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The growing complexity and the many challenges related to fast-changing and highly de-carbonised electricity systems require reliable and robust open source energy modelling frameworks. Their reliability may be tested on a series of well-posed benchmarks that can be used and shared by the modelling community. This paper describes and integrates stand-alone, independent modules to compute the costs and benefits of flexible generation options in the open source energy investment modelling framework OSeMOSYS. The modules are applied to a case study that may work as a benchmark. The whole documentation of the modules and the test case study are retrievable, reproducible, reusable, interoperable, and auditable. They create a case to help establish a FAIR-compliant, user-friendly, and low-threshold model and data standards in modelling practices. As is well known, one of the options for balancing high shares of variable renewables is flexible power generation by dispatchable units. The associated costs need to be considered for short-term operational analyses and for long-term investment plans. The added modules contribute to extending the modelling capacity by introducing (a) costs of ramping, (b) non-linear decrease of efficiency at partial load operation, and the cost minimisation objective function of OSeMOSYS. From application to the test case study, two main insights are drawn: costs of ramping and decreased partial load efficiency may influence the competitiveness of generation technologies in the provision of reserve capacity; and refurbishment of existing units may represent attractive investment options for increasing flexibility. Both effects are also seen in the long-term and may impact infrastructure investment decisions to meet decarbonisation targets. These effects would not be captured without the introduction of the modules., QC 20190820

The generation mix of Cyprus has been dominated by oil products for decades. In order to conform with European Union and international legislation, a transformation of the supply system is called for. Energy system models can facilitate energy planning into the future, but a large volume of data is required to populate such models. The present data article provides information on key modelling assumptions and input data adopted with the aim of representing the electricity supply system of Cyprus in a separate research article. Data in regards to renewable energy technoeconomic characteristics and investment cost projections, fossil fuel price projections, storage technology characteristics and system operation assumptions are described in this article., QC 20180122

There are a range of research needs that have emerged from the activities of INSIGHT_E. Whilst researching across a range of topics, the need for a more in-depth understanding have become increasingly evident. Such research topics include energy poverty, new market designs for electricity, and enhanced modeling of the Europe-wide system. In addition, the policy situation has changed, with the ratification of the Paris Agreement and new Commission proposals across a range of energy issues. This calls for a response from the research community., QC 20180226

While the European Union is well on track with the implementation of its energy and climate policies, it is facing a complex situation. The energy transition will require new market designs which deliver on climate policy targets, ensure energy security, and provide affordable energy services to final consumers. At the same time national policies are to some extent contrasted by the launch of the Energy Union. This chapter provides some concluding thoughts on this energy transition, based on the analysis presented in this section on Europe's Energy Policy Landscape., QC 20180226

QC 20180226

At present, power supply in the EU is characterized by a relatively high reliability. It should, however, not be taken for granted given the increasing shares of variable RES. Choosing the socioeconomically optimal level of reliability to aim for requires a thorough understanding of the socioeconomic costs of electricity supply interruptions. This chapter provides guidance on how to measure the consequences of supply interruptions and thus determine the value of electricity supply security., QC 20180214

This chapter sets out the key challenges ahead for the European energy system, as it transitions to one that is low-carbon, both secure and reliable, and meets the energy needs of European citizens. It highlights the need for a comprehensive and cohesive policy package, as further considered in more detail in Chapter 33, Developing the Policy Package., QC 20180214

INSIGHT_E is a think tank that offers unbiased energy policy advice and insights to the European Commission. The consortium forming INSIGHT_E combines a multidisciplinary group of 12 different partners based in nine different European countries. In order to provide energy policy advice and insights, it has developed tools and instruments to assess the impact of the energy transition in all its dimensions, including its drivers. Its three main types of publications include Rapid Response Energy Briefs, Hot Energy Topics, and Policy Reports. Its fourth key output is an Observatory, which provides access to all of INSIGHT_E's publications, tools, and instruments, including webinars, information corners, and statistical indicators on the energy transition of the European Union., QC 20180214