Index decomposition analysis (IDA) has been used to study energy use movements since the 1980s. Methods at that time consisted primarily of multiplying factors that ultimately yielded the aggregate quantity, such as energy use. IDA is a straightforward way for researchers to examine the individual impacts of economic intensity, economic structure, and other factors on energy consumption or greenhouse gas emissions. Other methods could take more complex approaches, such as analyzing the outputs of energy system models, to decompose aggregate quantities.

Principal Fellow- Oil & Gas
Walid works on modeling energy systems. He is developing or has developed the following components of the KAPSARC Energy Model…
Walid works on modeling energy systems. He is developing or has developed the following components of the KAPSARC Energy Model (KEM): electric power generation, oil refining, petrochemicals and fertilizers, cement production, and iron and steel. He is also working on a bottom-up residential electricity use framework that merges microeconomics with the physical laws governing electricity use.
Expertise
- Energy Systems Modeling
- Optimization
- Electricity Prices
- Energy Efficiency and the Interdisciplinary Connection Between Energy Economics and Engineering
Publications See all Walid Matar’s publications

Does integrating oil refining with petrochemicals provide long-term benefits for Saudi Arabia?
Index decomposition analysis (IDA) has been used to study energy use movements since the 1980s.…
25th March 2025
Alternative Fuels and Processes for Saudi Construction Materials Companies
Index decomposition analysis (IDA) has been used to study energy use movements since the 1980s.…
11th February 2025