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Energy modelling is the process of using mathematical models to develop abstractions and then seek insights into future energy systems. It can be an abstract academic activity. Or, it can insert threads that influence our development. We argue therefore, that energy modelling that provides policy support (EMoPS) should not only be grounded in rigorous analytics, but also in good governance principles. As, together with other policy actions, it should be accountable. Almost all aspects of society and much of its impact on the environment are influenced by our use of energy. In this context, EMoPS can inspire, motivate, calibrate, and ‘post assess’ energy policy. But, such modeling is often undertaken by too few analysts under time and resource pressure. Building on the advances of ‘class leaders’, we propose that EMoPS should reach for practical goals — including engagement and accountability with the communities it involves, and those it will later affect. (We use the term Ubuntu, meaning ‘I am because you are’ to capture this interdependency). We argue that Ubuntu, together with retrievability, repeatability, reconstructability, interoperability and auditability (U4RIA) of EMoPS should be used to signal the beginnings of a new default practice. We demonstrate how the U4RIA principles can contribute in practice using recent modelling of aspirational energy futures by Costa Rica as a case study. This modelling effort includes community involvement and interfaces and integrates stakeholder involvement. It leaves a trail that allows for its auditing and accountability, while building capacity and sustainable institutional memory.

Decarbonisation of national economies to mitigate climate change requires transformation of the entire energy system. Investments in renewable energy technologies in the electricity supply system are increasing, but substantial effort is called for in other sectors, such as transport. While European Union member states have submitted their integrated National Energy and Climate Plans, this paper focuses on partial electrification of the transport sector as a measure to reduce carbon dioxide emissions in the isolated grid system of Cyprus in a cost-effective manner. The present work assesses the impact of electric vehicle deployment on the share of renewable electricity generation, electricity costs and carbon dioxide emissions. Quantification of these aspects is provided with an outlook until 2035. A cost-optimisation model (OSeMOSYS) is used that takes into account the electricity supply, road transport, and heating and cooling sectors. Smart charging option is also evaluated as a possibility.

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The objective of this project is to investigate and determine the geothermal parameters of the ground in Cyprus, for use in the design of ground heat exchanger applications and ground thermal storage. Especially for the case of Cyprus, warm climate and the mild weather conditions in relation to other countries, provide a valuable set of conditions for the development of such energy systems.One of the specific objectives of the project is to investigate and accurately define the ground thermal properties in Cyprus so as to provide all interested in this technology, with actual ground data. Such information is currently unavailable. Different kinds of geological structures are being investigated as well. Subsequently, neural networks will be used for the generation of geothermal maps that will show the temperature distribution at 3 different depths. In this way and for the first time, the geographical area of Cyprus will be covered and valid data will be available. The purpose of this paper is to report the information collected at six representative sites of Cyprus and prepare a map depicting the thermal characteristics of the ground in Cyprus.