This special issue on sustainable energy and environmental protection concerns with latest developments related to sustainable and renewable energy. In this editorial introduction, the editor is highlighting the different articles presented and discussed in this issue. Main area of this issue can be summarized as follows: PV (photovoltaics) and Solar Energy, Wind Energy, Hydrogen and Fuel Cell, Energy Efficiency, Eco-Design and Energy and Environment Planning and Management. The contents of this issue will be discussed in details in the following sections. (c) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.