Man at computer using modelling programs.

Understanding and planning energy futures

By developing models about future energy needs and impacts, CSIRO is helping industry and governments make decisions about energy technologies and reducing emissions.

• 2 June 2009 | Updated 27 April 2012

• Planning a sustainable future in energy
• The Future Fuels Forum

No single energy solution will solve the current global energy puzzle.

Issues like increased demand, environmental sustainability, greenhouse gas policy compliance, economic viability, energy security and social acceptability create a complex arena with multiple variables.

Consequently, delivering energy solutions for a sustainable future is a huge challenge but with decision support and by expanding the information base for decision-making this task becomes easier.

While CSIRO develops a range of technical and scientific solutions for the energy industry we also apply an integrated modelling approach to examine the implications of pursuing alternative technology paths.

Our energy modelling provides a foundation for research into energy technologies and behaviours, and helps to give Australia a clearer picture of what it needs to do to address the energy challenge.

Planning a sustainable future in energy

Our research looks at understanding the technology options for the Australian energy sector over the next 20 to 50 years, such as:

• near-zero emission technologies
• energy storage
• hybrid electric vehicles
• distributed generation.

Each of these options aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

We create and assess scenarios using a variety of modelling approaches, focusing primarily on the electricity generation and road transport sector, major producers of greenhouse gases.

We work with partners from industry, government and community groups to identify plausible scenarios and develop innovative modelling approaches to determine implications for the economy, energy prices, technology uptake, greenhouse gas emissions and other environmental indicators.

The Future Fuels Forum

CSIRO and its partners recently set up the Future Fuels Forum.

Against the backdrop of high fuel pump prices, peak oil concerns, fuel security and climate change, the Forum worked to identify scenarios that could shape a new fuel mix for Australia to 2050.

Some of these scenarios were subsequently included in the Garnaut Review and will be used to inform policy as the country moves towards a cleaner transport fuel industry.

Read more about the Future Fuels Forum.