Whole Energy Systems

Abstract:

A ‘whole systems’ approach to energy seeks to encompass all aspects of the energy system and its interdependencies by developing evidence to support scenario building and models that demonstrate how this system will evolve (UKRI, 2024). It provides insights into how changes to individual components can influence broader system behaviour (Energy Systems Catapult, 2024). This approach integrates engineering, economics, and physical, environmental, and social dimensions, viewing the energy system as dynamically complex. It broadly encompasses the technologies, physical infrastructure, institutions, policies, and practices within the UK that work together to deliver energy services to consumers. Prior to the UK Government’s Energy Review in 2004, the delivery of energy in the UK was largely managed via three separate systems - electricity, natural gas and liquid hydrocarbons. Although there were interactions in the margins of these three systems (not least the use of natural gas for electricity production), they were largely dedicated to separate end uses – an electricity system, a natural gas system for heat, and liquid hydrocarbons system for transport. The 2004 review, authored by the Cabinets Office’s Performance and Innovation Unit, was purposed with driving the transformative change required to modernise the UK’s energy system. It took a more holistic perspective, emphasising the need for a strategic and integrated approach to dealing with the UK’s energy challenges and, in doing so, laid the foundations for whole systems thinking within the energy sector.

Publication Year:

2024

Publisher:

UKERC

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5286/UKERC.EDC.000992

Author(s):

Brown, Z. and Colechin, M.