Bar Plot from Scientific Research

Final-stage EROI equivalent calculated for 2020 (that is, the value above which renewable energy systems would deliver more net useful energy than fossil fuels) at the global level alongside the literature-sourced EROIs (from ref. 31 ) for solar photovoltaics (PV) and wind power, adjusted for the effects of intermittency according to different low-carbon energy transition scenarios. Dark shades correspond to the EROI equivalent when indirect energy requirements are included in fossil fuels EROI calculations. Light shades correspond to the EROI equivalent when indirect energy requirements are excluded. Calculations consist of a weighted average of fossil fuels used as fuels, electricity and heat.

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