IESopt

Energy system analysis requires modelling tools that allow for in-depth analyses of the energy system and the corresponding infrastructure, following an integrated and holistic approach that reflects the growing complexity in energy supply, demand, and storage. During past years AIT has successfully launched the development of such a modelling framework: IESopt (Integrated Energy System Optimisation). In this context, the figure below provides an overview on that modelling framework, indicating its flexible character to adequately reflect underlying research needs. Originally planned as energy system model in combination with an electricity network model that allows for assessing newly established grid operation practices, it has been validated by the transmission system operator APG and is currently applied in selected research and business activities. The scope of the model and its optimisation framework is however broader than originally intended, and continuous advancements to incorporate new features reflect regular business. To facilitate the widespread use of this tool, it is anchored in AIT's new strategy vision to open source the model's code and to transparently provide the corresponding database for further use within the scientific and stakeholder community.

Within this project it is planned to make use of the European energy system model IESopt-Europe, the geographically most advanced tool within the IESopt family. Geographically this model covers the whole European Union and selected neighbouring countries like Switzerland, Norway, and the UK. Despite having the analytical focus on Austria, it appears of relevance for a sound power system analysis to represent the interconnected character of Europe's electricity system, where cross-border electricity exchange is a common fact today and in the future. Sector-wise the model includes the electricity sector and the sector of grid-connected heating and cooling supply. Timewise we plan to model selected focal years in the short- (2030) to mid-future (2050). In terms of data, IESopt-Europe builds on the Balmorel model as successfully applied in the recently completed ACRP study SECURES.