# Methodology

GridCO2 builds a detailed model of the electricity grid, runs a power-flow
simulation, and applies emission factors to the generation mix to calculate
carbon intensity in grams of CO2 per kilowatt-hour (gCO2/kWh).

## How it works

1. **Grid**

   We map the physical electricity infrastructure into a graph of nodes and
   edges.
2. **Demand & Supply**

   We connect demand and generation data to the graph to track where energy is
   produced and consumed.
3. **Weather**

   Atmospheric forecasts drive our models that predict energy demand and the
   output of renewable power plants.
4. **Power Flow**

   A power-flow model determines how electricity moves through the grid from
   generators to consumers.
5. **Carbon Intensity**

   We apply emission factors to the resulting generation mix to calculate the
   carbon intensity in grams of CO2 per kilowatt-hour.

## Carbon intensity

Grams of CO2 per kilowatt-hour (gCO2/kWh) measures the carbon emitted for each
unit of electricity consumed. This value is derived from direct operational
factors that account for fuel combustion and excludes lifecycle emissions.

## Resources

Each resource represents a generation technology. The following are currently
included:

- Bioenergy
- Coal
- Gas
- Geothermal
- Hydropower
- Nuclear
- Oil
- Solar
- Wind