The growing share of variable renewable energy sources like wind and solar affects the energy system’s structure. Moreover, as the electricity, heating and transportation sectors become integrated, the complexity of the whole energy system increases. Therefore, solving isolated problems is not a valid path forward; instead, systems thinking is needed to transform the energy system successfully.

Several energy system models exist; one of them, Balmorel, has just reached its 20th anniversary. Wiese et al. (2018) describe the design, development and applications of the open-source energy system model. The model includes converting energy resources to electricity and heat, storage and transmission and associated costs and losses related to energy distribution. Balmorel is widely used, and its flexible structure makes it a suitable tool for the challenges of the ongoing energy transition.

Wiese, Frauke, Rasmus Bramstoft, Hardi Koduvere, Amalia Pizarro Alonso, Olexandr Balyk, Jon Gustav Kirkerud, Åsa Grytli Tveten, Torjus Folsland Bolkesjø, Marie Münster, and Hans Ravn. 2018. “Balmorel Open Source Energy System Model.” Energy Strategy Reviews 20 (April): 26–34. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.esr.2018.01.003.