Emissions reduction could be tougher than some have forecast.

A new study by the electric power industry is predicting lower likely emissions savings from new technology than climate change experts say is required to put a dent in global warming. However, the report says the US government's more modest projections can be attained and even improved upon. But substantial emissions reductions would take decades of investments and innovation.

It would take electric power companies about 20 years to get their emissions to below the levels of 1990, the report says. (click on graphic to enlarge) To put that in context, the Kyoto Protocol calls for emissions to be below 1990 levels by about 2010.

Click here for a report in the New York Times.

- David Adams