From 0D to 1D spatial models using OCMat

Abstract

We show that the standard class of optimal control models in OCMat can be used to analyze 1D spatial distributed systems. This approach is an intermediate step on the way to the FEM discretization approach presented in Grass and Uecker (2015). Therefore, the spatial distributed model is transformed into a standard model by a finite difference discretization. This (high dimensional) standard model is then analyzed using OCMAT. As an example we apply this method to the spatial distributed shallow lake model formulated in Brock and Xepapadeas (2008). The results are then compared with those of the FEM discretization in GRass and Uecker (2015)