Future Simulations

These are some of the simulations we are building or would like to build.

Electric Utility Strategy Sim

About 40% of US carbon emissions come from the generation of electricity -- and dozens of new power plants are being planned to meet the projected growth in demand. Decisions we make now about power -- whether to continue to invest in coal and other fossil fuels, or whether we move to renewable sources and promote more conservation -- will have a huge impact on atmospheric carbon levels.

So what investments in new electric generation capacities such as gas, coal, wind, biomass, and nuclear and demand reduction could decrease CO2 emissions? At what cost? How do uncertainties like possible carbon taxes or cap/trade systems affect strategy? This model was built by a team from Sustainability Institute and Rocky Mountain Institute, including Don Seville, Lena Hansen, Lori Siegel, and Andrew Jones. It should be useful for utility executives, public utility commissions, and others interested in knowing what kind of utility mix we suggest in order to address climate change.

We’re developing an interactive simulation and accompanying video that explore the strategic options available to an electrical utility as it works to reduce its contribution to global climate change amid uncertainties such as possible regulations.

Cars Model

How can we reduce CO2 emissions from vehicles in the U.S.? How would changes in fuel type, fuel efficiency, fraction alternative vehicles, miles traveled, and population growth affect emissions over time? The model is being built by Tom Fiddaman and Andrew Jones.

Buildings

Businesses, governments and others are looking at their current and planned infrastructure. What changes in the number, efficiency, size, and equipment within buildings and factories could change their emissions over time?

Cities

What can cities do to reduce emissions within their three main sectors of transportation, electric generation, and commercial/residential/industrial? Mayors, especially those in low-lying areas, are very aware of the potentially devastating effects of climate change. This model will help cities plan for a sustainable future.

Feedback

If you’ve seen An Inconvenient Truth,you know that a number of feedback loops are in play in the climate system. This model will examine how global feedback processes such as changes to albedo will affect climate change.