Past exam of the short options paper shared by Prelims and Parts A and B of the physics course of the University of Oxford / 2016 / S4 / 3 / b / Solution

Electricity is a strong early decarbonization target because large stationary sources are comparatively accessible and a low-carbon grid enables cleaner vehicles, heat pumps and industry. For example a heat pump with coefficient of performance three divides electricity-related heat emissions by three per unit useful heat. But grid decarbonization does not automatically outrank every efficiency, methane, land-use or industrial intervention. Marginal abatement cost, cumulative emissions, construction time and available technology determine priorities. A very coal-intensive grid makes electrification alone less effective; a clean grid does not remove aviation or process emissions. The statement is a plausible strategic emphasis, not a deduction valid for every country and timescale.