A Policy and Economic Comparative Study of Carbon Capture & Storage (CCS) and Renewable Energy Technologies in Australia within a Carbon-Constrained World

Abstract

This study assessed potential contributions of the renewable energy technologies (RETs) and CCS technologies in reducing carbon emissions and meeting energy demand in the Australian National and Wholesale Electricity Markets consistent with Australian Governmental policies, at the least cost to society by 2049-50. It suggested that government’s current post-2020 carbon reduction target will result in the lowest capacity expansion cost by employing both the RETs and CCS technologies compared to implementing more ambitious reduction targets.