A representation of the Slovenian energy system using the needs times model

The relationships between anthropogenic activities and the environment require a careful analysis of economic and technological implication of energy-climate policies, to redirect the energy systems towards a sustainable configuration. This implies the implementation of innovative decisional tools for policy assessment to support the policy makers in the definition of effective energy-environmental strategies, coherent at different spatial scales. In this framework partial equilibrium models as the TIMES models generator, developed under the IEA-ETSAP Programme, represent a powerful tool to analyse global, national and local issues and to support the formulation of comprehensive policies. These tools are utilized in the framework of the Integrated Project NEEDS of the VI Framework Programme to implement a unique modelling platform, the Pan European NEEDS TIMES model, based on the integration of the energy system models of 30 EU countries, which are linked by energy and emissions trades. This paper is aimed to describe the NEEDS TIMES methodological approach in the Slovenia case study, providing a full picture of the actual national energy system and discussing the model indications for its development on a 50-year time horizon, based on a least-cost approach in an unconstrained (Business As Usual - BAU) scenario.