Chris Brierley edited This_requires_a_massive_expansion__.tex  over 7 years ago

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This requires a massive expansion of low-carbon energy. energy (Fig. \ref{fig:elec}).  The main sources of low-carbon energy are solar, offshore and onshore wind, biomass burning and nuclear. There is also the possibility of "carbon capture and storage" - this involves burning fossil fuels, but preventing the carbon dioxide reaching the atmosphere and piping it back underground instead. This technology has not even reached demonstration phase in the UK yet. All existing projections of the make-up of the energy system in 15 years imply a substantial amount of energy generation from onshore wind. Currently installed onshore wind and solar are considered \href{https://documents.theccc.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/Sectoral-scenarios-for-the-fifth-carbon-budget-Committee-on-Climate-Change.pdf}{cost-competitive} to gas generation. On the longer-term the contribution from fossil fuels is negligible. You may not agree with these government assessments, so feel free to create your own energy projection instead using the \href{http://2050-calculator-tool.decc.gov.uk/#/calculator}{DECC Calculator}.