Multi-faceted energy planning: A review

Energy planning can be defined as a roadmap for meeting the energy needs of a nation and is accomplished by considering multiple factors such as technology, economy, environment, and the society that impact the national energy issues. Long-term energy planning is a strategic approach to study how structural changes of a nation would affect the energy demand and supply. This is done through scenario analysis which would also cater for uncertainty in planning. Good energy plan would ensure sustainable development which acts as a guiding factor for any energy scheme. In this paper, we present an overview of the different facets of energy planning based on a comprehensive literature review. It present the risks, uncertainties and errors involved in energy planning. The econometric, optimization and simulation models are reviewed and five appropriate computer models, that can be used for a small developing island nation׳s long-term energy planning using scenario analysis, are discussed. This paper also discusses the inquiry method and elaborates on why it can be used for energy planning in small developing island countries. Validation process of energy models is also presented and finally, recommendations are made for energy planners.