A review of spatio-temporal urban energy system modeling for urban decarbonization strategy formulation

This comprehensive review covers currently applied concepts and related spatio-temporal energy modeling tools for integrated demand-supply analyses of urban energy systems at district and city scales. The review introduces an assessment method that aims to determine the suitability of selected concepts and tools to provide decision support regarding the transformation of urban energy systems towards sustainable and low-carbon systems. Acknowledging the requirements on urban energy system modeling, including the building and mobility sectors, and considering the main spatio-temporal characteristics of urban energy systems, a systematic novel screening and evaluation approach is presented and applied. 10 modeling dimensions are identified based on literature review and serve as assessment criteria in the evaluation of 20 urban energy system modeling frameworks falling within the scope of this work. The evaluation results reveal a varying coverage of the identified modeling dimensions, with the aspects mobility and energy system flexibilization showing a notable underrepresentation. Research gaps are concluded and suggestions for further developments in the field of urban energy system modeling frameworks are provided.

Automated summary

This comprehensive review discusses concepts and tools used for integrated demand-supply analyses of urban energy systems. Through an assessment method, suitable concepts and tools can be determined for decision support in transforming urban energy systems towards sustainability. The evaluation reveals gaps in modeling frameworks in terms of mobility and energy system flexibility, and provides suggestions for further development.