Enhancing Socio-Economic Impact Assessment in Climate-Compatible and Self-Sufficient Rural Communities through Integrated Resource Optimization Models

Background

Despite the increasing application of integrative resource planning tools such as Climate, Land, Energy, and Water system (CLEWs) models globally, very few incorporate assessments of socio-economic impacts, such as job creation and loss, associated with investments in climate, land, energy, and water systems and infrastructure in rural remote settings. Adopting a nexus perspective and employing a system thinking approach to resource management can offer valuable insights. With reference to the role of this approach, it guides integrative resource planning and decision-making. This, in turn, contributes to the establishment of self-sufficient communities and the assessment of the potential of decentralized energy systems. Furthermore, it assumes a crucial role in providing the requisite knowledge for fostering climate-compatible development and improving the socio-economic well-being of communities. This is achieved through the responsible management of existing local resources and applying principles from a circular economy model, representing a key sustainability pathway.

Task description

The student will use an integrated resource modelling approach combining Circular Economy with a focus on energy planning. This includes making informed decisions about the potential for integrated resource management and investment needs in each represented system, specifically on energy, food, and land systems. Nonetheless, the specific topic and methodology to follow will be decided based on the student's interests and discussions with the supervisors.

Travel grant

The student will have an opportunity to apply for travel grants to conduct fieldwork, specifically in a rural community in the Cauca region of Colombia, in collaboration with the University of Cauca.

Learning outcomes

Upon completion of the thesis work, the student will be able to:

• Constructing an integrated resource optimization model with a focus on socio-economic aspects.

• Evaluating the support provided by an open-source integrated resource optimization model for decision-making.

• Discussing decision-making insights derived from an integrated resource modelling application within the context of a rural system.

Prerequisites

While prior knowledge of the OSeMOSYS modelling tool or other Input-Output methods for resource management or circularity performance assessment is advantageous, it is optional. Proficiency in Spanish is also beneficial. Understanding the basic principles of the participatory approach and qualitative data collection methods is advantageous.

Criteria for evaluation

Throughout the entire thesis project work and method development, key metrics for the final assessment include:

• Fulfilment of the Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) for the Master Thesis at KTH’s ITM School.

• Demonstration of the student's initiative and customization of research questions.

• A critical perspective, system-thinking and discussion of relevant aspects.

• Consideration and appropriate utilisation of existing literature.

• Capacity to synthesize and communicate the research in a well-written, concise, and proficiently articulated thesis report

If the quality of the work meets the standards and if the student desires, we will guide the work towards being suitable for submission to a high-quality journal for publication.

Track Specialization

Transformation of Energy System (TES)

Division/Department

Division of Energy Systems  – Department of Energy Technology

Research areas

• Integrated Climate, Land, Energy and Water Systems
• Science-Policy-Society Interactions
• Circular economy

Duration

The thesis is to start at the beginning of period 3, at the end of January or early February 2025.

How to apply

Send an email expressing your interest in the topic and your CV to the supervisors.

Supervision