Power generation is one of the prime contributors of greenhouse gases as power generation globally is largely dependent on fossil fuels. The global population rise has resulted in an increase in global energy demand, which is essential for driving economic growth. As a result, the accompanying greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from the energy sector have also increased. The trend is set to continue, driven primarily by economic growth and the rising population. There is an urgent need to decarbonise the power sector, particularly as the Paris agreement’s global 1.5oC temperature window is rapidly closing.
The global digital transition redefines the electricity value chain, including generation, transmission, distribution and consumption. Decarbonizing the power sector implies reducing total emissions in generating kilowatt-hours of electricity. Decarbonizing the power sector is necessary for transport and heating as these activities rely on electricity and will either contribute to more carbon emissions or reduce them depending on the source of power.
The adverse impact of climate change can adversely impact the overall output, viability and efficiency of power systems. According to the Resources for the Future Climate Policy Program Report on Adapting to Climate Change: The Public Policy Response (Public Infrastructure), a temperature increase results in a proportional reduction in power output. It is estimated that the gas-powered plant’s output may reduce by 3% to 4% when there is a 5.5oC increase in ambient air temperature. All forms of power generation are impacted by climate change, including renewables.
Climate change (increasing climate temperatures) can result in drought, reduction in run-off speed and evaporation of surface water. Wind power efficiency can be impacted by damaging offshore wind foundations by drifting of ice or rise in sea levels. Also, biomass power generation can be hampered as adverse weather conditions can affect the availability of the feedstocks needed to drive power delivery. Hail, strong winds and extreme temperatures can damage Solar Photovoltaic panels. The panels’ output rated at 25oC usually decreases by 0.5% for every 1oC rise in temperature; Therefore, the global rising temperature negatively impacts the efficiency of power delivery from solar PV generation plants.
It is very important that adaptation and mitigation measures are in place to ensure that the power sector is decarbonised and emissions are near zero or zero. Some measures to achieve this include:
- Utilizing low carbon-emitting fuels to drive power generation. A typical example is natural gas. Natural gas can be used to generate electricity instead of coal, a high carbon-emitting fuel.
- Improving energy efficiency in the generation, transmission, distribution and utilisation of power. Improving energy efficiency in the entire electricity value chain is essential in boosting output and an important adaptation step in taking action for the climate. This implies maximum and efficient power generation, quality power delivery and optimum power utilization.
- Deployment of Carbon capture, use, and storage (CCUS) to capture the released CO2 released during the combustion of fossil fuels. The captured CO2 can be stored in the ground. This system can be retrofitted into industrial power generation plants to reduce CO2 emissions into the atmosphere. The CO2 extracted can be used for enhanced oil recovery.
- Increasing support for renewable energy power generation and utilization. This involves setting policies, generating funds, engineering incentives and creating awareness that drives the adaptation of renewable energy for power generation.
Decarbonising the power sector is essential in our race to net zero and a safer environment post-COP27.
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