Glossary
Energy and Climate

Radiative forcing

Radiation flux that disturbs the Earth's radiation balance (due in particular to greenhouse gases).

Greenhouse Gases (GHG); Gaz à effet de serre (GES)

Gases that absorb part of the infrared radiation emitted by the Earth, thereby modifying the radiation balance.

Geoengineering (or climate engineering)

Large-scale techniques for modifying the climate, in particular to counter the effects of global warming.

Pouvoir de réchauffement global (PRG); Global Warming Potential (GWP)

For a greenhouse gas, cumulative radiative forcing over a 100-year period, relative to the cumulative radiative forcing of CO₂.

Smart grids

Electricity grids equipped with digital and electromechanical systems capable of transmitting electricity generated by intermittent sources.