Carla is an energy engineer with a multidisciplinary background in modelling energy systems, sustainability, and related societal challenges. She has expertise in developing energy modelling tools as well as leading international capacity-building activities. Alongside her PhD research, she is a Research Associate for the Climate Compatible Growth Programme (Loughborough Centre for Sustainable Transitions: Energy, Environment, Resilience) and the Centre for Environmental Policy (Imperial College London). Additionally, she has served as a consultant for the International Atomic Energy Agency.
Enhancing Energy Planning in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: Integrating User-Friendly Modelling Tools, Data Accessibility, and Capacity Building for Sustainable Development
PGR Supervisors: Mark Howells and John Harrison
The global push toward sustainable development, underscored by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Paris Agreement, has intensified the focus on energy planning, particularly in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs). Despite this increased attention, LMICs continue to face significant challenges in independently managing their energy planning processes. These challenges stem from the limited accessibility of energy modelling tools, the usability of data, and the capacity of local practitioners. Existing energy modelling tools are, often developed in High-Income Countries (HICs) and, are not designed with the specific needs and contexts of LMICs in mind. They require advanced technical skills, standard modes of application are incompatible with the infrastructural realities of LMICs, and analysts frequently fail to incorporate local knowledge, leading to suboptimal energy planning outcomes.
This research addresses these barriers by exploring pragmatic solutions that enhance the effectiveness, sustainability, and local ownership of energy planning processes in LMICs. The research is structured around three overarching topics: the innovation of energy modelling tools, the enhancement of data usability and accessibility, and the advancement of energy education and capacity building.
First, the research explores methodological innovations in energy modelling tools, focusing on making these tools more user-friendly and inclusive. By developing and implementing intuitive user interfaces, the research demonstrates how simplifying the user experience and reducing technical barriers can democratize energy modelling, thereby enabling non-experts in LMICs to engage more effectively in energy planning. Furthermore, the integration of local case studies and data into these tools enhances their relevance and applicability within LMIC contexts.
Second, the research delves into improving data usability and accessibility, which is critical for accurate energy modelling and planning. The development of tools such as the DaCoMaTool and the creation of Starter Data Kits are highlighted as key strategies to standardize data collection, improve data quality, and ensure that data is both accessible and usable by local practitioners in LMICs. These tools and strategies address the need for reliable, locally relevant data, which is essential for informed decision-making.
Finally, the research emphasizes the importance of advancing energy education and capacity building to foster long-term sustainability in energy planning within LMICs. It examines the effectiveness of tailored capacity-building programs, online courses, and the integration of energy modelling education into university curricula. By equipping local experts with the necessary skills and knowledge, these initiatives aim to reduce dependence on external consultants and promote local ownership of energy planning processes.
In conclusion, this research presents a comprehensive approach to overcoming the barriers faced by LMICs in energy planning. By enhancing the accessibility of modelling tools, improving data usability, and building local capacity, the research contributes to empowering LMICs to take full ownership of their energy futures.
Cannone, C., Allington, L., de Wet, N., Shivakumar, A., Goyns, P., Valderrama, C., Kell, A., Plazas-Niño, F., Mohanty, R., Kapor, V., Wright, J., Yeganyan, R., Tan, N., Seng To, L., Harrison, J., & Howells, M. (2023). clicSAND for OSeMOSYS: A user-friendly interface using open-source optimisation software for energy system modelling analysis. Energies, 17(16), 3923. https://www.mdpi.com/1996-1073/17/16/3923
Cannone, C., Allington, L., Cervantes Barron, K., Charbonnier, F., Zachau Walker, M., Halloran, C., Yeganyan, R., Tan, N., Cullen, J.M., Harrison, J., To, L.S., & Howells, M. (2023). Designing a zero-order energy transition model: How to create a new Starter Data Kit. MethodsX, 10, 102120. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mex.2023.102120
Allington, L., Cannone, C., Cervantes Barron, K., Charbonnier, F., Zachau Walker, M., Halloran, C., & Howells, M. (2023). Data Collection and Manipulation Method for Starter Data Kits models. MethodsX, 10, 102121. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mex.2023.102121
Cannone, C., Hoseinpoori, P., Martindale, L., Tennyson, E.M., Gardumi, F., Somavilla Croxatto, L., Pye, S., Mulugetta, Y., Vrochidis, I., Krishnamurthy, S., et al. (2023). Addressing Challenges in Long-Term Strategic Energy Planning in LMICs: Learning Pathways in an Energy Planning Ecosystem. Energies, 16, 7267. https://doi.org/10.3390/en16217267