THE ROLE OF SYNTHETIC FUELS IN THE GLOBAL NET-ZERO EMISSIONS SCENARIOS

Abstract

 In order to achieve net zero CO₂ emissions in 2050 corresponding to the 1.5 degree target of the Paris Agreement, it is needed to remove CO₂ emissions in sectors where electrification is difficult. Diffusion of synthetic fuels can be an effective option to accomplish decarbonization in these sectors. This study aimed to quantitatively assess a role of synthetic fuels in the global netzero emission scenarios using an energy system model. The results show that synthetic fuels can be an important low-carbon energy carriers in the scenarios that meet the 1.5 degrees target, especially in the transportation sector owing to their demands for liquid fuels. The introduction of synthetic fuels also contributes to reducing electrification rate and avoiding rapid increase of hydrogen energy share, revealing their effectiveness in mitigating disruptive changes in the energy system.