Open energy-system models are energy-system models that are open source.[a] However, some of them may use third-party proprietary software as part of their workflows to input, process, or output data. Preferably, these models use open data, which facilitates open science.
Energy-system models are used to explore future energy systems and are often applied to questions involving energy and climate policy. The models themselves vary widely in terms of their type, design, programming, application, scope, level of detail, sophistication, and shortcomings. For many models, some form of mathematical optimization is used to inform the solution process.
Energy regulators and system operators in Europe and North America began adopting open energy-system models for planning purposes in the early‑2020s.[1] Open models and open data are increasingly being used by government agencies to guide the develop of net‑zero public policy as well (with examples indicated throughout this article). Companies and engineering consultancies are likewise adopting open models for analysis (again see below).
Cite error: There are <ref group=lower-alpha> tags or {{efn}} templates on this page, but the references will not show without a {{reflist|group=lower-alpha}} template or {{notelist}} template (see the help page).