OASES: Open-Source and Data Strategy Report

This report provides a comprehensive overview of the strategies and implementations used by the OASES consortium to ensure the transparency, accessibility, and effective dissemination of its results within the African-European renewable energy community. As part of the LEAP-RE initiative, the project focuses on the development of a sustainable AU-EU ecosystem using open-source software and data strategies, fostering long-term collaboration in energy systems modelling between African and European partners.

The main objectives of this project include the dissemination of project results through various open-source platforms and the creation of a comprehensive model chain for renewable energy (RE) system detection, time series generation and energy system modelling. The measures taken to achieve it are described in detail in the following report.

Open-Source data and dissemination

To promote transparency and foster collaboration, the OASES consortium utilizes several platforms to disseminate its data and results:

·         GitHub: The project's source codes and scripts are systematically organized and published on GitHub. This platform facilitates collaboration between developers, researchers, and other stakeholders and ensures that all project developments are transparent and accessible for real-time updates and peer reviews.

·         Zenodo: In addition to GitHub, Zenodo is used to archive and distribute important datasets, models, and other project results. Zenodo, a general-purpose open repository developed under the European OpenAIRE program and operated by CERN, allows researchers to deposit research papers, datasets, research software, reports, and other research-related digital artifacts. Zenodo's secure and reliable infrastructure ensures long-term access and citation. Participation in the Zenodo LEAP-RE community extends the reach of the project and connects it to a wider network of renewable energy research initiatives.

·         LEAP-RE platform and newsletter: The LEAP-RE platform serves as a central hub for the African-European energy community, where project news and updates are regularly shared. This platform fosters connections, facilitates collaboration, and promotes mutual learning among members. In addition, the LEAP-RE newsletter is an important channel to promote the progress and achievements of the project and to reach a wide audience in the renewable energy sector.

·         Partner websites: Dedicated project pages on the websites of the OASES project partners (Fraunhofer IEE, University of Kassel and VTT) provide important entry points into the thematic landscape of the project. These pages ensure visibility and accessibility, direct visitors to key resources and increase the impact of the project.

·         Additional outreach activities: The OASES project organizes and participates in workshops, actively contributes to the LEAP-RE Stakeholder Forum, and presents at international scientific conferences. These activities aim to share knowledge, foster collaboration, and promote innovative solutions within the African-European energy community. By engaging directly with stakeholders and the scientific community, the project enhances its visibility, receives valuable feedback, and contributes to the global dialogue on sustainable energy.

Model Chain

An important outcome of the OASES project is the development of a comprehensive model chain to support renewable energy systems in Africa and Europe. This model chain consists of the following components:

·         Renewable Energy Source detection: the generation of open data on currently installed renewable energy systems. This is crucial for accurate resource assessment.

·         Time series generation of energy data: The generation of high-resolution wind and photovoltaic energy time series data with a spatial resolution of at least 1 km x 1 km and a temporal resolution of at least 1 hour. This data is standardized for integration into the IRENA FlexTool.

·         Modelling of energy systems: The IRENA FlexTool is chosen for modelling energy scenarios as it provides an accessible workflow that is applicable at local, national, regional, and continental scales. Six case studies are developed and documented, demonstrating the tool's adaptability and utility in different contexts in Africa and Europe.

Conclusion

This report highlights the findings in the overall context of the OASES project and illustrates how the use of open-source platforms and tools has enabled effective dissemination and collaboration. By ensuring that all data, models, and tools are accessible and transparent, the project not only contributes significantly to the advancement of renewable energy research, but also sets a standard for best practice in open science. The comprehensive modelling chain developed by the consortium, combined with strategic dissemination efforts, strengthens the project's role as a key player in promoting sustainable energy solutions within the African-European energy community.

Keywords

LEAP-RE, Open-Source, AU-EU Collaboration, Data Dissemination, Energy System Modelling, Energy Scenarios, IRENA FlexTool, Renewable Energy Sources, Renewable Energy Potential, Time Series Generation, Renewable Energy Sources Detection, Zenodo, GitHub