Presentation on YouTube.

The escalating climate crisis underscores the global imperative for a sustainable energy transition, demanding a swift and comprehensive shift towards net-zero emissions. This presentation explores the multifaceted pathways required to achieve this monumental transition, focusing on the integration of energy systems and the decarbonization of our energy infrastructure. Central to our research is the role of bioenergy and the application of thermochemical and biochemical transformation pathways within the larger framework of energy system decarbonization. Utilizing a techno-economic framework, we assess the contribution of different forest-based bioenergy pathways to climate change mitigation in the regional context of Quebec, Canada. The presentation also sheds light on the challenges and prospects of various Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR) technologies, such as Bioenergy with Carbon Capture and Storage (BECCS) and Direct Air Capture (DAC), as well as hydrogen as an alternative fuel. These technologies are evaluated for their potential contribution to achieving net-zero emission goals. Employing sophisticated models like the TIMES energy system model, our study provides a comprehensive overview of the current landscape and future prospects of the energy transition. This presentation aims to contribute to the discourse on sustainable energy transitions, offering insights from a multidisciplinary standpoint. The final part of the presentation discusses the current development of the AD-MERGE integrated assessment model, focusing on the role of hydrogen in energy system decarbonization in a global context.

Bio: Hamed Kouchaki-Penchah is a Postdoctoral Fellow at GERAD / HEC Montreal with academic and professional experience in energy system modeling, life cycle assessment, eco-efficiency analysis, and bioresource sustainability. His current research focuses on policy aspects of climate change and energy transition.