Novel classification of energy sources, with implications for carbon emissions

• Published in: Energy strategy reviews 2023-09, Vol.49, p.101146, Article 101146
• Main Authors: Alajingi, Ramkumar, R, Marimuthu
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Capture energy; Carbon emissions; Energy sources classification; Renewable energy; Replenish energy; Reserved energy
• ISSN: 2211-467X; 2211-467X
• DOI: 10.1016/j.esr.2023.101146

The transition of the energy sector from using conventional sources to sustainable sources paves the way for the exploration of various new energy sources. Since the past classifications are often based on subjective criteria such as whether an energy source is either renewable or fossil fuel. This causes to lack of representation of emerging energy sources such as vibration, acoustic and human heat, etc. Also, the by-products of energy systems after useful conversion such as discharged heat from turbine and exhaust flue gases are never considered as a source but rather called energy efficiencies feature of the system. The current classification uses facts-based objective criteria to classify the energy sources as renewable, reserve, and capture energy sources. The terms and definitions to annex energy sources under a particular category are theoretically justified. Another important aspect that is, to meet sustainable development goals the need to choose low carbon emissions as the primary criteria for promoting energy source utilization and economic policymaking is insisted. •New classifications for energy sources with definitions of each source based on objective criteria are proposed as replenished (renewable) energy, reserved (depleting) energy, and capture energy sources.•The term capture energy is newly coined and subdivided into discharged energy and evolved energy.•The choice of carbon emissions as the main criterion for the promotion of energy sources utilization is insisted.