Public health improvement by reducing air pollution: a strategy for the transition to renewable energy

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Public health improvement by reducing air pollution: a strategy for the transition to renewable energy

Amina Badreddine, Hadjira Larbi Cherif

University of M'Hamed Bougara (Algeria)

ABSTRACT

An important outcome for improving public health from the transition to renewable energy sources (wind, solar, and hydropower) is a significant reduction in emissions of important air pollutants. They are particulate matter (PM), nitrogen oxides (NOx), sulphur oxides (SOx) in contrast to fossil fuel resources. Experts estimate that the abandonment offossil fuel combustion in the United States alone would avoid 53,000 deaths per year, which amounts to more than $600 billion in monetised health benefits. In Algeria, there is a significant discrepancy between the declared national goals for the transition to renewable energy sources and their actual implementation. The article purpose is to identify reasons for this discrepancy and to develop effective mechanisms for its gradual reduction. The article argues that the main reasons for these discrepancies are limited determination and lack of a coherent plan, as well as structural obstacles, such as significant financial support for fossil fuels, a strong group of interests of oil and gas companies, problems with financing, and the dominance of monopolies in renewable energy projects. The article proposes a course correction for Algeria to realise its enormous solar, wind, and other clean energy potential through targeted reforms that will attract sustainable investment. Algeria needs a well-planned and long-term approach to development and diversification that meets the goals of the global climate agenda. The article offers and explains the gradual removal of fuel subsidies, liberalisation of energy markets, expansion of training initiatives, and exploration of new financial mechanisms. In order to utilise renewable energy resources, it is crucial for Algeria to have unwavering political will to overcome resistance from traditional fossil fuel industries.

Keywords: public health; mortality; air quality; air pollution; concentrated solar power; energy transition; photovoltaic power; renewable energy.

INTRODUCTION

Renewable energy has risen to prominence globally amid intensifying debates surrounding its current and future role in sustainable environmental strategies (Lund, 2007; Jacobson & Delucchi, 2011). With growing recognition of the threats posed by continued fossil fuel dependence, countries and organizations increasingly advocate for clean energy criteria to safeguard the climate (IPCC, 2022; REN21, 2022). Algeria has substantive potential, particularly across solar and wind resources, yet remains heavily reliant on oil and gas revenue (Zahraoui et al., 2021; Fares, 2021; Bouraiou et al., 2020).

This paper reviews the Algerian context regarding channels and barriers impacting renewable energy development in relation to the country's stated ambitions. Despite having delineated targets envisioning an expanded renewable energy footprint, including generating 8,000 MW by 2020 and 22,000 MW between 2015-2030, Algeria has installed just 400 MW of solar photovoltaics capacity as of 2023 (Koussa & Koussa, 2014). The constraints underlying this disconnect between policy vision and on-ground implementation remain and need to be more scrutinised. Growth has thus far been severely hampered by a complex combination of obstacles, such as a lack of political will, subsidies for fossil fuels, resistance by incumbents, and insufficient incentives. To fully realise Algeria's renewable potential, these systemic barriers must be addressed through a strategic realignment that prioritises creating favourable circumstances for sustainable investment.

So, despite abundant renewable energy potential, why has Algeria struggled to develop solar, wind and other renewables over the past two decades, repeatedly missing targets? More specifically:

* What are the key technological, political, economic and social barriers that have severely obstructed renewable energy growth in Algeria until now?

* How can these myriad barriers be systematically overcome, through what policy, regulatory, institutional and strategic changes?

* What concrete recommendations and roadmap can unlock Algeria's immense renewable energy potential through realigning incentives and conditions towards sustainable investments at scale?

The problem statement highlights Algeria 's failure to capitalise on promising solar, wind and other resources so far, the complex mix of obstacles behind this poor outcome, and the need for solutions spanning systemic reforms enabling renewable growth aligned with national development priorities. Framing this multi-dimensional challenge as a series of questions sharpens the analysis while retaining focus on practical pathways towards an improved renewable energy transition. By evaluating factors impeding the growth of renewables to date alongside potential measures to overcome impediments, this analysis aims to chart a strategic course correction for enabling Algeria to deliver on its immense solar (Fares, 2021), wind and complementary clean energy promise. With hydrocarbon reserves declining, transitioning towards an increasingly decarbonised energy system harnessing the country 's significant renewable resources offers economic diversity alongside climate change mitigation and local environmental dividends.

In addition to accomplishing these objectives, utilising Algeria's abundant renewable energy resources is essential for mitigating the harmful consequences of air pollution. When compared to burning fossil fuels, a number of studies have shown that switching to renewable energy sources like wind, solar, and hydropower can result in a major decrease in emissions of important air pollutants like particulate matter (PM), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and sulphur oxides (SOx). In addition to promoting economic diversification, switching to renewable energy offers observable advantages including reduced air pollution and climate mitigation, especially as fossil fuel sources run out. This study looks at the barriers to the development of renewable energy in Algeria and considers how more funding for these projects could lower air pollution. Algeria can simultaneously solve the urgent problem of air pollution and realise the full potential of renewable energy by including measures like improved infrastructure and education.

LITERATURE REVIEW

Overview of renewable energy sources and adoption

In recent decades, renewable energy has garnered growing interest as a sustainable substitute for fossil fuels. In 2019, renewable energy made up approximately 16% of the total global energy investment and accounted for 6.92% of primary energy consumption (Gielen et al., 2019; Angelis-Dimakis et al., 2011). Various studies contend that in order to tackle climate change and energy security concerns, renewable energy must make up the majority of future energy systems (Jacobsson & Johnson, 2000; Lund, 2007; Sathaye et al., 2011). The literature examines several key sources of renewable energy, namely wind, hydropower, geothermal, biomass, and ocean energy. The advantages of renewable energy sources compared to fossil fuels include their plentiful supply, ability to be replenished, and positive environmental impacts (Hoogwijk, 2004; Kurt et al. 2006; Vakulchuk et al., 2020; Mohtasham, 2015; Shahzad, 2012; Fares, 2021). Nevertheless, the sporadic and comparatively expensive nature of certain renewable energy sources like solar and wind (Lebbihiat et al., 2021), is frequently identified as a hindrance to their widespread adoption (Moriarty &Honnery, 2012; 2016).

Government policies and public perception of renewable energy

Government policies are crucial in fostering the advancement of renewable energy. Policy methods like as feed-in tariffs, renewable portfolio standards, tax incentives, and subsidies are commonly util ised (Wang et al., 2010; Aguirre & Ibikunle, 2014). Nevertheless, certain governmental initiatives can hinder the competitiveness of renewable energy sources (Wang et al., 2010). The growth of community renewable energy initiatives is significantly influenced by public approval (Walker, 1995; Walker & Devine-Wright, 2008).

Global scenarios for high renewable energy penetration

Various global studies have examined potential scenarios for achieving aggressive renewable energy goals between 2030 and 2050. These studies have included multiple assessments of energy systems that rely entirely on renewable sources (Lund, 2007; Zafar, 2023; Bouznit et al., 2020). Nevertheless, critics contend that the practicality of using renewable energy sources (Carpejani et al. 2020) on a large scale may be hindered by physical and economic limitations, unless significant advancements in technology are made (Moriarty &Honnery, 2012; 2016).

The impact of renewable energy transition

For the relation between renewable energies and air pollution, numerous studies have modelled the potential air pollution emission reductions from increased renewable electricity generation globally or in specific countries.Jacobson (2009) modelled conversion of 143 countries' all-purpose energy to wind, water, and solar. Associated air pollution deaths were projected to decrease by 70% in 2050 compared to business- as-usual fossil fuel emissions. For China specifically, green energy development modelled by Dai et al. (2016) was projected to reduce SO2 emissions by 7.3% and NOx emissions by 8.6% in 2050 compared to a reference scenario. Xie et al. (2018) found that a SO2 tax and increased renewable energy in the Beijing- Tianjin-Hebei region of China could cut SO2 emissions by up to 27.4% and NOx emissions by 7.8% in 2020 relative to 2012. Cofala et al. (2020) estimated SO2 and NOx emissions in India could decline by 90% and PM2.5 by 60% in a sustainable development scenario emphasising renewables and energy efficiency. For the United States, Abel et al. (2018) calculated increasing solar PV to 17% of eastern US electricity generation could reduce NOx, SO2, and PM2.5 by 20% in the most polluted cities. The avoided mortality was valued at over $13 billion annually. Goodkind et al. (2019) estimated eliminating US fossil fuel combustion would prevent ~53,000 PM2.5- and ozone-related deaths per year, worth over $600 billion in monetised health benefits.

Health impacts of air pollution

Multiple studies have also highlighted large avoided mortality from cleaner household energy transitions, especially for rural populations relying on biomass cookstoves. Global atmospheric modelling indicates residential energy is responsible for about 40% of population-weighted mean PM2.5 exposure in South and East Asia (Chafe et al., 2014). Advanced cookstoves, biogas digesters, and transition to liquefied petroleum gas or electric cooking can dramatically improve household air quality and prevent millions of deaths annually in developing countries (Puzzolo et al., 2016). Life cycle analyses consistently demonstrate lower lifecycle air pollutant emissions from wind, solar, hydro, and some biomass energy systems compared to fossil fuel power plants (Abbasi & Abbasi, 2000; Ellabban et al., 2014; Zhu & Cheung, 2013).

However, some renewable sources like bioenergy and geothermal energy can still produce PM, NOx, and SOx emissions. The net emission reductions depend on the specific technology, feedstock, and pollution control measures utilised.

While many studies model emission changes, fewer have assessed how increased renewable generation affects measured air pollutant concentrations and associated health impacts. Novan (2015) found that renewable portfolio standards in the US reduced NO2 concentrations by 2.5% on average. Xie et al. (2023) report that provinces in China with higher renewable shares from 2005-2017 saw greater reductions in PM2.5, PM10, and SO2 concentrations. Modelling by Galimova et al. (2022) estimates that transitioning to 100% renewable energy globally could reduce PM2.5 concentrations by 57-99% across world regions in 2050, resulting in 1.08 to 4.26 million avoided deaths annually from reduced air pollution exposure. Tarin- Carrasco et al. (2022) project that increased renewables in Europe could cut PM2.5 concentrations by 1525% in 2050 compared to a current policy scenario, avoiding around 49,000 and 125,000 premature deaths per year. However, research also indicates that the air quality benefits of renewable deployment can be diminished by factors like grid congestion and curtailment of renewable generation (Monforti-Ferrario & Blanco, 2021). The air pollution reductions achievable through renewable energy expansion are also projected to vary significantly by location depending on the existing energy mix, growth patterns, and climate policy implementation.

METHODOLOGY, THEORY AND CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK

This study utilises a qualitative review and analysis technique to evaluate the reasons why Algeria hasn't made more progress with renewable energy during the past two decades, despite the country's stated national objectives, and the relationship between increased renewable energy and decreased air pollution. Considering the intricate socio-technical and political dynamics involved, conducting a thorough literature analysis is a suitable methodology for gaining a comprehensive understanding of the interactions among different economic, policy, and social factors that impede progress (Creswell & Creswell, 2017; Fragkos and Siskos, 2022).

To assess the current state, trends, obstacles, policy priorities, and co-benefits for air quality surrounding the growth of renewable energy in Algeria, published academic literature, official publications, and energy data were examined. To find peer-reviewed research on Algeria's renewable energy potential, adoption, policies, and transitions as well as their effects on emissions of air pollutants, a thorough evaluation of the literature was done. Relevant phrases such as “Algeria”, “renewable energy”, “air pollution”, “health”, “emissions”, “PM2.5”, “nitrogen oxides”, and “sulphur oxides” were searched in databases such as ScienceDirect, Scopus, and Google Scholar. For perspective, studies measuring the advantages of renewable energy for public health and air quality worldwide and in other nations were also evaluated.

The considerations mentioned in the study by Abdmouleh et al. (2015) help explain why there is a divergence between Algeria's national renewable energy goals and the actual implementation on the ground. Proposed integrative solutions involve implementing specific measures in areas such as updated governance, enhanced electrical infrastructure, increased funding channels, and education centres that focus on renewable energy. The goal of this study is to examine the hypothesis that Algeria can tap into its significant renewable energy resources more quickly by strategically addressing key political and economic obstacles and enhancing its overall capacity. This will make it easier to switch to using less fossil fuel and relying more on clean energy sources within the country, aligning with the imperative of long -term ecological sustainability.

Official renewable targets, strategies, and progress indicators were determined by looking through Algerian government policy documents, laws, and data from the energy ministry. Background was supplied by global outlooks from institutions such as IRENA and REN21. The analysis reveals various factors that impede the growth of renewable energy, including limitations in technological capabilities, distortions caused by subsidies for fossil fuels, insufficient training of skilled personnel, and inadequacies in incentive mechanisms designed to stimulate investments.

Data on renewable energy sources and Algerian policy aims were combined with literature-based insights through a synthesis approach. Thematic analysis was used to identify the main barriers preventing the expansion of renewable energy sources and the corresponding improvements in air quality. On the basis of context, expertise, and examples from the literature, measures to remove obstacles were created. The approach mainly uses a qualitative synthesis of the available data. More research should use quantitative methods to assess various transition routes and co-benefits for Algeria's air quality, such as scenario modelling and statistical analysis of the links between renewable energy sources and air pollution. Interviews with stakeholders would offer different viewpoints.

RESULTS

Hasni et al. (2021, p.5) stated that Algeria has proposed the construction of three power plants, with an individual capacity of 300 MW, which will be in addition to the current Hybrid Power Plant located in Hassi R'Mel. This was undertaken to facilitate the implementation of a 1050 MW power plant throughout the timeframe of 2006 to 2014.

Khouildat et al. (2019, p.287) stated that upon analyzing the report from the United Nations Commission regarding the current situation and future prospects, it becomes evident that the commission has taken charge of the NEAL (company developing projects in the production of electricity and heat from renewable energies) project, focusing on clean energy production. According to Hasni et al. (2021, p.5), this project is the first of its kind to involve both public and private entities, and it has been handed over to the Global Environment Facility (GEF) of the World Bank. The same authors noted that there were intentions to construct four thermal power plants capable of storing a total of approximately 1200 MW. UNECA (2012) mentioned that subsequently, an annual increase of 500 MW would be implemented until 2023, followed by a further increase of 600 MW until 2030. Sellami et al. (2016) pointed out that the 8,000 MW project was slated to be finished by 2020. UNECA (2012) mentioned that all access has been obstructed. The same source noted that a 22,000 W scheme was implemented in 2011, with the superior share allocated to CSP (Concentrated Solar Power). However, UNECA (2012) indicated that in 2014, the decision was made to eliminate CSPs and dedicate 13,000 MW specifically for PV. Nevertheless, UNECA (2012) stated that there is presently no publicly available information concerning the performance of these facilities.

> Driving renewable energy adoption through regulations and procedures

According to Hasni et al. (2021), it is undeniable that there are several institutions that were created with the purpose of advocating for renewable energies, and this quantity is expected to increase. The same authors noted that the justification for these innovations is that they are comprehensible only to the state. However, Hasni et al. (2021) stated that contrary to this, other countries with similar circumstances have demonstrated the opposite outcome. They mentioned that the NEAL Company, which is a wholly Algerian public-private partnership, stands as the sole enterprise that has accomplished a project effectively, exemplifying a triumph in neighboring nations and other locations through the Algerian firm NEAL's duplication. Hasni et al. (2021) further explained that NEAL, a project development firm, has the capability to utilize financial and technical engineering expertise, and can also participate in the ownership of the project company, which oversees operations, construction, and marketing. Additionally, the authors pointed out that in 2002, certain regulations were enacted to specifically target renewable energy. They stated that the Electricity Act was implemented to provide a structure for its advancement and to prioritize the utilization of renewable energy sources, but this foundation was not followed as legislation that adhered closely to the original wording was enacted. Hasni et al. (2021) remarked that the 2012 Electricity and Gas Act placed a high importance on renewable energy sources when it comes to regulatory structures, with the electrical market undergoing deregulation and a stock exchange suspended by a market operator, enabling the implementation of a feed-in law which grants access to the power market for renewable sources. The authors concluded that the determination was that without any indication of political resolve, it was impossible to predict any results.

Hasni et al. (2021) thus examined the particular challenges impeding the advancement of renewable energy generation. The same authors believe it would have been more beneficial to cease the practice of offering financial assistance to fossil fuels, which currently results in an annual cost of $15 billion (Table 1).

Table 1. Energy subsidies (billion US dollars)

This article is a comprehensive review of Algeria's endeavours in the past twenty years to establish renewable energy sources. Several ambitious goals were established, including the generation of 8,000 MW from renewable energy sources by 2020 and 22,000 MW between the years 2015 and 2030. Nevertheless, there has been limited advancement thus far. Chinese enterprises have added approximately 400 MW of solar PV capacity in the past two years, as of 2023.

Furthermore, we have conducted an examination of the primary obstacles that have impeded the expansion of renewable energy in Algeria, and we can succinctly outline them as follows:

* Insufficient determination from political leaders and absence of a well-defined strategy for renewable energy;

* There are significant subsidies provided for fossil fuels, amounting to approximately $15 billion annually;

* Resistance from the influential oil and gas industry - Challenges related to securing funding and attracting private capital;

* Ambiguous and volatile regulatory framework - Monopolistic management of projects by Sonelgaz, a state-owned corporation;

* Insufficient training and lack of skilled workforce;

* Incentives and support mechanisms.

Several measures have been put in place to encourage the use of renewable energy sources, including:

* Implementation of legal provisions ensuring feed-in tariffs for a duration of 20 years;

* Establishment of a National Fund for Renewables to cover any additional expenses;

* Simplifying the process of obtaining licenses and acquiring land;

* Provision of financial resources for the implementation of experimental projects and training programs.

Nevertheless, these efforts have not been adequate to foster substantial expansion. Renewable energy sources have not been successful in gaining momentum in Algeria due to the lack of a well-planned and sustainable development strategy that aligns with global climate objectives. Additionally, there is a need for economic diversification in the country. Furthermore, we put out the subsequent points as proposed remedies and recommendations:

* Eliminating government financial support for fossil fuels;

* Challenging the dominant control of the energy sector;

* Executing the deregulation steps outlined in the 2012 Electricity Act;

* Drastically enhancing the scope of training and education programs to cater to the needs of a burgeoning cohort of energy experts;

* Investigating novel financing strategies, such as those based on blockchain technology.

The projected global transition to renewable energy is expected to drastically reduce the emission of major air pollutants, averting millions of pollution -related deaths each year. Further research is required to optimise the health-related benefits of strategically deploying renewable energy sources in various worldwide locations. The socioeconomic advantages of promoting the growth of renewable energy globally should take climate change mitigation and improved air quality into account.

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