The Relative Aggregate Footprint of Energy Production in the Southeast United States

Abstract:

Relative aggregate footprint (RAF) is a multi-dimensional index used to compare the aggregate footprint of energy technologies with respect to their carbon footprint, water footprint, land footprint and economic cost. In this research, we calculate the RAF of energy sources in the southeast United States by considering the uncertainties involved in data and decision-making processes, and trade-offs in their footprints, as well as the availability of resources in this region. To evaluate the feasibility of adopting different technologies, we extend the analysis by incorporating technical and social factors into RAF calculations through assuming different scenarios. The results suggest geothermal, wind, and solar energies have the lowest RAF in southeast United States which has traditionally relied on natural gas and nuclear energy. The study shows how energy supply mixes can be developed for various regions with respect to the natural and socio-economic characteristics of the region.