Developing a community of practice around an open source energy modelling tool. (May 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Niet, T.; Shivakumar, A.; Gardumi, F.; Usher, W.; Williams, E.; Howells, M.
• Is Part Of: Energy strategy reviews. Volume 35(2022)
• Publication Date: 2021-05
• Subjects: Energy system modelling -- Open source software -- Public policy -- Software development -- Outreach; Energy policy -- Periodicals; 333.7905
• DOI: 10.1016/j.esr.2021.100650
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2211-467X

Abstract

Abstract: Energy modelling is critical for addressing challenges such as integrating variable renewable energy and addressing climate impacts. This paper describes the updated code management structure and code updates, the revised community forum and the outreach activities that have built a vibrant community of practice around OSeMOSYS. The code management structure has allowed code improvements to be incorporated into the model, the community forum provides users with a place to ask and answer questions, and the outreach activities connect members of the community. Overall, these three pillars show how a community of practice can be built around an open source tool and provides an example for other developers and users of open source software wanting to build a community of practice. Highlights: A user community has developed around the OSeMOSYS Open Source Energy Modelling System. Recent enhancements to the governance structure and the modelling tool strengthen the community of practice. OSeMOSYS provides an example for other users of open source software to build a community of practice.