Models Within Models – Agent-Based Modelling and Simulation in Energy Systems Analysis

Martin Klein,Ulrich J Frey,Matthias Reeg

doi:10.18564/jasss.4129

Abstract

This paper tries to show the various roles agent-based modeling and simulation (ABMS) can play in technology and policy assessment of energy systems. We examine the advantages of ABMS methods using three case studies of electricity market models as example (AMIRIS, EMLab-Generation and PowerACE). In particular, we argue why ABMS might serve as framework for many future energy system models that integrate many different algorithms. We then discuss practical and theoretical problems in the development, validation and assessment of energy-system-analytical ABMS and conclude with an outlook and recommendations for energy system modellers who consider incorporating ABMS into their modelling toolbox.

Highlights

We present the main disadvantages of status-quo modelling approaches and how these can be addressed by ABMS
In Table we show as a summary which of the explicit advantages of ABMS are being covered by the three ABMS case studies compared to a classical optimisation approach
The purpose of this paper was to give an overview on how the particular advantages of agent-based modelling can be used in the research field of energy systems analysis and in energy scenario studies

Summary

Introduction

. The climate impact of fossil fuels emissions makes it necessary to decarbonise the energy system. Energy systems analysis deals with the investigation of the structural elements of the energy system (Möst & Fichter ). One major topic is how to shi energy production towards a sustainable energy supply, which in turn is crucial for reducing carbon emissions. The electricity sector can be made technically largely climate-neutral (see, for example, Scholz and Williams et al ). . The transformation of the energy system requires complex, multi-criterial assessments, taking into account environmental concerns while moving towards global sustainability (Pfenninger et al ). At the core of energy systems analysis are various energy models that analyse how to reduce emissions, to secure energy supply and to minimize costs

Objectives

Methods

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Discussion

Conclusion