Lights and shadows of the environmental impacts of fossil-based electricity generation technologies: A contribution based on the Ecuadorian experience

摘要: Abstract Non-renewable technologies still play a significant role in the electricity generation mix of most countries. Thus, relevant up-to-date environmental data are needed to provide good understanding consequences fossil fuel technologies. The focus this work is examine fossil-based used Ecuador, providing compelling insight into revision existent international databases. main combinations and thermal have been studied: oil steam power plants (FO-SP), internal combustion engine (FO-ICE), natural gas turbine (NG-GT), diesel (D-GT). ISO standards CML 2000 methodology were further considered quantify potential impact associated with systems. Results show that NG-GT has lowest burdens, while FO-SP represents highest impacts 5 6 studied categories. It remarkable for same type (fuel oil), ICE lower than plants. Finally, lights shadows discussed general picture current debate concerning transition pathways.