Introduction and Foreword
Foreword:
The International Energy Agency (IEA) presents the Energy Technology Perspectives (ETP) analysis, which provides a comprehensive, long-term view of energy system trends and technologies crucial for achieving affordable, secure, and low-carbon energy. The report highlights how technological, market, and external factors influence energy system evolution.
Key Points:
- Rapidly Growing Demand and Climate Threat: The energy system is evolving passively, and a radical shift is needed to achieve clean, secure, and economic energy supply.
- Annual Publication: ETP transitions to an annual format, focusing on timely topics and trends.
- Enhanced Online Presence: The ETP website expands to offer downloadable analysis updates, data visualizations, and sector-specific commentary.
- Tracking Clean Energy Progress: A key chapter in ETP monitors global clean energy technology development and deployment.
Key Themes in ETP 2014
Harnessing Electricity's Potential:
The theme reflects the convergence of two trends: rapid global electricity demand and the need for increased system integration.
Key Findings:
- Coal Use Without Carbon Capture and Storage: Continued reliance on coal without carbon capture and storage is incompatible with climate change objectives.
- Natural Gas Role: Natural gas can temporarily replace coal and support variable renewable energy (VRE) integration but should be seen as a transitional fuel, not a long-term low-carbon solution.
- Variable Renewable Energy (VRE): Deployment of VRE technology is growing and becoming competitive; active management of VRE supply and demand patterns is essential.
- Electricity Storage: Multiple roles for electricity storage and competing technologies are highlighted, but storage alone is not a necessary game-changer for the future energy system.
Country Case Study: India
Overview:
India's case study is introduced as a relevant example, reflecting the country's significant energy demands and potential for transitioning to a cleaner energy future.
This summary captures the main themes, key findings, and country-specific insights from the ETP 2014 report, focusing on the potential of electricity in shaping the future energy landscape.