We conducted a workshop on energy modelling for energy planning experts in Pakistan. The workshop consisted of six days with sessions of four hours and focused on using the energy systems model TIMES. We concluded with a session on the first steps to build the TIMES-Pakistan model.
Our participants were primarily from the Energy Planning and Resource Centre (EPRC) and the Central Power Purchasing Agency (CPPA). The project was financed by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), a national laboratory of the U.S. Department of Energy.
Scope
Pakistan developed its first National Climate Change Policy (NCCP) in 2012 and ratified the Paris Agreement in 2016. In the updated Nationally Determined Contributions 2021 Pakistan set a cumulative ambitious conditional target of overall 50% reduction of its projected emissions by 2030.
Energy system models make it possible to identify and analyze energy system transition pathways based on different criteria. Simultaneously, the models allow you to test various macroeconomic assumptions and the impact of policy decisions and targets.
Combined with careful scenario analysis, energy system models enable analysts and policymakers to identify promising emissions reduction measures.
Models and methodologies
The experts were introduced to the characteristics of the TIMES model, examples of TIMES applications and results, and the VEDA2.0 interface.
We also supervised hands-on sessions with demo models, introduced an example of Multi-regional VEDA-TIMES templates, and offered guidance on how to start building the TIMES-Pakistan model.
The TIMES model is a bottom-up optimization model for energy-environment systems. The TIMES model is internationally recognized and developed under The Energy Technology Systems Analysis Program (ETSAP).
ETSAP is the International Energy Agency (IEA) Technology Collaboration Program. E4SMA is participating in the Programme and contributes to the ongoing work to further develop and improve the TIMES model.
| Country: Pakistan
| Client: The Central Power Purchasing Agency (CPPA) and the Energy Planning and Resource Centre (EPRC), Ministry of Planning, Development & Special Initiatives
| Donor: the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), U.S. Department of Energy
| Contact person: Maurizio Gargiulo
| Activities: Capacity building
| Duration: February – March, 2024
Graphic credits: Freepik