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Emission Pathways Towards a Low-Carbon Energy System for Europe: A Model-Based Analysis of Decarbonization Scenarios

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Listed:
  • Karlo Hainsch
  • Thorsten Burandt
  • Konstantin Loffler
  • Claudia Kemfert
  • Pao-Yu Oei
  • Christian von Hirschhausen

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to showcase different decarbonization pathways for Europe with varying Carbon dioxide (CO2) constraints until 2050. The Global Energy System Model (GENeSYS-MOD) framework, a linear mathematical optimization model, is used to compute low-carbon scenarios for 17 European countries or regions. The sectors power, low-and high-temperature heating, and passenger and freight transportation are included, with the model endogenously constructing capacities in each period. Emission constraints differ between different scenarios and are either optimized endogenously by the model, or distributed on a per-capita basis, GDP-dependent, or based on current emissions. The results show a rapid phase-in of renewable energies, if a carbon budget in line with established international climate targets is chosen. It can be shown that the achievement of the 2° target can be met with low additional costs compared to the business as usual case, while reducing total emissions by more than 30%

Suggested Citation

  • Karlo Hainsch & Thorsten Burandt & Konstantin Loffler & Claudia Kemfert & Pao-Yu Oei & Christian von Hirschhausen, 2021. "Emission Pathways Towards a Low-Carbon Energy System for Europe: A Model-Based Analysis of Decarbonization Scenarios," The Energy Journal, , vol. 42(5), pages 41-66, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:enejou:v:42:y:2021:i:5:p:41-66
    DOI: 10.5547/01956574.42.5.khai
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Konstantin Löffler & Karlo Hainsch & Thorsten Burandt & Pao-Yu Oei & Claudia Kemfert & Christian Von Hirschhausen, 2017. "Designing a Model for the Global Energy System—GENeSYS-MOD: An Application of the Open-Source Energy Modeling System (OSeMOSYS)," Energies, MDPI, vol. 10(10), pages 1-28, September.
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