The Joint Research Laboratory on Energy Planning (JRL ePLAN) focuses on the development of advanced methodologies, models and tools to support energy planning and decision-making in the context of the energy transition. Its research activity is structured around the following interconnected research areas:
This research area addresses energy transition processes at local, regional and national scales, combining energy system modelling with socioeconomic analysis. The objective is to assess the energy, environmental, economic and social impacts of different transition pathways, supporting evidence-based strategies for decarbonisation and sustainable development.
JRL ePLAN develops diagnostic frameworks for the analysis of complex energy systems across multiple dimensions:
- Multiscale energy systems
- Multisectoral energy systems
- Multivector energy systems
This line focuses on understanding the current structure, performance and interactions within energy systems as a basis for robust planning and scenario analysis.
This research line addresses the integrated planning and assessment of energy infrastructures required for the energy transition, including:
- Electricity infrastructure
- Heating and cooling networks
- Gas infrastructure
- Hydrogen infrastructure
The objective is to analyse infrastructure needs, constraints and synergies across energy vectors, supporting coordinated and efficient infrastructure development.
This area focuses on the assessment of emerging and innovative energy technologies from a system perspective, including:
- Analysis of the deployment potential of mitigation technologies
- Design of optimal technology mixes
- Evaluation of technical, economic and system viability
The research supports strategic decisions on technology selection and prioritisation within long-term energy planning frameworks.
JRL ePLAN develops tools and methodologies for long-term prospective analysis, including:
- Scenario generation under different assumptions and boundary conditions
- Assessment of impacts associated with alternative energy transition pathways
This line provides quantitative insights to support strategic planning, policy design and investment decision-making.
This research area focuses on the interaction between energy systems, markets and society, including:
- Electricity market analysis and price formation
- Market regulation and policy frameworks
- Energy–society interactions
The objective is to understand economic drivers and regulatory conditions shaping energy system evolution and to assess their implications for planning and policy.
JRL ePLAN develops advanced decision-support tools to assist public authorities, regulators and other stakeholders, including:
- Multicriteria impact assessment tools
- Tools supporting the definition and evaluation of energy policies
- Structural geology: focused on understanding the organization of the Earth’s crust structures and their impact on regional geodynamic evolution.
- Geological mapping: production of terrestrial and marine geological maps.
- Applied geology: for infrastructure development, renewable energy, and natural resource management.