроенергія як заміна рідкому та газоподібному паливу. Окрему увагу приділено розвитку гібридних паливних систем, що поєднують традиційні та альтернативні джерела енергії в транспортному, авіаційному, морському та промисловому секторах. Детально досліджено технології виробництва, зберігання та застосування водню, включаючи зелений, блакитний, сірий і бірюзовий водень, з акцентом на їх перспективність і техніко-економічні виклики. Проаналізовано можливості технологічної модернізації теплових електростанцій з використанням біопалива, водню та технологій уловлювання вуглецю (CCS). Розглянуто напрям Power-to-X, що дозволяє конвертувати енергію з ВДЕ у газоподібні, рідкі та хімічні енергоносії. Зроблено висновок, що майбутнє енергетики пов’язане з інтеграцією відновлюваних ресурсів, інноваційних палив і цифрових систем керування, що забезпечуватимуть баланс між екологічною стійкістю та енергетичною надійністю. General Energy Institute of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine 2025-11-21 Article Article application/pdf https://systemre.org/index.php/journal/article/view/920 10.15407/srenergy2025.04.004 System Research in Energy; No. 4 (84) (2025): System Research in Energy; 4-17 Системні дослідження в енергетиці; № 4 (84) (2025): Системні дослідження в енергетиці; 4-17 2786-7102 2786-7633 en https://systemre.org/index.php/journal/article/view/920/819 Copyright (c) 2025 Viktor Denysov, Nataliia Sokolovska https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/zero/1.0 |
| spellingShingle | renewable fuels hydrogen biofuels hybrid systems Power-to-X decarbonization thermal power plants energy transition CO₂ energy carriers. Denysov, Viktor Sokolovska, Nataliia TRENDS AND PROSPECTS FOR THE USE OF RENEWABLE SOURCES IN POWER INFRASTRUCTURE |
| title | TRENDS AND PROSPECTS FOR THE USE OF RENEWABLE SOURCES IN POWER INFRASTRUCTURE |
| title_alt | Тенденції та перспективи використання відновлюваних джерел енергії в енергетичній інфраструктурі |
| title_full | TRENDS AND PROSPECTS FOR THE USE OF RENEWABLE SOURCES IN POWER INFRASTRUCTURE |
| title_fullStr | TRENDS AND PROSPECTS FOR THE USE OF RENEWABLE SOURCES IN POWER INFRASTRUCTURE |
| title_full_unstemmed | TRENDS AND PROSPECTS FOR THE USE OF RENEWABLE SOURCES IN POWER INFRASTRUCTURE |
| title_short | TRENDS AND PROSPECTS FOR THE USE OF RENEWABLE SOURCES IN POWER INFRASTRUCTURE |
| title_sort | trends and prospects for the use of renewable sources in power infrastructure |
| topic | renewable fuels hydrogen biofuels hybrid systems Power-to-X decarbonization thermal power plants energy transition CO₂ energy carriers. |
| topic_facet | renewable fuels hydrogen biofuels hybrid systems Power-to-X decarbonization thermal power plants energy transition CO₂ energy carriers. відновлюване паливо водень біопаливо гібридні системи Power-to-X декарбонізація теплова електростанція енергетичний перехід CO₂ енергоносії. |
| url | https://systemre.org/index.php/journal/article/view/920 |
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