A major Princeton University-led analysis concludes there’s a range of economically beneficial and technologically feasible options for reaching “net-zero” U.S. greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. The study offers granular analysis of the technologies and deployment pathways that could transform top-line targets to on-the-ground changes to the U.S. energy system in different regions.
The researchers modeled a range of pathways that involve varying levels of renewable power increases, building and vehicle electrification, bioenergy, carbon capture and storage, nuclear energy, enhanced carbon “land sinks” via better forest and farm practices, and more. They conclude that all of the pathways result in net energy-sector employment increases and benefit public health by cutting air pollution.