This dataset is for an analysis that used the MARKAL linear optimization model to compare the carbon emissions profiles and system-wide global warming potential of the U.S. energy system over a series of model runs in which the power sector is required to meet a specific carbon dioxide reduction target across a number of scenarios in which the availability of natural gas changes. Scenarios are run with carbon dioxide emissions and a range of upstream methane emission leakage rates from natural gas production along with upstream methane and carbon dioxide emissions associated with production of coal and oil.

This dataset is associated with the following publication: Lenox , C., and O. Kaplan. Role of natural gas in meeting an electric sector emissions reduction strategy and effects on greenhouse gas emissions. Energy Economics. Elsevier B.V., Amsterdam, NETHERLANDS, 60: 460-468, (2016).