India’s potential for integrating solar and on- and offshore wind power into its energy system
Lu, T.; Sherman, P.; Chen, X.; Chen, S.; Lu, X.; McElroy, M. (2020). India’s potential for integrating solar and on- and offshore wind power into its energy system. Nature Comm. 11(1): 10 pp. https://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41467-020-18318-7
In: Nature Communications. Nature Publishing Group: London. ISSN 2041-1723; e-ISSN 2041-1723, more
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| Authors | | Top |
- Lu, T.
- Sherman, P.
- Chen, X.
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- Chen, S.
- Lu, X.
- McElroy, M.
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| Abstract |
This paper considers options for a future Indian power economy in which renewables, wind and solar, could meet 80% of anticipated 2040 power demand supplanting the country’s current reliance on coal. Using a cost optimization model, here we show that renewables could provide a source of power cheaper or at least competitive with what could be supplied using fossil-based alternatives. The ancillary advantage would be a significant reduction in India’s future power sector related emissions of CO2. Using a model in which prices for wind turbines and solar PV systems are assumed to continue their current decreasing trend, we conclude that an investment in renewables at a level consistent with meeting 80% of projected 2040 power demand could result in a reduction of 85% in emissions of CO2 relative to what might be expected if the power sector were to continue its current coal dominated trajectory. |
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