Energy and the environment
The provision of clean and affordable energy is a prerequisite for economic development. Electrical power generation and the provision of heat currently account for over 30 per cent of man-made CO2 emissions and also contribute to NOx and SOx emissions.
The energy sector is the largest emitter of man-made CO2 but also provides the greatest opportunity and the widest range of options to deliver substantial reductions.
A significant move away from conventional coal-fired power plants will be required in favour of:
- gas-turbine based systems;
- fuel cells;
- renewables;
- clean coal (with carbon capture and storage); and
- nuclear.
These changes will need to be accompanied by measures to reduce demand, including:
- higher efficiency electrical products; and
- higher levels of insulation.
A combination of these systems will deliver a significant reduction in CO2 emissions.
Such changes should bring a range of other benefits, including improved air quality.
