3% of global electricity is generated from Unspecified Fossil Fuels

Unspecified fossil fuels refer to the collective use of fossil-based energy sources such as coal, oil, and natural gas in generating electricity, without specifying the particular source. These fuels are derived from natural geological processes that form over millions of years, resulting in energy-dense materials that, when burned, release large amounts of energy. Fossil fuel-based electricity generation has been a staple in industrial energy supply due to its ability to provide reliable, on-demand power. This energy source has traditionally met the power needs of rapidly developing economies, supporting industrial activities and urbanization.

The generation of electricity using unspecified fossil fuels typically involves burning these fuels in thermal power plants. The combustion process generates heat, which is then used to convert water into steam. This steam drives turbines connected to electricity generators, producing electric power. The type of fossil fuel and the specific technology within power plants can affect the efficiency of the process and consequently, the carbon emissions. For instance, coal-fired power plants tend to have higher emissions compared to natural gas plants due to the higher carbon content in coal.

However, one of the critical downsides of using unspecified fossil fuels is their high carbon intensity. The carbon emissions can range from 490 gCO2eq/kWh for natural gas to 820 gCO2eq/kWh for coal, contributing significantly to global greenhouse gas emissions. This is substantially higher than low-carbon energy sources, such as wind (11 gCO2eq/kWh), nuclear (12 gCO2eq/kWh), and solar (45 gCO2eq/kWh), which underscores the importance of transitioning to these clean energy alternatives to combat climate change and reduce the carbon footprint of electricity generation.

Another major disadvantage of using fossil fuels is air pollution. Burning fossil fuels releases not only carbon dioxide but also a slew of other pollutants, including sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter. These pollutants are major contributors to air quality degradation and pose severe health risks, aggravating respiratory conditions and increasing mortality rates in affected populations. This makes shifting towards clean energy technologies, such as solar and nuclear, even more pressing to safeguard public health and enhance air quality.

In light of these drawbacks, the need to expand clean electricity sources like nuclear and solar is both urgent and essential. Emphasizing these clean technologies will not only help to meet the increasing global electricity demand driven by electrification and the rise of AI but will also create a sustainable energy future. By prioritizing and investing in low-carbon energy sources, we can mitigate the adverse impacts of fossil fuels on our planet's climate and public health, paving the way for a cleaner, more sustainable world.