Towards a better integration of transition dynamics and sufficiency in low-carbon scenarios

Integrated assessment models (IAMs) and energy systems models are used to produce scenarios that inform decision-makers about transitions to low-carbon systems. To be relevant, these models must take into account societal factors involved in the transition as well as potential levers for energy sufficiency. This seminar will present various research projects on these topics. First, the presentation will show an modeling study where six societal factors related to infrastructure dynamics, actors and their decisions, and the social and institutional context, are integrated into a simulation model of the national power system transition.  Next, an empirical analysis of energy use inequalities in Switzerland will be presented, along with their determinants and energy sufficiency potentials. Finally, the presentation will highlight new conceptualisations of energy sufficiency, both in terms of consumption floors and ceilings, to improve the assessment of energy sufficiency in future scenarios.