Systems and Dynamics Models - Woody Biomass Companion Markets Model (WOODCOM)

Model description

1. Purpose of the model: The objective of this work is to analyze the dynamics of biomass resource distribution across multiple industries under different conditions. To this end, we developed a simulation model that projects the volume and price dynamics between the biomass resource base (supply) and different demand industries including intermediate processing (i.e., mobilization) and end-use markets (traditional, companion, and biofuels). This allows modeling of resource mobilization and price developments over time given varying levels of companion and biofuel market growth. The model is limited to the U.S. southeast, the nation’s primary supply shed for purpose grown softwood. It covers Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Eastern Texas, Virginia and West Virginia. The region boasts the vast majority of installed wood pelleting capacity and the highest annual production of wood pellet.

2. Methodology: Detailed description of the model can be found in our published article .

This model was built using the system dynamics modeling method.

3. Prerequisites: Users are required to download Powersim to run the model.

4. License type: This model has been licensed under Apache License 2.0. To learn more about the terms and conditions for use, reproduction, and distribution, please read the LICENSE.txt file available in the Model files section.

5. Funding source: This work was sponsored by the US Department of Energy (DOE) Bioenergy Technologies Office (BETO) and Vehicle Technologies Office (VTO) under the DOE Co-Optimization of Fuels and Engines Initiative. The authors gratefully acknowledge the support and direction of Alicia Lindauer at BETO, Kevin Stork at VTO, and the Co-Optima leadership team. Valuable feedback, guidance, and/or data were also received from Jennifer Dunn (ANL); Mary Biddy, Daniel Inman, Emily Newes (NREL); Corey Peck, and Steve Peterson (Lexidyne).

Notice: This computer software was prepared by Battelle Energy Alliance, LLC, hereinafter the Contractor, under Contract No. AC07-05ID14517 with the United States (U. S.) Department of Energy (DOE). The Government is granted for itself and others acting on its behalf a nonexclusive, paid-up, irrevocable worldwide license in this data to reproduce, prepare derivative works, and perform publicly and display publicly, by or on behalf of the Government. There is a provision for the possible extension of the term of this license. Subsequent to that period or any extension granted, the Government is granted for itself and others acting on its behalf a nonexclusive, paid-up, irrevocable worldwide license in this data to reproduce, prepare derivative works, distribute copies to the public, perform publicly and display publicly, and to permit others to do so. The specific term of the license can be identified by inquiry made to Contractor or DOE. Neither the United States nor the United States Department of Energy, nor contractor makes any warranty, express or implied, or assumes any liability or responsibility for the use, accuracy, completeness, or usefulness or any information, apparatus, product, or process disclosed, or represents that its use would not infringe privately owned rights.

Author contact information:

Ruby Nguyen

Email: ruby.nguyen@inl.gov

Idaho National Laboratory

1955 Fremont Ave, Idaho Falls, ID 83415

Damon Hartley

Email: damon.hartley@inl.gov

Idaho National Laboratory,

1955 Fremont Ave, Idaho Falls, ID 83415

Model files:

https://inlbox.box.com/s/f33kcd4n9oi64dlhspmxzo9mtzgd0q1x

Link to GitHub