Energy Systems Consulting Perspectives

The Power of Energy Modeling: Illuminating the Path to Clean Air

Posted by OnLocation on May 18, 2023 3:40:15 PM

For decades, the world has been grappling with the challenge of achieving clean air, striving to reduce pollution and minimize the impact of human activities on the environment. Amidst the complexity of the global energy landscape, energy modeling has emerged as an indispensable tool for policymakers, scientists, and other stakeholders. In this blog post, we will explore the vital role that energy modeling has played in guiding the transition to cleaner energy systems, making the quest for clean air a calculated and achievable endeavor, rather than a mere shot in the dark.

Topics: Energy Policy, Alternative Technologies, Integrated Modeling, Clean Energy, Emissions

Effluent Guidelines for Coal: The Often-Overlooked Regulations Shaping the Energy Industry

Posted by OnLocation on Apr 24, 2023 10:30:00 AM

Energy industry decision-makers and analysts have focused on the highest profile Biden Administration initiatives: the Inflation Reduction Act and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (aka, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act). Most recently, the Administration proposed tighter-than-expected vehicle emission standards that would dramatically push up sales of zero-emission vehicles; in the case of light-duty cars and trucks, to two-thirds of sales by 2032. But with the focus on the Administration’s biggest actions, other important regulatory actions may, if not lost in the shuffle, receive less attention than they deserve. In this blog post we will focus on one example of a lower-profile rule – effluent guidelines for steam-electric plants – which may accelerate coal plant retirements, plus brief mentions of other upcoming rules. We then explain why modeling can, and should, be used to help industry and policy makers evaluate the impact of federal rules and response strategies.

Topics: Energy, Environmental Regulation, NEMS Model, Coal, Wastewater