Development of an energy sector modeling tool

Cambodia is committed to a decarbonization trajectory with the goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. In this context, the Cambodian Ministry of Economy and Finance (MEF) aims to acquire a tool for scenario planning to project possible energy trajectories for the country. This tool, based on an Excel spreadsheet, will facilitate the development of future scenarios and the formulation of recommendations for associated policies and action plans.

This initiative was carried out in close collaboration with the Ministry of Energy and involved a multi-sector working group with stakeholders from transport, industry, environment, agriculture, and other sectors. The methodology employed is based on the DDP – Deep Decarbonisation Pathways framework from IDDRI.

The modeling tool used is CEPIA – Cambodia by Artelys, which is fully transparent and tailored to address the national energy transition challenges. It considers critical issues such as the reliance on wood and charcoal, which constitutes 70% of the energy balance, and the strong push for energy independence while transitioning away from coal.

• Adaptation and Delivery: Customization and implementation of the CEPIA by ARTELYS tool, tailored to national specifics, including the role of wood energy in domestic and small-scale industrial use. The modeling covers the energy sector up to 2050, incorporating over 10 demand sectors and a Python-based optimization module for the electricity sector.
• Training and Documentation: Preparation of a user manual in English, along with sector-specific training sessions conducted remotely and in person. This includes two multi-sector workshops to present and discuss energy trajectories and action plans.
• Strategic Communication: Cambodia became the first developing country to present a net-zero strategy for 2050, the LT-LEDS (Long-Term Low Emissions Development Strategy), at the Glasgow COP. IED contributed by writing the Energy chapter of this strategy