Smart energy technologies

The development of information technologies allowed digitalization in different fields, as in, for instance, the engineering field, which is one of the most challenging fields, since smart supported solutions can bring important benefits to society in general. The energy sector is already experiencing gradual digitalization with important advances to be made in the upcoming next decades. Moreover, the role of smart energy technologies is a significant one in the ongoing energy transitions, since it can ensure various technological upgrades, especially in the case of hybrid energy systems or in different energy generation technologies in general. Efficiency improvement of energy technologies, processes, as well as specific system components is possible through the implementation of smart technologies. Additionally, environmental footprints of different energy technologies could also be reduced by the implementation of smart and Internet of Things (IoT) supported devices or products. However, the development of smart energy technologies needs to be provided in a controlled manner to reach sustainable criteria. Namely, the rapid rise in various smart technologies is potentially causing fast consumption of limited raw resources needed for assembly of electronic equipment; on the other hand, we are potentially being faced with the increased generation of electronic waste and release of other pollutants. Development of smart technologies should be carefully monitored to ensure long-term feasibility and environmental suitability. Finally, the progress of smart energy technologies strongly depends on further advances in the development of electronic components, software solutions, sensor technologies, and general network infrastructure. Smart energy technologies are for certain an opportunity for humanity, which brings important and useful benefits. This special issue is related to selected papers from the 4th International Conference on Smart and Sustainable Technologies (SpliTech2019), which was held in Split and Bol (Island of Brač), Croatia, in June 2019. The SpliTech2019 event linked various engineering professions and provided a platform for a vibrant and sounding discussion between researchers and professionals from the industry. The conference hosted over 200 delegates from 35 countries worldwide. The focus of the conference was directed to the role of smart technologies in the technological development of societies as well as the impact of the smart technologies on the use of resources. Over 200 presentations were delivered and related to the fundamental and applied research from interdisciplinary research topics. Tutorials, workshops, as well as round-table discussions were organized to promote research-based solutions with industrial applications. A traditional, “Meet the Editor” workshop was organized and hosted distinguished editors from reputable peer-review journals to support young and less experienced authors. Finally, I would like to express my appreciation to the keynote and invited speakers, to the technical program committee members, session chairs, reviewers, and to the valuable authors for their general contribution. Special thanks to the SpliTech2019 organization team, who made this event possible and to the conference sponsors for their continuous support. Special thanks to Prof. Dr. Ibrahim Dincer for his overall support and efforts during the initial preparation as well as for the realization of this special issue. Prof. Dr. Sandro Nižetić would also like to acknowledge the support of the Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering and Naval Architecture together with the University of Split and to the IEEE Communications Society.