Maximising equity outcomes of energy demand solutions

To achieve a net-zero society, it is crucial to implement energy demand measures that are equitable for all. This project explores how different energy demand solutions could be designed and deployed in ways that could result in maximised equity in diverse energy communities.  

We first conducted a systematic literature review of the existing equity indicators/metric and equity consideration in energy system planning. By combining the findings from these two perspectives, we propose modelling to support decision-making at multiple levels and with different focuses. In collaboration with other themes, we apply the model to different community examples to fully reflect the diversity of local energy systems.  

• Define equity objective at household, regional, national, and global level 

• Develop energy-demand-centred optimisation model to maximise equity 

• Apply the model to communities located in different places

We did literature review from two perspectives: 

• Indicators and metric related with equity 

• How to measure and incorporate equity in energy system modelling 

We develop an energy-demand-centred mixed integer optimisation model to maximise equity as the objective function. This model is based on mixed-integer linear programming and take technology, policy, and social impacts into account. An example of the model can be found from our publication Tackling fuel poverty and decarbonisation in a distributed heating system through a three-layer whole system approach.

There are indicators and database allow us to assess energy equity at multiple levels and with different focuses, with details shown in the blog. 

Previous studies on energy equity emphasises a focus on specific populations who have long been victims of systemic energy injustice. We should measure energy equity outcomes and conditions at all levels, from individual households to global systems, to ensure that changes have the desired effect at all levels. We will publish a review paper about the equity measurement and optimisation in energy systems.