The Role of Electricity Generation in Global Greenhouse Gas

Emissions

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A Research Proposal Presented to

Bachelor of Technical-Vocational Teacher Education

Major in Garments, Fashion and Design

Batangas State University

Lemery Campus

________________________________________________

By:

Medina, Mariah Camille C.

Reyes, Queen Joyce T.

Rodriguez, Maricon A.
 INTRODUCTION

Background of the Study

Electricity generation is recognized as one of the largest contributors to global greenhouse

gas (GHG) emissions, with fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas being the primary

sources of energy used to generate power worldwide. The combustion of these fuels releases

large quantities of carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and other greenhouse gases, which

accumulate in the Earth’s atmosphere. These emissions significantly contribute to the

acceleration of climate change, leading to global warming, rising sea levels, the melting of polar

ice caps, and the intensification of extreme weather patterns such as storms, droughts, and

heatwaves.

In recent years, there has been growing interest in transitioning to renewable energy

sources—such as solar, wind, and hydropower—as cleaner and more sustainable alternatives to

fossil fuels. These sources produce little to no greenhouse gases during operation, offering the

potential to significantly reduce the environmental impact of electricity generation. However, the

widespread adoption of renewable energy is not without its challenges. Issues such as the high

initial investment costs, the need for significant infrastructure development, and concerns about

energy storage and reliability continue to hinder the scalability and full integration of these

renewable sources into the global energy grid.

This study aims to delve deeper into the complex relationship between electricity

generation and GHG emissions, exploring how traditional energy production methods contribute

to climate change. Furthermore, the study will investigate strategies, policies, and technological

innovations that can help mitigate the environmental impacts of electricity generation, providing

solutions that support a more sustainable and environmentally friendly energy future.

Statement of the Problem

Despite global efforts to reduce emissions, electricity generation remains a significant

challenge.

Key problems include:

1. The heavy reliance on fossil fuels in electricity production.

3. Limited understanding of region-specific emission trends and mitigation strategies.

Hypothesis

Transitioning from fossil fuel-based electricity generation to renewable energy sources will

significantly reduce global greenhouse gas emissions, positively impacting climate change

mitigation efforts.

Objectives of the Study

1. To evaluate the role of electricity generation in global greenhouse gas emissions

and propose solutions for sustainable energy production.

2. To identify the primary contributors to GHG emissions in electricity generation.

3. To compare emission levels between fossil fuel-based and renewable energy

sources.

4. To assess the feasibility of transitioning to low-carbon electricity generation

technologies.

5. To provide actionable recommendations for policymakers and industry

stakeholders.

Scope and Limitations

This study focuses on the global electricity generation sector, emphasizing its contribution

to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and the role of renewable energy sources in mitigating these

emissions. It aims to analyze emission trends from fossil fuel-based energy production and assess

the potential of renewable energy technologies, such as solar, wind, and hydropower, to reduce

environmental impacts. Additionally, the study seeks to evaluate existing policy frameworks and

technological innovations that promote sustainable energy practices. A comparative analysis of

electricity generation practices in developed and developing countries will also be conducted to

highlight regional variations and challenges in transitioning to low-carbon energy systems. The

research aims to provide actionable recommendations for stakeholders, including policymakers,

energy producers, and researchers, to support global climate goals.

However, the study has certain limitations. It primarily relies on secondary data from

reputable sources such as the International Energy Agency (IEA) and the Intergovernmental
Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), as real-time data collection is beyond its scope due to time and

resource constraints. The diversity in regional electricity generation practices, influenced by

energy policies, economic conditions, and resource availability, may limit the generalizability of

findings. Additionally, the study may not fully capture emerging technologies or rapidly evolving

policy environments, particularly in regions undergoing significant energy transitions. Lastly, the

focus on existing data and trends may not reflect future advancements or unexpected

developments in the energy sector, such as breakthroughs in renewable energy technologies or

shifts in global energy demand. Despite these limitations, the study endeavors to balance depth

and breadth, ensuring that its findings remain valuable and relevant while recognizing areas that

may require further exploration.

Significance of the Study

This study holds significant value in addressing one of the most pressing global

challenges: the environmental impact of electricity generation. By examining the role of

electricity production in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, the research aims to contribute to the

broader goal of mitigating climate change and promoting sustainable development. The findings

of this study are expected to benefit various sectors and stakeholders in the following ways:

Policymakers. The study will provide data-driven insights and evidence-based analyses to help

policymakers design and implement effective energy policies. It will highlight the critical areas

where intervention is needed, such as transitioning to renewable energy sources, improving

energy efficiency, and setting realistic yet impactful emission reduction targets. Policymakers

can utilize the findings to align national energy strategies with global climate goals, such as those

outlined in the Paris Agreement.

Industries. For industries, particularly those in the energy sector, this study will identify cost-

effective and sustainable methods of electricity generation. By evaluating the economic and

technical feasibility of low-carbon technologies, the research will offer practical solutions for

reducing operational emissions while maintaining energy reliability. It will also highlight

opportunities for innovation and investment in renewable energy infrastructure, providing a

roadmap for industries to balance profitability with environmental responsibility.

Academic Researchers. The study will fill gaps in existing literature by providing a

comprehensive analysis of the relationship between electricity generation and GHG emissions. It
will serve as a valuable resource for researchers seeking to build upon its findings, whether

through advanced modeling, regional

case studies, or technological innovation. By contributing to the academic discourse, the research

can inspire further studies that deepen our understanding of sustainable energy systems.

Society. The ultimate beneficiaries of this research are the members of society. By advocating for

cleaner and more sustainable energy production, the study supports efforts to mitigate climate

change, reduce air pollution, and enhance public health. Cleaner energy systems can lead to

improved environmental conditions, lower healthcare costs, and a more resilient economy.

Additionally, the research underscores the importance of individual and collective action in

supporting energy transitions, fostering awareness, and encouraging sustainable practices among

communities.

Definition of Key Terms

Greenhouse Gas Emissions (GHG): Gases like carbon dioxide (CO₂), methane (CH₄), and

nitrous oxide (N₂O) that trap heat in the atmosphere, contributing to global warming.

Fossil Fuels: Natural fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas formed from the remains of living

organisms.

Renewable Energy: Energy generated from natural resources like sunlight, wind, and water that

are replenished over time.

Decarbonization: The process of reducing carbon dioxide emissions.

The relationship between electricity generation and global greenhouse gas (GHG)

emissions has been extensively studied, with fossil fuel-based electricity generation identified as

a major contributor. It is widely reported that coal, natural gas, and oil power plants account for

over 70% of global GHG emissions, which significantly exacerbate climate change and

contribute to environmental degradation and public health issues such as air pollution and

respiratory diseases (International Energy Agency, 2023). In response to this issue, renewable

energy sources such as solar, wind, hydroelectric, and geothermal energy have been recognized

for their potential to mitigate emissions. Studies show that a transition to renewables could

reduce carbon emissions by up to 80% in the electricity sector by 2050 (REN21, 2023).

However, the widespread adoption of these technologies faces several barriers, including high

initial costs, technological limitations, and the intermittency of certain renewable resources, such

as wind and solar power. Overcoming these barriers requires substantial investments in energy

storage technologies and grid modernization to ensure a stable and reliable energy supply

(IRENA, 2023).

Policy frameworks play a crucial role in facilitating this transition, with tools such as feed-

in tariffs, subsidies, and carbon pricing being implemented in various countries to incentivize

renewable energy adoption. However, the effectiveness of these policies varies due to differences

in economic conditions, political will, and infrastructure capabilities (World Energy Council,

2023). Furthermore, technological advancements such as carbon capture and storage (CCS) and

next-generation nuclear power are seen as potential solutions to reduce emissions from

traditional power plants, though these technologies still require significant research and

development to ensure their safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.

A notable gap in the existing literature is the lack of a detailed comparison of electricity

generation practices and emission levels across regions. Developed countries, particularly those

in the European Union, have made substantial progress in renewable energy adoption, driven by

strong policies and technological innovation. In contrast, developing nations continue to rely

heavily on fossil fuels due to financial constraints and limited access to clean energy

technologies (Global. Energy Monitor, 2022). Understanding these regional differences is crucial
for identifying best practices and crafting strategies that cater to the specific needs of each

region.

While significant research has been conducted on the impact of electricity generation on

GHG emissions and the potential of renewable energy, there are still gaps that need addressing.

These include the need for more detailed regional comparisons, evaluations of the long-term

effectiveness of current policies, and assessments of emerging technologies in the context of

global energy transitions. This study aims to contribute to the existing body of knowledge by

addressing these gaps and providing actionable insights that can help reduce global emissions

and promote sustainable energy practices.

Research Design

This study will adopt a mixed-methods research design, integrating both quantitative data

analysis and qualitative insights. The combination of these two approaches allows for a

comprehensive understanding of the role of electricity generation in global greenhouse gas

(GHG) emissions. The quantitative aspect will focus on analyzing historical emission data to

identify trends and patterns in the electricity generation sector, particularly from fossil fuels and

renewable sources. Meanwhile, the qualitative component will involve gathering expert opinions

through interviews to capture nuanced perspectives on the effectiveness of current policies,

technologies, and the challenges of transitioning to low-carbon energy systems. This mixed-

methods approach will enable a deeper exploration of the issue, providing a well-rounded

perspective on both statistical trends and expert opinions.

Data Collection

The data for this study will be primarily sourced from secondary data, drawn from

reputable international organizations such as the International Energy Agency (IEA), the

Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), and the World Energy Council (WEC).

These organizations provide comprehensive, reliable, and up-to-date reports on global energy

use, emission levels, and the adoption of renewable energy technologies. The quantitative data

will include information on global GHG emissions from electricity generation, renewable energy

adoption rates, and emission reductions associated with various energy production methods.

In addition to secondary data, qualitative data will be gathered through semi-structured

interviews with experts in the fields of energy policy, environmental science, and renewable

energy technology. The experts will be selected based on their experience and expertise in global

energy systems, with a focus on those who have worked in or studied the transition to sustainable

energy practices. These interviews will provide valuable insights into the real-world implications

of energy policies, the challenges faced by countries in adopting renewable energy, and the

potential technological innovations that could drive emission reductions.

The quantitative data will be analyzed using statistical software such as SPSS or R.

Statistical techniques such as regression analysis and trend analysis will be employed to evaluate

historical emission trends in the electricity generation sector, particularly focusing on the

differences between fossil fuel-based and renewable energy sources. The goal of this analysis is

to quantify the impact of various energy production methods on global GHG emissions and

identify any significant patterns in emission reductions over time.

For the qualitative data, content analysis will be used to examine the responses from expert

interviews. This will involve coding the interview transcripts to identify recurring themes,

patterns, and perspectives regarding the effectiveness of current energy policies, the feasibility of

transitioning to renewable energy, and the role of technological innovations in reducing

emissions. The qualitative analysis will help contextualize the statistical findings, offering a

deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the global energy sector. The

combination of both quantitative and qualitative methods will provide a robust and nuanced

analysis of the research topic.

Through this methodology, the study aims to produce reliable, data-driven insights while

also incorporating expert knowledge to address the complexities of global energy transitions and

the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.

Activity Duration Details

Literature Review 3 weeks Review related studies and

reports.

Data Collection 4 weeks Gather secondary data and

conduct interviews.

Data Analysis 4 weeks Perform quantitative and

qualitative analyses

Report Writing 3 weeks Draft, revise, and finalize the

research paper

Significance of the Research

This research is significant in addressing the environmental impacts of electricity

generation, a major contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions. By evaluating both fossil

fuel-based and renewable energy sources, the study will identify key strategies to reduce

emissions and support global climate goals, such as those outlined in the Paris Agreement. It will

provide evidence-based recommendations for policymakers, helping them design more effective

energy strategies aligned with sustainability objectives.

The research will also Inform efforts to accelerate the transition to low-carbon energy

systems, offering insights on overcoming barriers to renewable energy adoption, technological

innovations, and policy interventions. For industry stakeholders and governments, these findings

will provide actionable guidance on promoting cleaner, more efficient energy practices.

Moreover, the study will contribute to the academic discourse by filling gaps in the

literature on electricity generation’s environmental impact, offering a foundation for future

research on energy transitions. Ultimately, the research will have practical implications for

society by promoting cleaner energy, reducing environmental and health risks, and fostering

public awareness and action toward a sustainable energy future.

Item Cost (PHP) Details

Statistical Software ₱200 For analyzing quantitative

data.

Survey Tools ₱150 Online platforms for

collecting survey data.

Travel for Interviews ₱300 Face-to-face interviews with

stakeholders

Miscellaneous Expenses ₱150 Printing, materials, and other

costs.

Total ₱800

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

The results will include:

An overview of global GHG emission trends in electricity generation.

A comparative analysis of emissions from fossil fuels and renewable sources.

Recommendations for adopting low-carbon energy technologies.

Discussion will focus on implications for policy, technology, and future research directions.
 ABSTRACT

Electricity generation is one of the largest contributors to global greenhouse gas (GHG)

emissions, primarily due to the extensive use of fossil fuels such as coal, natural gas, and oil. As

the world faces the urgent need to mitigate climate change, understanding the environmental

impact of electricity production is crucial. This research aims to examine emission trends within

the electricity generation sector, with a particular focus on the role of renewable energy sources

in reducing emissions and promoting sustainable energy practices.

Using a mixed-methods approach, the study combines quantitative data analysis of global

emission trends with qualitative insights derived from expert interviews in the fields of energy

policy, environmental science, and renewable energy technology. The research will assess the

effectiveness of current energy policies, explore regional variations in energy generation

practices, and evaluate the potential of emerging technologies to reduce the carbon footprint of

electricity production.

By identifying key factors contributing to high emissions and exploring strategies to

accelerate the transition to low-carbon energy systems, this study aims to provide actionable

recommendations for policymakers, industries, and researchers. The findings will contribute to

global climate mitigation efforts, offering a deeper understanding of the challenges and

opportunities in achieving a sustainable and low-carbon energy future. Ultimately, this research

will support the transition to cleaner energy systems, fostering a more sustainable, resilient, and

environmentally responsible global energy landscape.

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Retrieved from IEA.org

IPCC. (2021). Renewable Energy and Climate Change: Implications for Policy and Practice.

Retrieved from IPCC.ch

Smith, J. (2020). Transitioning to Sustainable Energy Systems: A Policy Perspective. Cambridge

University Press.

World Energy Council. (2023). World Energy Trilemma Index 2023: Balancing Energy Security,

Equity, and Sustainability. Retrieved from worldenergy.org

Global Energy Monitor. (2022). Coal Power Generation and its Impact on the Environment.

Retrieved from globalenergymonitor.org

REN21. (2023). Renewables 2023 Global Status Report. Retrieved from ren21.net

Kumar, P., & Singh, R. (2019). Carbon Emissions from Power Plants: Trends and Strategies.

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