Energy models are crucial for helping governments and policymakers plan long-term investments in the energy transition context. One of the most established open-source optimisation models is OSeMOSYS—the Open-Source Energy Modelling System. This paper presents a new interface—clicSAND—for OSeMOSYS, which shortens the learning curve and supports beginner energy modellers to perform long-term investment analyses efficiently. The freely available and open-source clicSAND software consists of a user-friendly Excel interface for entering data, powerful solvers, and a dashboard for visualising results. The results, which extend to 2070, can inform policy decisions and mobilise financial resources for sustainable development measures—for example, ensuring affordable and secure energy supply and mitigating the effects of climate change. This paper describes clicSAND's main benefits, architecture, and functionalities. Furthermore, a South-African case study carried out by participants of the latest international capacity building event—the EMP-A (Energy Modelling Platform for Africa) 2021—shows the results achieved by inexperienced users following a three-week training course. Finally, current applications and future extensions of the software are also presented.
Vietnam is at a critical juncture in planning for its future energy mix due to its fast-growing economy and recent climate commitments. Focusing on Vietnam’s energy system, this study incorporates a cost-optimization tool to investigate the impact of different policy decisions, resulting in a series of six different energy scenarios. The six scenarios include: (i) Power Development Plan VII (revised); (ii) Power Development Plan VIII (draft); (iii) Renewable Energy Development Strategy; (iv) Renewables-Led Pathway; (v) Net Zero; and (vi) Clean Energy Transition. Based on these cases, main insights are highlighted, with the aim of providing key stakeholders in energy policy strong modelling analysis on potential and practical energy mix alternatives over the next 20–30 years. Thus, modelling suggests that a fossil fuel phase-out and uptake of renewable technologies will allow Vietnam to achieve its climate commitments, whilst providing energy security within the nation. Additionally, adopting sustainable biomass will support the transition to net zero, and energy-efficient technologies will lower costs and emissions. This study also concludes the key findings with recommendations on achieving the optimal pathway for the development of Vietnam’s energy sector.
Morocco depends on imported fossil fuels for 90% of its primary energy supply. This makes the country vulnerable to unstable fuel prices and supply cut-offs, and the reliance on fossil fuels releases CO2 emissions which contribute to climate change. Renewable energy expansion, facilitated by Morocco’s high potential for solar and wind capacity, could allow the country to improve its energy security and decarbonise its energy system, in line with its response to the Paris Agreement. This study uses OSeMOSYS (the Open Source Energy Modelling System) to produce six cost-minimised decarbonisation scenarios for Morocco that consider energy independence. The results show that Morocco can achieve most of its decarbonisation targets through bulk wind and solar energy, with a coal phase-out being possible by 2031 at the latest. Natural gas is replaced by biomass and nuclear energy, with some evidence that fuel imports may stay relevant for the foreseeable future. We conclude with policy recommendations. The study can provide insights for policymakers and stakeholders in Morocco's energy sector to achieve optimal pathways for decarbonisation.
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