Unleashing the Power of Sankey Charts: Visualizing Energy Flows

Sankey charts are a powerful visualization tool for understanding energy flows in a system. They are particularly useful in showing the interconnections between different parts of an energy system and the quantities of energy flowing between them. In this article, we will explore the basics of Sankey chart creation, as well as some common applications of these charts in energy analysis.

What are Sankey Charts?

Sankey charts are graphical representations of energy flows in a system. They are named after English engineer and statistician William Sankey, who developed the chart in the early 20th century. Sankey charts can be used to show the flow of energy between different interacting components of a system, such as the production and consumption of energy over time, or the movement of energy from one location to another.

Sankey charts consist of a central flow line, which represents the total energy flow in the system, surrounded by several smaller flow lines that represent the different energy flows between the system’s components. The flow lines are typically color-coded and labeled with the corresponding energy units, such as kWh or GJ. The chart can also include annotations and other visual elements that provide additional context and clarity.

How to Create a Sankey Chart

Sankey charts can be created using various software tools, such as Microsoft Excel, or specialized energy analysis software such as EnergyPlus or IDES. The general process of creating a Sankey chart involves the following steps:

1. Collect and organize the data: Collect the relevant energy flow data, such as energy production, consumption, or movement quantities, from various sources such as energy bills, surveys, or government reports. Organize the data in a spreadsheet or database, with each data point listed in a separate row or column.
2. Determine the energy flow network: Identify the different entities and components in the energy system, such as power plants, transmission lines, or consumer households, that contribute to the energy flow. Create a flow network diagram that shows the energy flows between these entities, using flow lines and arrows to indicate the direction and magnitude of the flows.
3. Plot the Sankey chart: Choose the appropriate software tool to create the Sankey chart, and input the energy flow data and flow network diagram into the tool. Customize the chart settings, such as line styles, colors, and annotations, to create a visually appealing and informative chart.

Applications of Sankey Charts in Energy Analysis

Sankey charts are widely used in energy analysis and planning, particularly in the analysis of energy efficiency and greenhouse gas emissions. Some common applications of Sankey charts in energy analysis include:

1. Energy efficiency analysis: Sankey charts can be used to visualize the flow of energy through an energy system, and identify areas of potential energy savings. For example, a Sankey chart for a building can show the energy flows between different systems, such as heating, cooling, and lighting, and highlight areas where energy can be improved.
2. Greenhouse gas emissions analysis: Sankey charts can be used to display the greenhouse gas emissions associated with different energy flows in a system. This can help policy-makers and stakeholders to understand the environmental impacts of different energy production and consumption scenarios.
3. Energy system planning: Sankey charts can be used in the planning of energy systems to evaluate the efficiency and sustainability of different energy generation and distribution options. For example, a Sankey chart for a proposed energy storage project can show the flow of energy between different storage locations and help to identify the most efficient configuration.

Conclusion

Sankey charts are a valuable tool for understanding energy flows in a system. They are particularly useful in energy analysis and planning, and can be used to visualize the flow of energy, identify areas for improvement, and evaluate the environmental impacts of different energy options. By using Sankey charts, energy analysts and stakeholders can gain a deeper understanding of the complex energy systems they operate in, and make informed decisions that promote efficiency, sustainability, and

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