With growth in the number of variables making long-term energy planning increasingly complex, scenario development and energy modelling are more crucial than ever. However, developing the requisite analytical capacities is complicated and time-consuming.

We therefore encourage countries to take ownership of and dedicate resources to these processes as early as possible. It is better to begin modestly and expand gradually than wait for the perfect opportunity to undertake a complete overhaul of the policy planning system. Support is available in the form of methodological guidance, training materials and modelling tools.

Adoption of a modern energy planning process based on quantitative analysis empowers the country to anticipate potential challenges, to develop proactive energy policies to address them and to achieve their policy goals. While it is natural for every country to be at a different stage of energy planning, all governments should be demonstrating the political will to either establish a modern energy policy planning process or strengthen its current one and the related capacities.