Integrating spatial models into regional energy system optimisation: focusing on biomass

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to outline an integrative modelling approach that includes agricultural and forestry process chains in an energy system model, on a regional scale. The main focus is on land use for biomass production, aimed at satisfying the demands for energy, food, and materials. Design/methodology/approach – The described model combines geographic modelling with a linear optimisation approach. The cost‐based optimisation of the energy system includes agricultural and forestry process chains. The system's commodities and processes are identified and these are linked appropriately in the specifications of the reference system. Spatial models provided geographically specific input data for the optimisation; these spatial models were based on publicly available data, regional heat and electricity demands, and regional biomass potentials. The optimisation tool was applied in two case studies. Findings – The optimisation results allow an improved understanding of the interdependencies between regional agricultural and forestry structures and the regional energy system. Future developments of the energy system can be quantified. The application of the model in the case studies has revealed the limits on biomass availability, even in rural areas, and the fossil fuel price sensitivity of an optimal system setup. Originality/value – Geographic models linked to a forecast model approach and based on publicly available data allow a high spatial resolution by taking into account the region‐specific conditions and mean that the modelling approach is transferrable to other regions. This paper provides an initial insight into the linkage between bottom‐up optimisation and spatial modelling, representing an innovative approach that is yet to be well explored.