Q4 — Assess the role of low-carbon technology in meeting future global energy demand

Assess the role of low-carbon technologies in meeting future global energy demand sustainably. (6 marks)

Mark scheme (6 marks, AO2 + AO3, levelled):

• Level 3 (5–6): Detailed assessment using named technologies + data; weighs strengths and limitations; reaches a substantiated judgement.
• Level 2 (3–4): Some assessment with examples; partial weighing of strengths/weaknesses.
• Level 1 (1–2): Basic description of low-carbon technologies with limited assessment.

Indicative content:

• Strengths: Solar PV LCOE fell 89% (2010–23, IRENA); offshore wind UK 14 GW capacity targeting 50 GW by 2030. Nuclear (Hinkley Point C, 3.2 GW) provides firm low-carbon baseload. CCUS (East Coast Cluster, 20–30 Mt CO₂/yr) decarbonises hard-to-abate industry.
• Limitations: Intermittency requires storage (lithium-ion, green H₂); resource constraints (cobalt DRC, lithium Chile); high capital costs; nuclear waste/public acceptance; CCUS unproven at scale.
• Judgement: Low-carbon tech is necessary but not sufficient — must combine with efficiency, demand reduction and grid flexibility (IEA Net Zero 2050 roadmap).