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Understanding the Current Energy Paradigm and Energy System Models for More Sustainable Energy System Development

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  • Nathalie Spittler

    (Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Iceland, Reykjavik 101, Iceland, Sæmundargata 2, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
    Department of Economics, University of Clermont Auvergne, 63000 Clermont Ferrand, France)

  • Ganna Gladkykh

    (Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Iceland, Reykjavik 101, Iceland, Sæmundargata 2, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
    Department of Economics, University of Clermont Auvergne, 63000 Clermont Ferrand, France)

  • Arnaud Diemer

    (Department of Economics, University of Clermont Auvergne, 63000 Clermont Ferrand, France)

  • Brynhildur Davidsdottir

    (Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Iceland, Reykjavik 101, Iceland, Sæmundargata 2, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland)

Abstract

This study contributes to a better understanding of where to place different energy modelling tools and support better decision-making related to the sustainable development of energy systems. It is argued that through the connection of the energy field and the field of sustainable development, the current energy paradigm—encompassing economic, environmental and social aspects—has emerged. This paper provides an analysis of different categories of existing energy system models and their ability to provide answers to questions arising from the current energy paradigm formulated within this study. The current energy paradigm and the relevant questions were defined by conducting conceptual framework analysis. The overarching question of the current paradigm asks how different energy pathways impact on the (sustainable) development of the energy system and overall (sustainable) development globally and nationally. A review of energy system models was conducted to analyse what questions of the current energy paradigm are addressed by which models. The results show that most models address aspects of the current energy paradigm but often in a simplified way. To answer some of the questions of the current energy paradigm in more depth and to get novel insights on sustainable energy system development, it might be necessary use complementary methods in addition to traditional energy modelling methodological approaches.

Suggested Citation

  • Nathalie Spittler & Ganna Gladkykh & Arnaud Diemer & Brynhildur Davidsdottir, 2019. "Understanding the Current Energy Paradigm and Energy System Models for More Sustainable Energy System Development," Energies, MDPI, vol. 12(8), pages 1-22, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jeners:v:12:y:2019:i:8:p:1584-:d:226000
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