Systems Dynamics Modelling To Assess The
Sustainability Of Renewable Energy Technologies
In Developing Countries
Author(s)
A. C. Brent, M. B. Mokheseng, B. Amigun, H. Tazvinga
& J. K. Musango
Abstract
The ‘water-energy nexus’ is now receiving more attention as policy- and
decision-makers grapple with measures to enable the transition to a sustainable,
low-carbon economy. South Africa, in particular, finds itself in a polycrisis in
terms of dealing with economic development, to alleviate poverty, within water
and energy constraints. In the Western Cape Province of the country,
desalination is suggested as one solution to the water shortage crisis, but the
critical issue is that of energy supply, and the related cost implications, for water
supply; concentrated solar thermal technology options are currently considered.
In this paper a systems dynamics approach is used to assess the sustainability of
these types of renewable energy technologies. The objectives of the paper are
thus twofold. Firstly, the paper demonstrates the potential suitability of system
dynamics modelling to inform policy- and decision-making in the developing
country context. Secondly, the paper highlights the sustainability issues that must
be addressed appropriately if concentrated solar thermal, and other renewable
energy systems, are to be used in developing countries at the scale of
desalination. Recommendations are made accordingly to improve the analysis,
and its usefulness, to utilise this technique effectively in the future.
Keywords: systems dynamics, technology assessment, technology strategy,
technology policy, Africa.
Keywords
systems dynamics, technology assessment, technology strategy,
technology policy, Africa
Related Book
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