Operations Research 2025
Abstract Submission

2169. Developing a multi-criteria model for sustainability assessment of regional energy systems

Invited abstract in session TD-9: Optimization in Energy Infrastructure Planning, stream Energy and Sustainability.

Thursday, 14:30-16:00
Room: H15

Authors (first author is the speaker)

1. Caroline Andersen
TU Dortmund
2. Martin Schulwitz
Spatial Planning, TU Dortmund University
3. Lars-Peter Lauven
TU Dortmund

Abstract

The decarbonisation of energy systems will play a central role in achieving climate neutrality. Therefore, a comprehensive transformation of the energy system is needed and requires not only the deployment of new technologies (e.g. hydrogen production, renewable energies), but also the planning and adaptation of the necessary infrastructures for their implementation. The optimal design of energy infrastructures is influenced by many local factors, including the type of major industries in the area, existing infrastructure, and geographical conditions. Consequently, a new modelling tool is required that accounts for spatial interdependencies at a high resolution. The aim of this contribution is to propose a multi-criteria assessment model for integrated infrastructure planning. To demonstrate its potential, the model is applied to a case study in a German region, and the corresponding results are presented.
By examining the impacts of energy systems on selected sustainability criteria within a specific region the model is designed to support decision-making and to accelerate the planning process. In accordance with the principles of sustainable development and the energy policy triangle, criteria such as affordability, security of supply and environmental compatibility are combined with spatial criteria, including land usage and bundling effects. These criteria are determined through the application of life cycle assessment (LCA) and spatial analysis, and are subsequently weighted using methods of multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA). The model is developed and applied within the framework of the ‘HydroNet’ project funded by the German Federal Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Action.

Keywords

Status: accepted


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