Evaluation of Energy Technologies to Realize Sustainable Systems

Abstract

Degradation of the global environment and depletion of resources are threatening sustainable development of humankind In particular, climate change caused by increasing greenhouse gases is one of the most serious issues in analyzing energy systems. This paper aims at proposing frameworks to investigate the sustainability and at estimating technologies to realize sustainable energy systems For this purpose, we first defined the index of sustainability limitations on resource depletion and emissions. Sustainability of mineral and energy resources were evaluated based on the index Estimation indicated that energy resources and CO₂ are judged to be unsustainable, and that we should introduce technologies to reduce energy consumption and CO₂ emissions Then life cycle energy requirements were assessed on solar power generation systems as representatives of the technologies. Through the life cycle assessment, we quantitatively evaluated measures to improve life cycle energy requirements and capital costs At the same time, we clarified the direction of research and development required for the technologies to realize sustainable energy system.