Energy Research & Policy Analysis

Energy Transition Initiative

Energy Research & Policy Analysis

Our research evaluates alternative technology pathways and policy options for decarbonizing energy systems. Our team is developing a suite of modeling tools to understand the interaction between clean energy sources, energy storage, smart distributed energy systems, the electrification of transportation, and more. From our extensive analysis of the research, which includes energy systems modeling, academic work on energy system transitions, and case studies from around the world, we identify policy measures that support the transition to a clean, efficient and equitable energy system.

Selected Energy Research
A graph showing CO2 emissions reductions in million metric tons per year for the global organic chemical sector under an economy-wide net-zero CO2 constraint by 2050.

Mitigating CO2 Emissions from the Organic Chemical and Plastics Industry

By
  • William Shobe,
  • Wade E. Fritzeen,
  • Patrick R. O’Rourke,
  • Jay G. Fuhrman,
  • Lisa M. Colosi,
  • Sha Yu,
  • Scott C. Doney,
  • Haewon C. McJeon,
  • Andrés F. Clarens
    • This paper advances the Global Change Analysis Model’s (GCAM) portrayal of chemicals to assess a full set of decarbonization options and identify specific actions that the organic chemical sector can take to reduce emissions.
    A map showing states that have electricity sector and economy-wide zero carbon goals from 2030-2050.

    State-Level Planning for Decarbonization

    By
  • William Shobe,
  • Maya Domeshek,
  • Thomas Bowen,
  • Chrissie Ivanova,
  • Karen Palmer
    • The report looks at the unique challenges facing states as they work towards decarbonization and try to balance lower emissions with the energy demands of households and corporations.