AUTHOR=Li Xiang , Damartzis Theodoros , Stadler Zoe , Moret Stefano , Meier Boris , Friedl Markus , Maréchal François 

TITLE=Decarbonization in Complex Energy Systems: A Study on the Feasibility of Carbon Neutrality for Switzerland in 2050

JOURNAL=Frontiers in Energy Research

VOLUME=Volume 8 - 2020

YEAR=2020

URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/energy-research/articles/10.3389/fenrg.2020.549615

DOI=10.3389/fenrg.2020.549615

ISSN=2296-598X

ABSTRACT=Decarbonization gained prominence with the witnessed rise of temperature over recent years, particularly in the aftermath of the adoption of the Paris agreement for limiting the temperature increase within 2◦C until 2050. Biogenic resources are explicitly indicated as carbon-neutral from LCA (Life Cycle Assessment) perspective by the IPCC, shedding light on the carbon-neutral society by applying BECC (Biogenic Energy Carbon Capture) for creating negative emissions. This article proposes a novel modeling approach by introducing carbon layers with specification on the principal carbon sources and sinks based upon an optimization algorithm, in order to solve the carbon loop issue in a highly inter-connected energy system due to increasing penetration of biomass and CCUS (carbon capture, use and storage). This study contributes to quantifying biogenic and non-biogenic carbon footprints, and optimizing the circular economy associated with a net zero-emission society, in favor of policy-making for sustainable development in long terms.