The Namibian Electrical Energy Mix and Its Implications for Air Quality and Climate Variability

Type Journal Article - Journal of Power and Energy Engineering
Title The Namibian Electrical Energy Mix and Its Implications for Air Quality and Climate Variability
Author(s)
Volume 4
Issue 03
Publication (Day/Month/Year) 2016
Page numbers 19-30
URL http://www.scirp.org/journal/PaperInformation.aspx?paperID=64710
Abstract
The urgent need for sustainable energy choices, local sustainable value creation, and reduction of
import dependencies and non-sustainable resource use in Namibia cannot be over emphasised.
This study was conducted with the ultimate goal to provide the basis for accurate energy fuel mix
and climate change monitoring, and reporting and planning for addressing a global problem at
local/domestic level. The energy consumption and production data for the country were used with
International Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and International Energy Agency (IEA) conversions,
and carbon footprint calculation tools to determine the GHG emissions and air pollutants per type
of energy fuel; and the carbon footprint associated with each energy fuel option for the country.
The study showed that: 1) there is no single energy fuel which is not associated with GHG emissions
and/or other environmental implications; 2) increase in population and energy consumption
and production yields increase in GHGs and other major pollutants (SOx, NOx, Particulate
Matter); and 3) the choice of fuel mix determines the success of GHG emissions reduction. A future
energy mix dominated by renewable energy technologies; and a balanced view of the actual benefits
of the Namibian energy supply choices was also recommended.

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