Regional energy scenarios

Sergey Paltsev will explore the future of energy in a “power-hungry” world, focusing on the interplay between global energy systems, economic forces, and climate policy. Drawing on integrated global economic modeling, his talk will examine pathways for decarbonization, technology deployment, and policy interventions that can balance energy demand, environmental constraints, and economic growth. Recent advances in electrification of energy and decarbonizing electricity are promising, but they confirm that the pathway to deep decarbonization requires choices in addition to provision of renewable electricity. Dr. Paltsev is the lead author of the MIT Global Change Outlook, which projects a sizeable need for hydrocarbons in the form of liquid and gaseous fuels for sectors such as heavy- duty long-distance transport, high-temperature industrial heat, agriculture, and chemical production. Attendees will gain insights into how strategic decisions at the intersection of technology, policy, and economics can shape a sustainable energy future.