Clean Electricity Transition under Technology Cost and Efficiency Uncertainty for Distributed Energy Systems: A Multi-Stage Stochastic Programming Framework

The decarbonization of energy systems is an essential component of global climate mitigation, yet such transitions involve substantial capital requirements, ongoing technological progress, and the operational complexities of renewable integration. This study presents a dynamic strategic planning framework that applies multi-stage stochastic programming to guide clean electricity transitions for distributed energy systems. The model jointly addresses technology investment, storage operation, and grid interaction decisions while explicitly incorporating uncertainties in future technology cost trajectories and efficiency improvements. By enabling adaptive, stage-wise decision-making, the framework provides a structured approach for large electricity consumers seeking to achieve self-sufficient and sustainable energy systems. The approach is demonstrated through a case study of Middle East Technical University (Ankara, Turkey), which has committed to achieving carbon-free electricity by 2040. Through the integration of solar photovoltaics, wind power, and lithium-ion batteries, the model links long-term investment planning with operational-level dynamics by incorporating high-resolution demand and meteorological data. Our findings from the case study, sensitivity analyses, and comparisons with simplified models indicate that accounting for uncertainty and temporal detail is crucial for both the economic viability and operational feasibility of campus-scale clean electricity transitions.