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SWITCH-China: A Systems Approach to Decarbonizing China's Power System.
- Source :
-
Environmental Science & Technology . 6/7/2016, Vol. 50 Issue 11, p5467-5473. 7p. - Publication Year :
- 2016
-
Abstract
- We present an integrated model, SWITCH-China, of the Chinese power sector with which to analyze the economic and technological implications of a medium to long-term decarbonization scenario while accounting for very-short-term renewable variability. On the basis of the model and assumptions used, we find that the announced 2030 carbon peak can be achieved with a carbon price of ~$40/tCO2. Current trends in renewable energy price reductions alone are insufficient to replace coal; however, an 80% carbon emission reduction by 2050 is achievable in the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change Target Scenario with an optimal electricity mix in 2050 including nuclear (14%), wind (23%), solar (27%), hydro (6%), gas (1%), coal (3%), and carbon capture and sequestration coal energy (26%). The co-benefits of carbon-price strategy would offset 22% to 42% of the increased electricity costs if the true cost of coal and the social cost of carbon are incorporated. In such a scenario, aggressive attention to research and both technological and financial innovation mechanisms are crucial to enabling the transition at a reasonable cost, along with strong carbon policies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
Details
- Language :
- English
- ISSN :
- 0013936X
- Volume :
- 50
- Issue :
- 11
- Database :
- Academic Search Index
- Journal :
- Environmental Science & Technology
- Publication Type :
- Academic Journal
- Accession number :
- 116309631
- Full Text :
- https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.est.6b01345