PNNL

Abstract

This paper describes GCAM v5.1, an open source model that represents the linkages between energy, water, land, climate, and economic systems. GCAM has evolved over time to answer science questions like: how might changes in population, income, or technology cost alter crop production, energy demand, or water withdrawals? Or, how do changes in one region’s demand for energy affect energy, water, and land in other regions? GCAM is a market equilibrium model, is global in scope, and operates from 1990 to 2100 in five-year time steps. This paper describes the model, including its assumptions, inputs, and outputs. We then use eleven scenarios, varying socioeconomic and climate policy assumptions, to illustrate the potential results from the model. These scenarios result in a wide range of potential future energy, water, and land uses. We compare the results from GCAM v5.1 to historical data and to other future scenarios. Finally, we provide information on how to obtain the model.