Other Research Information
Inventory Methods
GHG emissions inventory methods have improved significantly over the past few decades, but major sources of uncertainty remain. While CO2 emissions from fossil fuel combustion in California can be accurately estimated if the energy flows for the state are known, better data is required, particularly regarding interstate electricity transfers and minor fuels. Meanwhile, non-CO2 emissions are influenced by complex factors that are not taken into account by relatively simple national and international inventory methods.
Improving GHG inventory methods and resolving existing uncertainties will enable California to more accurately track GHG emissions trends. In turn, efforts to reduce emissions and monitor progress will be better informed by these improved inventory methods. Other PIER-EA research, such as the development of GHG reduction curves to help maximize the cost-effectiveness of reduction efforts, requires accurate measurements of baseline emissions and anticipated reductions.
To guide research efforts regarding inventory methods, PIER-funded activities have sought to address the following question: what emission estimation methods should be improved to better characterize GHG emissions and GHG emission reduction opportunities? In general, this question has led to two primary short-term research projects: compiling energy balances for California and developing new, improved methods to estimate non-CO2 emissions. Work in this area benefits the PIER-EA program by providing improved and standardized California-specific data and methodologies.