Structural Changes in Energy System - Key-Factors in Reducing Environmental Burden

Panel: Panel 5: Energy Policy for a Sustainable Environment

Author:
Martti Kätkä, Imatran Voima Oy

Abstract

The main environmental problems of energy systems are caused by emissions to the atmosphere. Emissions of SO2 and NOx contribute to acidic precipitation that is harmful for forests and lakes. Emissions of CO2 contribute to the threat of global climate change. There are, of course, other environmental impacts of energy systems, like ambient air quality, land use and treatment of solid wastes, but they are more or less local. They do not pose a threat to sustainable development.

There are three guidelines for sustainable energy policy. Firstly: energy efficiency, secondly environmental technology and thirdly structural changes in energy economy. Energy saving is not motivated by depletion of energy sources. There are huge reserves of cheap fossil fuels for many generations. The reason that energy saving is important is the fact that environmental risks associated to burning of fossile fuels are too great.

By using efficient flue gas treatment it is possible to reduce acidic emissions of fossil fuels. By advanced technology like IGCC plants it is possible to reduce the specific CO2 emissions. The potentials of structural changes in energy system have not been fully utilised in many countries. These potentials include introduction of district heating networks to major cities, enhanced utilisation of cogeneration in connection with district heating and in industrial back-pressure power. It is also important to recognise the value of nuclear energy and hydropower in reducing environmental burden. The problems related to these alternatives are of political nature rather than being real threats to sustainable environment.