Using agent-based models to generate transformation knowledge for the German energiewende-potentials and challenges derived from four case studies

The German Energiewende is a deliberate transformation of an established industrial economy towards a nearly CO2-free energy system accompanied by a phase out of nuclear energy. Its governance requires knowledge on how to steer the transition from the existing status quo to the target situation (transformation knowledge). The energy system is,...

Simulating co-diffusion of innovations: Feedback technology & behavioral change

Automated model structure variation and policy robustness testing: A procedure for innovation diffusion models

n this paper we present a procedure that enables a systematic and partially automated parameterization and selection of agent-based models of the diffusion of innovations and policies to support diffusion processes. A prototype on the diffusion of water saving shower heads is presented. Our results suggest that the presented approach can...

Agent-based Modeling Automated: Data-driven Generation of Innovation Diffusion Models

Simulation modeling is useful to gain insights into driving mechanisms of diffusion of innovations. This study aims to introduce automation to make identification of such mechanisms with agent-based simulation modeling less costly in time and labor. We present a novel automation procedure in which the generation of diffusion models is automated....

Agent-based modeling 2.0: Data-driven selection of model structure

Agent-based modeling is useful to simulate the human role in socio-technical systems. Thereby, the complexity of such systems can be captured. For instance, it has shown to be useful at simulating innovation in socio-technical systems. We develop a next step in which laborious model building is automated. We present a working example on...

Agent-based assessment framework for behavior-changing feedback devices: Spreading of devices and heating behavior

Heating behavior of households is key for reducing domestic energy demand and mitigating climate change. Recently, various technical devices have been developed, providing households with feedback on their heating behavior and supporting energy conservation behavior. The impact of such devices on overall energy consumption depends on (1) the...