How to include justice in energy modeling? A review of indicators and methods

The energy transition is mostly considered from a techno-economic perspective in the planning process, in which environmental and societal concerns are often neglected. Instead of risking an uneven distribution of goods and bads, which can raise concerns about justice, these impacts should be considered upfront in energy models. Performing a structured literature review, this paper presents current research at the intersection of energy modeling and justice. We illustrate how Energy System Models, Integrated Assessment Models, Economic Modeling Frameworks, Agent-Based Models, Formulaic Calculations as well as Correlations and Regressions utilize different methods to include justice. Examples of these methods are provided, and various indicator groups are highlighted. Methods are integrated into the model steps of input, processing and output, and among others range from scenario building, parameterization, and an adaptation of the objective function to the derivation of inequality factors. The indicators address issues of affordability and energy poverty, societal costs and benefits, health and environment, ownership, income and wealth, employment, social acceptance, legislative recognition as well as availability and energy access. Our findings offer energy modelers a practical entry point into the complex subject of justice in energy. At the same time, it illustrates model capabilities to social scientists to facilitate interdisciplinary research. To enable energy researchers to find indicators and methods to investigate just measures in their specific fields, we provide a web application containing the reviewed papers, methods, and indicators. • Energy modeling can identify, predict, and mitigate injustices. • Energy models address justice through a multitude of methods and indicators. • Interconnecting concepts with real-world applications increases energy policy relevance. • The paper provides a toolkit to address justice in energy modeling.