A review of carbon emissions accounting and prediction on the power grid

Owing to the rapid development of ultrahigh voltage and extra-high voltage power grids in China, a substantial impact can be observed on energy usage and carbon emissions across different regions through interprovincial and interregional power transmission. This study presents a comprehensive examination of the life cycle carbon emissions of power grids. It begins with a detailed overview of carbon emission accounting methods on the power grid-side, encompassing the emission factor method, carbon emission flow tracking method, and input–output method. Among these, the emission factor method is unique for its broad applicability, enabling the comprehensive calculation of the life cycle carbon emissions of power grids. By contrast, the carbon emission flow tracking method specifically accounts for carbon emissions from energy losses during the operational phase, and the input–output method is primarily applicable for accounting for carbon emissions during the construction phase of the power grid. Additionally, to facilitate future carbon emission prediction on the power grid-side, we discuss the fundamental principles and applications of carbon emission influencing factor analysis and prediction models. Finally, we outline prospective research directions for carbon emission accounting on the power grid-side to provide valuable insights for ongoing accounting efforts within the power grid sector.