Setting Up Optimization

This guide provides a step-by-step procedure for configuring optimization modeling within the Low Emissions Analysis Platform (LEAP), specifically focusing on the integration of the NEMO framework and various solvers to calculate optimal capacity expansion pathways.

• LEAP supports several solvers for optimization; GLPK, Cbc, and HIGHS are installed by default, while MOSEK is installed but requires a separate license key. Other solvers, such as CPLEX and GUROBI, must be purchased and installed independently of LEAP and NEMO.
• To enable optimization, users must select a Transformation module—typically for electricity generation—and set the 'Optimize' variable to 'Yes' (or a specific solver like 'Yes(CBC)') to utilize NEMO and the fastest available solver. Optimization is not available for Current Accounts.
• Optimization requires more comprehensive data than basic simulation and accounting, specifically requiring process efficiencies, availability rates, unit capital costs, fixed and variable operating & maintenance costs, and fuel costs. If pollution damage costs are considered, emission factors and pollutant externality values must also be specified.
• Certain modeling capabilities are exclusive to the optimization methodology, including energy storage processes—which require data on Starting Charge, Minimum Charge, and Full Load Hours—and the optional modeling of transmission networks and pipelines in multi-region models.
• Correct configuration of the General Settings is required for optimization to function, specifically ensuring the Discount Rate is positive and the cost annualization method is set to 'Capital Recovery Factor'.

APA

Stockholm Environment Institute (n.d.). Setting Up Optimization. https://leap.sei.org/help24/Optimization/Setting_Up_Optimization_in_LEAP.htm

Chicago

Stockholm Environment Institute. Setting Up Optimization. n.d. https://leap.sei.org/help24/Optimization/Setting_Up_Optimization_in_LEAP.htm.

Wikipedia

{{cite report |author=Stockholm Environment Institute |title=Setting Up Optimization |url=https://leap.sei.org/help24/Optimization/Setting_Up_Optimization_in_LEAP.htm |access-date=17 August 2026 |via=Climate Insights Directory}}

BibTeX

@techreport{stockholmenvironmentinstitutendsetting, author = {{Stockholm Environment Institute}}, title = {{Setting Up Optimization}}, institution = {Stockholm Environment Institute}, url = {https://leap.sei.org/help24/Optimization/Setting_Up_Optimization_in_LEAP.htm}, urldate = {2026-08-17}, note = {Indexed by Climate Insights Directory} }