Effects of Atmospheric Carbon Dioxide on U.S. Peak Electrical Generating Capacity

Concentrations of atmospheric carbon dioxide and of other greenhouse gases are steadily increasing and may raise global average surface temperatures at least 3.6° F (2°C) by 2050. This temperature increase may result in the need for additional peak electrical generating capacity for many electrical utilities in the United States, due primarily to increased demand for summer cooling. Calculations for the state of Minnesota suggest about an 11 percent increase in required peak generating capacity may be needed as a result of regional temperature changes that might occur within 25 to 65 years. Improving the efficiency of the national air-conditioning stock could substantially mitigate the impact of higher ambient temperature on peak demand.