https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/45 2026-10-23T05:45:26Z 2026-10-23T05:45:26Z Zioło, Magdalena Bąk, Iwona Spoz, Anna https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/150370 2026-10-23T05:42:03Z 2026-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: Renewable energy sources and green transformation : mapping research trends, policies, and financial instruments Authors: Zioło, Magdalena; Bąk, Iwona; Spoz, Anna Abstract: PURPOSE: This study provides a comprehensive overview of research on the role of renewable energy sources (RES) in the green transformation of economies. It identifies major research trends, thematic areas, and the role of financial mechanisms, including subsidies, tax incentives, and investments, in supporting the transition to low-carbon economies.; DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH: A systematic literature review based on Snyder's framework was conducted using Web of Science publications (2006-2025). Bibliometric and multivariate methods, including VOSviewer keyword co-occurrence analysis, Multiple Correspondence Analysis (MCA), and Ward's hierarchical clustering, were applied to identify thematic clusters and research patterns.; FINDINGS: Scientific interest in renewable energy has grown significantly, particularly after 2020. Three thematic clusters emerged: renewable energy technologies, EU energy policy and security, and sustainable development with energy transition. Three publication groups focused on financial support mechanisms, green technologies outside Europe, and European transition strategies. Financial instruments increasingly complement technological innovation and policy measures in advancing energy transition.; PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: The findings support policymakers, financial institutions, investors, and researchers by identifying effective financing instruments, research priorities, and policy directions for sustainable energy transition.; ORIGINALITY/VALUE: The study advances literature by integrating the financial dimension into bibliometric research on renewable energy and green transformation, highlighting interactions among innovation, financing mechanisms, and public policy.

2026-01-01T00:00:00Z Matuszak, Zbigniew Żabińska, Iwona Gaworski, Maksym https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/150367 2026-10-23T05:33:24Z 2026-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: Economic and energy assessment of the use of wind microturbines in selected areas of Poland : a case study Authors: Matuszak, Zbigniew; Żabińska, Iwona; Gaworski, Maksym Abstract: PURPOSE: A presentation of the economic assessment and actual performance of low-voltage small-scale wind power installations with a total height not exceeding 3 meters.; DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH: An assessment of the technical and economic feasibility of implementing residential micro-wind installations up to 3 meters in height in national prosumer systems using horizontal-axis (HAWT) and verticalaxis (VAWT) turbines designed for microscale electrical installations. The analysis examined the impact of the near-surface wind layer on the energy and economic performance of mini wind turbines. An economic analysis of the investment costs of mini wind turbines for two locations in Poland was presented. Findings: It has been shown that vertical-axis wind turbines (VAWTs) are more practical in densely built-up areas than their horizontal-axis counterparts (HAWTs). Although VAWTs have a slightly lower theoretical energy conversion efficiency, their ability to operate in variable and turbulent wind conditions without the need for constant directional adjustment ensures more stable energy production throughout the year. This is particularly important in near-surface conditions, where wind speeds are limited and the turbine can start operating even at low wind speeds. Local atmospheric and terrain conditions have a decisive impact on the actual performance of the analysed installations. Simulations conducted for two different regions of Poland indicate that in areas with higher wind speeds, such as the coast, annual energy production can reach levels that enable a rapid return on investment—even within about 5 years with the support of subsidy programs. In contrast, in the central parts of the country, where average wind speeds are lower, mini-turbines serve as a supplement to other energy sources rather than a standalone solution, due to the reduction in wind speed caused by the ruggedness of the terrain.; PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: The results presented here can be used during the planning phase of small wind turbine projects to assess their economic and energy-related viability.; ORIGINALITY/VALUE: It has been demonstrated that mini wind turbines can complement photovoltaic systems, creating hybrid systems with greater stability. Their peak production occurs during the fall and winter months, when photovoltaic panels generate the least amount of energy, which improves the overall energy balance and supports sustainable development goals. Low-voltage mini wind turbines with limited height represent a promising option for the decentralization of energy production in Poland. Along with rising costs of traditional energy sources and regulatory support, they can contribute to increasing the energy self-sufficiency of individual users, thereby supporting the development of sustainable local energy structures.

2026-01-01T00:00:00Z Bernat, Maria Maciejasz, Marta Szewczyk, Mirosława Bruska, Anna https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/150366 2026-10-23T05:11:53Z 2026-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: The oligopolistic structure of the cement market in Poland after complete takeover by foreign capital Authors: Bernat, Maria; Maciejasz, Marta; Szewczyk, Mirosława; Bruska, Anna Abstract: PURPOSE: The purpose of this article is to analyse the structure and degree of concentration of the Polish cement market and to assess whether it exhibits persistent oligopolistic characteristics in the context of increasing integration into global value chains and evolving competitive pressures.; DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH: The study applies a quantitative analysis of market structure based on firms’ financial data, in particular sales revenues derived from financial statements. Market concentration is assessed using the Herfindahl–Hirschman Index (HHI) and concentration ratio (CRk), while structural stability over time is evaluated using the Proportional Similarity Index (PSI). The analysis covers the period 2019–2024.; FINDINGS: The results confirm that the Polish cement market is highly concentrated and exhibits stable oligopolistic features. The leading firms maintain dominant market positions over time, and structural changes are limited, as evidenced by consistently high PSI values. The sector remains strongly influenced by a small number of multinational corporations integrated into global production networks.; PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: The findings highlight the need for continued antitrust monitoring and competition policy enforcement in the cement sector. Given the high level of concentration and history of anti-competitive conduct, regulatory oversight remains essential to ensure effective competition and to protect downstream users such as the construction industry.; ORIGINALITY/VALUE: The article contributes to the literature by combining traditional concentration measures with a structural similarity approach to assess both the level and stability of market concentration in a capital-intensive, oligopolistic industry. It also provides updated empirical evidence on the Polish cement market in the context of global integration and environmental cost pressures.

2026-01-01T00:00:00Z Szewczyk, Mirosława Rajchel, Anna Rajchel, Dariusz https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/150351 2026-10-22T12:40:46Z 2026-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: Analysis of market concentration and profitability in the Polish sugar industry, 1999-2025 Authors: Szewczyk, Mirosława; Rajchel, Anna; Rajchel, Dariusz Abstract: PURPOSE: The primary aim of this research is to analyse the degree of market concentration using the Herfindahl-Hirschman Index (HHI) and to evaluate the profitability of sugar production enterprises operating in Poland between 2019 and 2025. Furthermore, the study seeks to verify whether the size of a company’s market share constitutes a significant factor differentiating its financial performance.; DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH: The empirical analysis is based on individual financial data (profit and loss accounts and balance sheets) from the four dominant entities in the Polish sugar sector: Krajowa Grupa Spożywcza, Pfeifer & Langen Polska, Südzucker Polska, and Nordzucker Polska. A panel data approach was employed to capture both cross-sectional differences and changes over time. Market concentration was measured using the HHI based on sales revenues, while profitability was assessed using the Return on Assets (ROA) indicator.; FINDINGS: The study confirms that the Polish sugar market operates as an oligopoly with a moderate degree of concentration, with HHI values ranging from 1,459 to 2,286. The panel regression model indicates that market share is not a statistically significant determinant of ROA.; PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: The findings indicate that variations in profitability cannot be explained solely by market share, suggesting that other firm-level determinants may also be significant. Management should consider the sector’s high sensitivity to international market conditions and the potential risks associated with further trade liberalisation, such as agreements with Mercosur countries.; ORIGINALITY/VALUE: This research provides an up-to-date empirical assessment of the relationship between market structure and profitability in a key EU sugar-producing country. It contributes to the existing literature by demonstrating the separation between market power and financial performance in a highly regulated yet volatile agricultural commodity market.

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