Comparison methods of energy system frameworks, models and scenario results

Abstract

Energy system modeling has a central role in assessing the future energy system and helping policy makers to set targets and subsidizing mechanisms. In the years, different energy system models have been developed with the aim of supporting political decision-makers in the design of energy policies. It is relevant to compare and cross-validate these models in order to add robustness to the final results and technical feasibility of the identified transition pathways. Two main methods to compare these models exist i) comparison of the technical features and characteristics of the models and ii) comparison of the final results. While there are several reviews focusing on the comparison of models based on their technical characteristics and features, to the authors’ knowledge, no review article exists on comparison techniques based on final results. The scope of this paper is to carry out a review of existing methods and techniques to compare energy system frameworks, models, and scenario results regarding their final results.