ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL MODELLING

MARKAL is a least cost optimisation model used by ETSU to analyse the response of the UK energy system to a range of future fuel price and energy demand scenarios. The system modelled includes both current and future energy production, conversion and demand-side technologies. The model is supported by an extensive database of technology cost and performance data, including emissions of CO₂, SO_x, NO_x and VOCs.

The model has been used to analyse the cost and technical implications of imposing limits on future UK atmospheric emissions, with constraints being applied at the national, sector, sub-sector or technology level. Recent work has included a restructuring of the database to add an oil refinery sector and the incorporation of a sophisticated simulation model of the industrial sector.

The model has been used extensively in support of policy analysis work on behalf of a number of Government Departments, both in the UK and abroad.