Pacific North West Energy Model

Electricity generation is one of the largest sources of carbon dioxide production in Canada. The combustion of fossil fuels (coal and natural gas) release carbon dioxide which contributes to rising global temperatures. Wind energy is considered to be an alternative to the traditional methods of generating electricity, producing electricity when the wind blows strong enough to move the turbines but not so strong that the turbines shut down for safety reasons. Although wind energy can be used to produce energy, its production is both variable and uncertain. The purpose of this study is to determine how effective wind energy is at displacing traditional generation sources. How much wind energy capacity can be added to the existing electricity grid while ensuring system stability? To what extent are carbon dioxide emissions abated with the addition of wind energy to the grid?

Faculty Supervisor:

Dr. G. V. Van Kooten

Student:

Amy Sopinka

Partner:

TransAlta

Discipline:

Economics

Sector:

Alternative energy

University:

University of Victoria