Lecture 5c - Energy system and modelling basics Flashcards
1
Q
What is an energy model?
A
- Abstract representation of an energy system
- Mathematical formulation that integrates information about energy systems of interest and mimics its behaviour
- Could be a simple diagram, table, set of equations or lines of code.
2
Q
How do models help?
A
- Organise information
- Handle and represent a complex system
- Understand the system
- Evaluate how different courses of action impact the system and its objectives
- How to control the system to achieve objectives
- How the system response to different uncontrollable situations
3
Q
What are the four main types of energy system models and what are their key features? Give an example of each.
A
- Technology rich, least cost models, e.g. TIMES - focus on optimisation and energy system
- CGE models, e.g. GTAP - focus on optimisation and economy
- Economic models, e.g. POLES - focus on economy and simulation
- Technology rich simulation models, e.g. LEAP - focus on energy systems and simulation
4
Q
What is the Global Calculator?
A
- Puts you in charge of the world’s energy, land and food systems to 2015.
- Includes a full range of possible scenarios for the future, determined by experts
- Instantly works out implications of choices.
5
Q
What are the key principles behind the Global Calculator?
A
- Openness - excel based, fully published, available for free online
- Collaboration - global team with input from 100s experts
- Simplicity - models world as simply as possible
6
Q
Who uses the Global Calculator?
A
- NGOs
- Businesses
- Governments
- Universities/schools
7
Q
What sectors are included in the Global Calculator?
A
- Transport
- Buildings
- Manufacturing
- Electricity
- Fossil fuels
- Land, bioenergy and food
