The role and value of BECCS in the USA
Author(s)
Mersch, Matthias
Dejan, Roghayeh
Moustafa, Nadin
Sunny, Nixon
Mac Dowell, Niall
Type
Report
Abstract
This study assesses the role of bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS) in the deep decarbonisation of the US energy system. We evaluate the impacts of the existing policy support measures, such as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) and Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), for achieving a net-zero economy. Three major regional grids (CAISO, MISO, and ERCOT) are analysed, with six scenarios per regional grid for a total of 18 illustrative scenarios. We compare low-carbon power generation, energy storage, and CDR technologies to assess least-cost electricity system evolutions, relying on data from regional electricity system operators (ESOs) and government projections. Three core scenarios (reference scenario without emission constraint, netzero power system by 2035, net-negative power by 2050 for overall net-zero) are created to represent varying climate ambitions. These are further divided based on the inclusion of policy support measures, providing insights into their impact on the low-carbon transition. The results are evaluated using key performance metrics, such as the cost of electricity supply, size and composition of the generation mix, gross value added, and job creation over time.
Date Issued
2024-01-13
Citation
The role and value of BECCS in the USA, 2024, pp.1-44
Publisher
Drax Group Plc
Start Page
1
End Page
44
Journal / Book Title
The role and value of BECCS in the USA
Identifier
https://www.drax.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Role-and-value-of-BECCS-in-the-US_Final_Report.pdf
Place of Publication
London, UK
Article Number
1