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The deep decarbonization of the power systems is pivotal to the efforts of global energy transition and climate mitigation. The small modular reactor (SMR) is a decarbonized, reliable and secure generating technology that can bring new possibilities for global power-sector transition. However, such a transition involves a variety of complexities even beyond conventional systems. We comprehensively explore the SMR deployment and the decarbonization pathway in a number of diversified power and jurisdictional systems under various complexities associated with multiple variables, objectives, criteria and constraints that have dynamic and interactive relationships. This effort is based on the development of an SMR-embedded multi-region power system management model (SMPM). Using Canada as an example, here we show that SMRs would play different roles in diversified power systems, particularly for fossil-fuel dependent, highly variable renewable energy-penetrated and off-grid. The introduction of SMRs to Canada would result in up to 71% (/48%) emission reduction from 2005 (/2018) level in the country by 2045. Our results would help show the significance of SMRs for supporting the global energy transition. [Display omitted] • An SMPM model is developed to analyze low-carbon power system transition in Canada. • Multiple complexities and uncertainties in power systems are reflected. • SMR development issue is investigated within a power-system optimization framework. • The regional development of Canada is analyzed by a holistic optimization method. • GHG emissions from Canada's power sector would be 48% lower in 2045 than in 2018. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The demand for wood-based energy is foreseen to grow as energy and climate policies around the world promote the use of bioenergy for climate change mitigation. However, the carbon impacts of forest bioenergy range widely in the literature. The value-choices made on the response of forest management to bioenergy demand have a major influence on the results obtained from modeling exercises and may actually change the contribution of forest bioenergy from climate worsening to climate change mitigation. Despite their relevance, there is very little information, or transparency, as to the empirical basis by which these assumptions are chosen and evaluated against. This study aims to fill in this crucial knowledge gap through a mix of critical review, analysis of historical statistical data, and expert judgement. Several prominent studies reporting climate change mitigation from forest bioenergy in three countries are reviewed: Canada, Sweden, and Southeast USA. This analysis shows that the studies rely on assumptions that bioenergy demand will spur supply responses aimed at more efficient forest management and/or relative increases in forest area. Confronting literature assumptions with trends in historical data, we present the most extensive reality-check of bioenergy literature assumptions to date. We find that studies projecting a large role of forest bioenergy in climate change mitigation rely on assumptions that are too optimistic, at times outright unrealistic. We believe scientists could avoid the misinterpretation of their results and improve the policy relevance of their work by more transparent reporting of: i) value-laden assumptions, ii) their influence on the results, iii) the process and rationale behind such assumptions, especially distinguishing between assumptions that reflect incremental changes in management from assumptions requiring transformational change in several industrial sectors. • Accounted carbon benefits of forest bioenergy depend on underlying assumptions. • Forest bioenergy mitigates climate change only when additional biomass is produced. • Forest management responses assumed in the literature are overly optimistic. • Post Normal Science tools can help scientists avoid misinterpretation of results. • Scientists should better convey that model results are contingent on value-choices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon-dioxide (CO 2) is a critical heat trapping greenhouse gas (GHG) that results in global warming. Thus, many countries across the world including Canada have agreed for national level emission reduction targets. A significant fraction of the anthropogenic CO 2 is emitted from fossil fuel-based energy generation. Carbon-dioxide capture, storage, and utilization (CCSU) technologies are currently the sole means of capturing CO 2 emissions generated by such energy systems. However, only a limited amount of research has been done on CCSU integration in community energy systems. This review aims at exploring the prospects of CCSU integration in community energy systems to achieve zero-emission communities. A systematic literature review was conducted to critically analyze the feasibility of community level carbon capturing. A particular focus was given to the techno-economic aspects of carbon capture integration in community energy systems. The drivers and barriers to CCSU implementation in Canadian communities were discussed under techno-economic, socio-political, legal, and environmental themes in the form of a SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats) analysis. Recommendations for overcoming the above barriers were provided from the findings of the review. Finally, a road map aimed towards assessing the suitability of CCSU integration in Canadian communities was defined. The knowledge compiled through this study will aid investors and decision-makers to make informed decisions when planning zero-emission communities. • CCSU is currently the most effective option to capture CO 2 from fossil fuel based combustion systems. • Success of a CCSU project depends on the environmental desirability, technical feasibility, and financial viability. • Carbon capturing has the potential to be implemented in community scale energy systems. • Utilization of captured carbon can provide economic gains better than that from storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]