Modelling of the energy sector

So far work on the energy sector has concentrated mainly on SO2, NOx and fine particulate emissions resulting from power generation, industry and domestic energy sources, combined with corresponding emissions of these pollutants from the transport sector (see modelling of the transport sector ). European and UK scenarios have been assessed up to 2020 with respect to improvements in human exposure to fine particulates, and ecosystem damage by acidification and eutrophication; also to urban air quality.

However energy generation by combustion is responsible for both air quality pollutants and greenhouse gas emissions. New work will therefore be oriented towards the synergies between the two, and investigation of a range of UK energy scenarios developed both from European energy generation models and within the UK. This work will be taken forward under the collaboration within the UK National Focal Centre for Integrated Assessment Modelling in conjunction with other DEFRA contractors. However, there is also extensive expertise within Imperial College to draw on too, including Imperial's Centre for Energy Policy and Technology and linked to the Grantham Institute.  The IAU also collaborates with many external partners, both nationally and internationally- see UK National Focal Centre for Integrated Assessment Modelling.