The role of low carbon fuels towards net-zero in integrated assessment models and energy system models: A critical review

IF 16.3 1区工程技术 Q1 ENERGY & FUELS

Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews Pub Date : 2025-03-19 DOI:10.1016/j.rser.2025.115608

Zipeng Liu , Meixi Zhang , Christian Bauer , Russell McKenna

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引用次数: 0

Abstract

Low-carbon fuels (LCFs) are crucial for achieving net-zero CO₂ emission goals in integrated assessment model (IAM) and energy system model (ESM) scenarios. The absence of a standardized LCF classification system and inconsistencies in modeling approaches have obscured the integration of various LCFs within these models and makes a meaningful comparison of scenario outcomes difficult. This study addresses these issues by conducting a comprehensive critical review of the representation of LCFs in IAMs and ESMs, focusing on the fuel's role in shaping net-zero emission futures. We categorize LCFs into key groups, including electrification, hydrogen, synfuels, and biofuels. Our analysis reveals substantial gaps in technical modeling, lifecycle emissions data, incomplete modeling of environmental impacts beyond CO₂ emission, and discrepancies in LCF applications across sectors. To enhance the accuracy of future scenarios, we recommend adopting a unified LCF classification system, standardized input data, and more detailed sectoral applications. Additionally, we advocate for the integration of Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) into IAMs and ESMs to improve the evaluation of LCFs' full environmental impacts, providing a more comprehensive foundation for net-zero emission pathways.

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来源期刊

Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 工程技术-能源与燃料

CiteScore

31.20

自引率

5.70%

发文量

1055

审稿时长

62 days

期刊介绍： The mission of Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews is to disseminate the most compelling and pertinent critical insights in renewable and sustainable energy, fostering collaboration among the research community, private sector, and policy and decision makers. The journal aims to exchange challenges, solutions, innovative concepts, and technologies, contributing to sustainable development, the transition to a low-carbon future, and the attainment of emissions targets outlined by the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews publishes a diverse range of content, including review papers, original research, case studies, and analyses of new technologies, all featuring a substantial review component such as critique, comparison, or analysis. Introducing a distinctive paper type, Expert Insights, the journal presents commissioned mini-reviews authored by field leaders, addressing topics of significant interest. Case studies undergo consideration only if they showcase the work's applicability to other regions or contribute valuable insights to the broader field of renewable and sustainable energy. Notably, a bibliographic or literature review lacking critical analysis is deemed unsuitable for publication.