LOW CARBON TECHNOLOGY

Low Carbon Technology

Abstract

This paper examines the complexities and challenges of modelling a regional energy system in the context of Wales. Despite a wealth of studies at national level, as most research does not address UK regions and devolved administrations separately, it can be challenging to derive insights into the regional potential of different technologies and transition pathways,. However, as technologies that tackle energy supply and demand at a distributed level become both available and necessary in order to achieve energy efficiency and emission reduction targets, much of the responsibility for their implementation is increasingly passed to regional and local governments. In addition, research has shown that the effectiveness of such measures is dependent on the marginal emission factor of the system generator at the time they are implemented. Consequently broad average factors do not accurately reflect their impact. The Welsh Government (WG) has set ambitious targets for both carbon emission reductions and renewable power generation capacity. Set against the background of limited devolved powers - decisions on large scale power generation still lie with central UK government - and an integrated power network in which Wales is a net power exporter, the WG policy goals present an interesting modelling problem.

Abstract1

Introduction2

Discussion3

Methods6

Literature search6

Analysis and discussion7

Recommendations8

Conclusion8

Low Carbon Technology

Introduction

Having played a leading role in the global emergence of a carbon economy, as a major coal exporter and centre of heavy industry from the mid-nineteenth through much of the twentieth century's, Wales has now made a very strong commitment to a low carbon future. Following a process of political devolution and the recent establishment of a regional Government with a statutory duty to promote sustainable development, Wales is pursuing ambitious targets for emissions reductions and renewable energy generation. These goals are supported by the belief that Wales has an advantage in the abundance of renewable natural resources in its disposition, but may come into question in the context of the limited powers devolved to the Welsh Government (WG) in key areas such as the energy sector (Hughes 2010, 60-65).

The inherent complexity of isolating the Welsh energy system, given the level of integration with the rest of the UK and the limitations of responsibility devolved to the WG introduce a number of difficulties in terms of defining system boundaries, while at the same time raise questions about the level of intervention possible under various policy scenarios. This discussion does not deal with the complex policy and institutional landscapes associated with regional politics and multiple levels of governance as such, although research on these topics with regards to Wales is ongoing (Hawkes 2010, 77-87). Rather, we are interested in the practical difficulties these boundaries introduce in modelling the implementation and impacts of low carbon policies and technologies and delivering the necessary knowledge and tools to stakeholders at the appropriate level in order to facilitate the transition to a low carbon future for the region (ERP 2010, 48).

Discussion

Wales is a relatively small country, with a population of just under three million, located on western ...