AQ Senior Specialist I POWER Engineers, Inc., a Member of WSP, MD
Abstract Description: Decarbonization is an increasingly popular term used in global climate change discussions. It can have a narrow context while also a broad context. Some think decarbonization is synonymous with CO2 capture systems, while others equate it to meeting a “Net-Zero by 2050” policy. Others use decarbonization interchangeably with “sustainability”. Decarbonization’s broad extent surprises people once seeing definitions and daily life examples. Yes; decarbonization includes the banning of fracking; but also includes conversion of coal-fired boilers to gas-firing or performing cycle efficiency improvements. Decarbonization includes CO2 capture systems on power plants; but also includes replacing a home AC unit with a higher SEER, or simply setting back your home’s thermostat by one degree. There’s a need for parties to understand what decarbonization is and what it isn’t, especially when discussing policy, regulations, strategy, and corporate goals. This presentation will define decarbonization, explain what it is, what it is not, and give examples through lists, diagrams, and charts. The current decarbonization landscape will be presented through charts and then the goals and developing technologies listed. Finally, a suggested process for decarbonization of the power industry and possible green hydrogen integration into our energy economy will be covered. A more specific understanding of decarbonization helps in developing policy, regulations, and corporate strategy by making them more specific, purposeful, understandable, measurable, achievable, and acceptable.
