Perspective on the human dimension in energy modelling: Structural analysis

Abstract

The complex and diffuse nature of the human dimension makes it difficult to identify and integrate into energy modelling. The human dimension concept in energy modelling has resulted in a broad spectrum with different nuances and meanings that have been used interchangeably, which could lead to misperceptions and misunderstandings. This study combines a set of methodologies to reflect aspects of the human dimension in energy modelling systematically. The selected methods include structural analysis, word clouds and co-occurrence networks based on bibliometric information. Recent research efforts have centred on identifying and characterising the factors of the human dimension. As a result, the human dimension in energy modelling is conceptualised by variables that encompass instead of having a comprehensive framework. The more closed concept to the human dimension in energy modelling is development; together with the current state around demand, they can serve as a reference framework or a bridge to integrating variables of the human dimension with the technical and financial aspects of recent energy models.