Open data induces better energy decisions

2 July 2012

Open data induces better energy decisions

A new paper, published by Bloomberg, focuses on the promise of open, publically accessible software and data as well as crowdsourcing techniques to develop robust energy analysis tools that can deliver crucial, policy-relevant insight, particularly in developing countries where planning resources are highly constrained – and the need to adapt these resources and methods to the local context is high.

Informed energy decision making requires effective software, high-quality input data, and a suitably trained user community. Developing these resources can be expensive and time consuming.

Even when data and tools are intended for public re-use they often come with technical, legal, economic and social barriers that make them difficult to adopt, adapt and combine for use in new contexts.

“We survey existing research, which argues that these techniques can produce high-quality results, and also explore the potential role that linked, open data can play in both supporting the modelling process and in enhancing public engagement with energy issues,” says the paper in its executive summary.

“Energy analytics is essential to informing the design, implementation and operation of energy systems. This is particularly true in countries, which are undergoing rapid transformations of their energy systems. Developing these resources can be expensive and time consuming,” the paper concludes.

“In this context, open energy data and energy applications may induce better-informed energy decisions. These tools, models and applications are often easily adapted to local needs and can be a catalyst for innovation.”

Other than Bloomberg such as UNIDO, NREL, REEEP, universities and institutes have contributed to the paper.

Whereas the general focus of this document is on crowd sourcing as a way to make more out of available data, REEEP has highlighted the Open Data concept, and how it is relevant especially in the clean energy context.recycle.gif, writes Denise Recheis in reegle blog.

Governmental acceptance and adoption of open data has been growing rapidly with examples ranging from the US and the UK, to Kenya and Ghana, and this is proofing the usefulness and increased acceptance of the Open Data movement.

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