Open AccessAn Analysis of the Optimal Mix of Global Energy Resources and the Potential Need for Geoengineering Using the CEAGOM Model
Author(s) -
Anasis John G.,
Khalil Mohammad Aslam Khan,
Lendaris George G.,
Butenhoff Christopher L.,
Bluffstone Randall
Publication year - 2017
Publication title -
global challenges
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 2056-6646
DOI - 10.1002/gch2.201700040
Subject(s) - greenhouse gas , climate change , efficient energy use , environmental economics , global warming , energy mix , environmental science , climate change mitigation , software deployment , natural resource economics , environmental resource management , computer science , economics , engineering , electricity generation , ecology , power (physics) , physics , quantum mechanics , electrical engineering , biology , operating system
Abstract Humanity faces tremendous challenges as a result of anthropogenic climate change caused by greenhouse gas emissions. The mix of resources deployed in order to meet the energy needs of a growing global population is key to addressing the climate change issue. The goal of this research is to examine the optimal mix of energy resources that should be deployed to meet a forecast global energy demand while still meeting desired climate targets. The research includes the unique feature of examining the role that geoengineering can play in this optimization. The results show that some form of geoengineering is likely to be needed by the middle of the 21st century as part of the optimal energy strategy in order to meet a specified climate goal of 580 ppm CO 2 ‐eq greenhouse gas concentration (or ≈2 °C average global temperature rise). The optimal energy mix would need to rely on energy efficiency, nuclear, geothermal, hydro, and wind energy for over 50% of global energy needs. In addition, the overall cost of the optimal energy mix is sensitive to the assumed amount of achievable energy efficiency, carbon taxes, deployment of electric vehicles, and the assumed discount rate.