Developing a transport demand model for whole system energy planning in Sweden
The objective of the thesis is to develop a vehicle stock model to investigate decarbonisation pathways for the Swedish transport sector.
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 which is largely electrificed 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.
The transport sector is the largest consumer of fossil fuels and one of the main sources of greenhouse gas emissions in Sweden. To better represent the transport sector, energy system models normally represent the changing stock of vehicles by size and fuel type, incorporating information about average total annual mileage using a simplified accounting approach. However, there are more detailed transport modelling approaches that better represent the how journeys differ over space and time, information which becomes more important when you consider electric vehicle charging.
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 a vehicle stock model which differentiates vehicle type, size and fuel, and incorporate this into the Nordic OSeMOSYS model, investigating different scenarios for decarbonising the transport sector.
- 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.