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Low-Carbon Transition for the Southeast United States

By SDSN USA

This report, Low-Carbon Transition Strategies for the Southeast is the latest publication of the US Deep Decarbonization Pathways Project, led by Evolved Energy Research and US DDPP Director Jim Williams.

This study explores unique opportunities and challenges for the United States Southeast region including (Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee) in the broader context of the transformative changes to the U.S. energy system that are required to reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions to net-zero emissions in 2050. The scale and rate of physical changes to the U.S. energy system will be significant, and the Southeast will play a critical role in enabling a national transition. The implications of these changes for the region will be far-reaching, offering opportunities to grow new industries and jobs, as well as the chance to deploy climate mitigation and adaption policies that help to ensure an equitable energy transition.

Some of the key findings covered in the report include:

  • The Southeast can reimagine energy efficiency policy and become a national leader in enabling large-scale building electrification and significant energy savings.
  • With a bountiful solar resource, the region is poised to supply almost 50% of all electricity from solar, complemented by wind imports and other zero-carbon generation.
  • Significant growth in Southeastern biomass production for advanced biofuels can supply one-fifth of the U.S total and create opportunities for economic growth.

    For more information on the US DDPP please click here. If you wish to get involved or receive more information, please email usa@unsdsn.org.

About SDSN USA

The SDSN USA network brings together researchers, knowledge creators, and thought leaders to mobilize expertise on the advancement of the Sustainable Development Goals in the United States. The network is co-hosted by Columbia University, Yale University, and the University of California, San Diego. The network was launched in December 2018 and has quickly grown to become the largest network within SDSN. For more information, please visit www.sdsnusa.org or email them at usa@unsdsn.org.