Developing a residential demand model for whole system energy planning in Sweden
The objective of the thesis is to develop a national model of residential/building demand using the highest spatially and temporally resolved data that is feasible in the timeline of the project. This might include building outline datasets to calculate floor area or population microsimulation to estimate building occupancy. Ultimately, estimates of demand for energy services should be produced. These information will be implemented into the OSeMOSYS Nordic model to investigate the role of fuel switching, alternative heat sources and electrification in the demand sector as a mitigation option.
This is one of a series of linked Masters theses on the topic of spatial energy research and whole system energy planning.
Background
The latest research shows that it is essential to better incorporate spatial information into the planning of modern energy systems. To reach net zero, we seek to integrate high levels of variable renewable energy, a flexible demand side and co-locate supply technologies alongside demand centres to operate the energy system more efficiently.
The energy system modelling team at KTH is currently developing an OSeMOSYS model for the Nordics which will incorporate high-resolution spatial information on the supply and demand sectors. Until now, there has been little development of demand-side modelling in any OSeMOSYS modelling.
While Nordic buildings are generally well insulated and of a good standard, there is considerable variation in building types, size, quality and occupancy. Sweden is large, so weather and temperatures and therefore heating demands differ over space and time. Energy service demand could also be influenced by the age of residents, number of occupants, and socio-economic status.
Task description
The thesis will be divided into several stages:
- Familiarisation and Planning – the student will determine the scope of the project with the supervisor team, review, select and conduct training on required software tools, data, supplemented with a short, targeted literature review.
- Implementation – the student will implement an energy service demand model which differentiates demands by sector and fuel type, and incorporate this into the Nordic OSeMOSYS model, investigating different scenarios.
- Writing Up and Examination – the student will finalise and present the written report.
Learning outcomes
After completing the thesis work, the student will be able to:
- Develop a vehicle stock model and link it to an energy system model
- Conduct a research project independently from developing the overall research design through to the delivery of a final report
- Communicate results coherently and in a scientific manner
If the work is of good quality and the student is interested, the research project will be designed to be suitable for a peer-reviewed publication in a high-quality journal.
Prerequisites
Students should be familiar with the OSeMOSYS model and Excel, ideally have familiarity with Python. The student should have an enthusiasm for sustainability/climate action, and have the ability to work independently to lead a research project by identifying key problems and delivering a solution.
Track Specialization
Transformation of Energy System (TES)
Division/Department
– Department of Energy Technology
Research areas
Duration
20 weeks, starting January 2024.
How to apply
Send an email expressing your interest in the topic and your CV to the supervisor.
Supervision
