2024 journal article
Drivers and implications of alternative routes to fuels decarbonization in net-zero energy systems
NATURE COMMUNICATIONS, 15(1).
open access via www.nature.com (publisher PDF)
UN Sustainable Development Goal Categories
7. Affordable and Clean Energy
(Web of Science; OpenAlex)
8. Decent Work and Economic Growth
(Web of Science)
9. Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
(Web of Science)
12. Responsible Consumption and Production
(Web of Science)
13. Climate Action
(Web of Science)
Source: Web Of Science
Added: June 17, 2024
Abstract Energy transition scenarios are characterized by increasing electrification and improving efficiency of energy end uses, rapid decarbonization of the electric power sector, and deployment of carbon dioxide removal (CDR) technologies to offset remaining emissions. Although hydrocarbon fuels typically decline in such scenarios, significant volumes remain in many scenarios even at the time of net-zero emissions. While scenarios rely on different approaches for decarbonizing remaining fuels, the underlying drivers for these differences are unclear. Here we develop several illustrative net-zero systems in a simple structural energy model and show that, for a given set of final energy demands, assumptions about the use of biomass and CO 2 sequestration drive key differences in how emissions from remaining fuels are mitigated. Limiting one resource may increase reliance on another, implying that decisions about using or restricting resources in pursuit of net-zero objectives could have significant tradeoffs that will need to be evaluated and managed.