Developing energy system scenarios for municipalities - Introducing MUSEPLAN

Abstract

The value of energy system scenarios is increasingly asserted in a decentralised and municipal context. There is, however, a lack of suitable tools for designing such scenarios, particularly tools that empower local planning practitioners in active participation. With this study, we introduce a novel tool designed specifically for municipal energy system modelling, thus bridging the gap between model developers and planning practitioners. The applicability and suitability of the new MUSEPLAN tool is investigated through its application in a case municipality, revolving around the needs of planning practitioners, supporting the build-up of modelling capacity, and focusing on the practical development of energy system scenarios. MUSEPLAN draws on the specialist simulation model EnergyPLAN but provides an environment for integrated design and comparison of multiple scenarios while reducing the complexity through discarding some of the more advanced options. In conclusion, MUSEPLAN resolves the identified challenges to the integration of energy system modelling in municipal energy planning, while simplifying the modelling and scenario evaluation process.