Technology is the key to making significant reductions in GHG emissions. We must develop new, more efficient ways of doing business in the electricity, transportation, industrial, commercial, residential, and agricultural sectors.

According to the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI), the U.S. electricity sector will need all of the following technology advancements to significantly reduce CO₂ emissions over the coming decades:

• Smart grids and communications infrastructures to support customers’ efficiency and demand response programs, distributed generation (on-site, small-scale electricity generation, such as a roof-top solar panel), and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs).

• A grid infrastructure with the capacity and reliability to operate with 20 to 30 percent variable renewable power in specific regions.

• Significant expansion of nuclear energy enabled by continued safe and economic operation of the existing nuclear fleet; and a viable strategy for managing spent fuel.

• New commercial-scale advanced coal-based generation units operating with 90+ percent CO₂ capture and storage in a variety of geologies.

A smart climate policy must harmonize the compliance dates with the availability of these technologies to protect consumers and the economy from huge price spikes.

Funding the research, development, and demonstration of these emerging technologies is a key challenge that must be met. Significant technology investment—by both the government and the private sector—is vital for the long-term success of any climate policy. And, after reaching the commercialization phase, continued investment will be needed to operate and maintain these technologies.

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