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Chapter 5: Strategic Approaches to Energy Transitions

Introduction

The energy transition from fossil fuels to renewables is a complex process that requires strategic planning and coordination. Chapter 5 delves into the frameworks and strategies that nations and organizations use to navigate this transition, emphasizing the importance of resilience, innovation, and long-term planning.

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Energy Transition Frameworks

Energy transitions are guided by strategic frameworks that outline pathways to achieve energy sustainability and decarbonization.

Types of Energy Storage Systems

LThe Role of Integrated Resource Planning (IRP) Integrated Resource Planning is a strategic approach used by utilities to balance energy supply with future demand. IRPs consider multiple factors, including:
• Energy Efficiency: Prioritizing demand-side management to reduce consumption.
• Resource Diversification: Incorporating a mix of energy sources to minimize risk.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Ensuring that energy solutions are economically viable.
National Energy Transition Plans Countries around the world have developed energy transition plans that set targets for reducing carbon emissions and increasing renewable energy use.
• Example: Japan’s Energy Transition: Japan has committed to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. The country’s plan includes scaling up offshore wind power, investing in hydrogen technology, and promoting energy efficiency.

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Decarbonization Strategies

Electrification of Energy Systems Electrifying sectors like transportation and heating reduces emissions, especially when electricity is sourced from renewables. Electric vehicles (EVs), heat pumps, and electric public transit are essential components of this strategy.

Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) CCUS technologies capture CO₂ emissions from industrial processes and power plants, preventing them from entering the atmosphere. Captured carbon can be stored underground or repurposed for industrial use.

Case Study: The Sleipner CO₂ Storage Project in Norway: This project has successfully stored millions of tons of CO₂ beneath the North Sea, demonstrating the potential of CCUS in reducing emissions.

Hydrogen as an Energy Carrier Green hydrogen, produced using renewable energy, is emerging as a key player in decarbonization. It can be used for heavy transport, industrial processes, and energy storage.
Challenges: High production costs and the need for significant infrastructure development are barriers to widespread adoption.

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Building Resilient Energy Systems

Resilience in energy systems ensures the capacity to withstand and recover from disruptions, such as natural disasters or cyberattacks.
Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) DERs include solar panels, wind turbines, and energy storage systems located close to where energy is consumed. They increase energy security and reduce transmission losses.

• Microgrids: Localized grids that can operate independently from the main grid, providing energy security during outages.

Climate Adaptation Strategies

• Hardening Infrastructure: Upgrading power lines, substations, and other critical assets to withstand extreme weather.

• Investing in Nature-Based Solutions: Using natural landscapes, like wetlands and forests, to protect energy infrastructure from flooding and erosion.

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Reflection and Review

Chapter 5 emphasized strategic approaches to energy transitions, decarbonization, and building resilient systems. As energy leaders, your ability to develop and implement these strategies will shape the global energy future.
Review Questions:

1. What are the main components of an Integrated Resource Plan (IRP)?

2. How does carbon capture technology contribute to decarbonization, and what are its limitations?

3. Explain the concept of distributed energy resources and their importance in building resilient energy systems.

Discussion Prompt: “What are the economic and social implications of large-scale electrification, and how can they be managed effectively?”

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Key Terms

• Integrated Resource Planning (IRP): A strategic approach for balancing energy supply and demand.
• CCUS (Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage): Technology for capturing and storing CO₂ emissions.
• Distributed Energy Resources (DERs): Energy systems located close to consumption points.
• Microgrids: Local energy grids that enhance resilience and reliability.

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