Informing deep GHG emission reduction strategies through integrated energy system modelling

In his PhD thesis, Manuel Sanchez Dieguez explores the Dutch energy transition towards carbon neutrality. For this, he enhanced an integrated modelling framework which allowed him to take into account sectoral integration, the effect of novel technologies, and the intricate temporal dynamics required to work with intermittent renewable energy sources. To contribute to this modelling framework, Sanchez Dieguez developed two integrated energy system models, which use harmonized optimization and simulation methodologies (IESA-Opt and IESA-Sim, respectively). 

Sanchez Dieguez describes the linear programming behind IESA-Opt, implements this model for the Dutch energy system, and measures the effect of enabling or disabling key modelling capabilities. Sanchez Dieguez furthermore presents the formulation behind the IESA-Sim model, and uses this framework to identify optimal pathways to decarbonize the Dutch energy system, so after the first implementation, he performed a thorough analysis on the decarbonization of the industrial sector. Sanchez Dieguez produced 4 pathways around CCUS, bio-based, electrified and hydrogen based solutions and compared them against the optimal mix of solutions. One of the results of this analysis is the need for biogenic carbon capture and storage to achieve carbon neutrality. 

The last goal of this work is to provide insights to design better policies for the transition. To do this, Sanchez Dieguez used a Pareto front provided by IESA-Opt and simulations from IESA-Sim to quantify the effectiveness and efficiency of different policies to reach the emission reduction targets.

Dissertation: https://hdl.handle.net/11370/4f42d90a-500d-4817-a92b-463a6f4a2641