Browsing by Author "Carlson, Maria"

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    Exploring Microgrids: Powering Resilience in Eastern North Carolina
    (2024-04-26) Ayyagari, Meera; Carlson, Maria; McKain, Kristy; Urbina, Alexandria
    The Upper Coastal Plain (UCP) region of North Carolina faces frequent extreme weather events which cause failures in the electrical grid system and threaten the delivery of critical emergency services when they are needed most. The council of governments for the region (UCPCOG) aims to enhance the resiliency of critical infrastructure by offering resources and recommendations for microgrid development to its member bodies. This project presents a three-tiered analysis designed to inform UCPCOG’s recommendations. First, we evaluate microgrids as a tool for improving resilience through a literature review consisting of technology descriptions, environmental justice considerations, case studies, and development trends. Second, we examine potential site locations using a spatial multi-criteria decision analysis which prioritizes community input. Finally, we offer an economic analysis resulting in optimal configurations for select sites based on economic, technology, and carbon emissions constraints.
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    Strengthening Supply Chains for US Decarbonization
    (2023-08-28) Ewing, John; Earnhardt, Rachel; Carlson, Maria; Reeves, Joy
    The 2022 Inflation Reduction Act provides new sources of capital and incentives for accelerating net-zero efforts. The law concurrently seeks to shift supply chains vital for US decarbonization to domestic sources and, more selectively, to links with free-trade partners. However, challenges abound. This policy paper responds by exploring opportunities inherent to rapidly creat­ing just, low-carbon, and sustainable supply chains for key sectors of the US economy. These recommendations center upon the following key efforts: * Expediting permitting for critical decarbonization materials * Applying exceptions and special waivers on domestic content * Incentivizing recycling and materials innovation * Applying domestic content guidance progressively * Developing human capital * Developing decarbonization clusters * Expanding domestic exploration incentives * Prioritizing friendshoring, risk reduction, and low-carbon trade in foreign policy This report is part of Keys to the US Energy Transition: An Energy Pathways USA Series.