Electricity Production and Greenhouse Gas Emissions

Perhaps two of the most critical issues facing electric utility managers, power engineers, and all of humankind are the impact and mitigation of greenhouse gas emissions associated with electricity generation. These are issues that, unlike many utility issues, are not limited by state, region, or nation. This article explains the basic issues that are facing the global community regarding the emission of carbon dioxide (CO2) gas that is degrading our environment and, most significantly, the environment of generations to come. This article deals with the current state of a potential international agreement to curtail greenhouse gases and the subsequent underlying issues. A theory suggests that apparent reluctance to agree to an international treaty by the United States is directly tied to the process of electric utility reforms. The proposed Kyoto Treaty is explained as well as the consequences of its implementation. The current facts surrounding electric utility generation and CO
₂
gas emissions are explained, as are some mitigation efforts.