Energy Systems

Abstract

Almost entirely dependent on energy imports from outside, cities are the key driving force behind the demand for energy, which is an essential resource for industries, households and services. Up to now, the Chilean energy system has met Santiago’s needs satisfactorily. However, development trends in the current energy system pose significant risks to its future. Using selected energy indicators and a distance-to-target approach, a detailed sustainability analysis of the energy sector in the Metropolitan Region of Santiago and of Chile as a whole was conducted. Risks to the sustainable development of the energy sector were detected, such as increasing concentration in the energy sector, import dependency on fossil fuels and rising CO2 emissions due to energy consumption. Alternative options were assessed for a more sustainable development of the megacity Santiago within the frame of the national Chilean energy system, such as enhancement of energy efficiency and greater use of renewable energies.