In this study, an interactive decision support system (UREM-IDSS) has been developed based on an inexact
optimization model (UREM, University of Regina Energy Model) to aid decision makers in planning
energy management systems. Optimization modeling, scenario development, user interaction, policy
analysis and visual display are seamlessly integrated into the UREM-IDSS. Uncertainties in energy-related
parameters are effectively addressed through the interval linear programming (ILP) approach, improving
the robustness of the UREM-IDSS for real-world applications. Thus, it can be used as an efficient tool for
analyzing and visualizing impacts of energy and environmental policies, regional/community sustainable
development strategies, emission reduction measures and climate change in an interactive, flexible and
dynamic context. The Region of Waterloo has been selected to demonstrate the applicability and capability
of the UREM-IDSS. A variety of scenarios (including a reference case) have been identified based on
different energy management policies and sustainable development strategies for in-depth analysis of
interactions existing among energy, socio-economy, and environment in the Region. Useful solutions
for the planning of energy management systems have been generated, reflecting complex tradeoffs
among energy-related, environmental and economic considerations. Results indicate that the UREM-IDSS
can be successfully used for evaluating and analyzing not only the effects of an individual policy scenario,
but also the variations between different scenarios compared with a reference case. Also, the UREM-IDSS
can help tackle dynamic and interactive characteristics of the energy management system in the Region
of Waterloo, and can address issues concerning cost-effective allocation of energy resources and services.
Thus, it can be used by decision makers as an effective technique in examining and visualizing impacts of
energy and environmental policies, regional/community development strategies, emission reduction
measures, and climate change within an integrated and dynamic framework.