Cutting Carbon Emissions
164% forecast increase in CO2 emissions from power generation by 2050
Global energy demand and CO2 emissions are predicted to more than double by 2050, with fossil fuels remaining the dominant source of energy. The challenge facing the world is to meet rising energy demand whilst moving to a low carbon economy. Meeting this global challenge will require a shift to new and improved technology in sectors such as power generation, transport and the built environment.
Reducing Emissions
The generation of electricity and heat, for use primarily in domestic and commercial buildings and industry, represents 25% of all greenhouse gas emissions. Ceres micro-generation products have the potential to substantially reduce the carbon footprint of the built environment.
Eliminating Power Generation Losses
66% of the fuel burned for power generation is lost
According to the International Energy Agency, more efficient production and use of energy could be the single largest and most cost-effective contributor to reductions in CO2 emissions. The adoption of Combined Heat and Power (CHP), which utilises the thermal energy that is normally wasted, can significantly improve energy supply efficiency.
Increasing Efficiency
According to the World Business Council for Sustainable Development, buildings consume 40% of the world's primary energy, making it the most energy-hungry sector. The use of a Ceres CHP unit installed in a home is a compelling alternative to centralised generation with its associated transmission and heat losses.
Reducing Energy Demand
$20 trillion cumulative investment required in energy supply infrastructure by 2030
To meet the world's growing energy demands, cumulative investment of over $20 trillion* will be needed by 2030 across the energy supply chain. The power sector will require $11 trillion of investment in new power generation plants and associated transmission and distribution systems. Micro-generation improves resource utilisation and lessens the need for investment in centralised power generation and grid infrastructure.
Improving Energy Security
Mass market deployment of Ceres CHP products generating electricity and heat at the point of use would reduce the need for investment in centralised power stations and grid infrastructure. The high efficiency energy conversion of the fuel cell also improves energy security by reducing the overall use of scarce resources and by having the capability to operate on a range of conventional and alternative fuels.
*Source: World Energy Outlook, 2006.