Default to global configuration?

[fneum]

Given that PyPSA-Earth now uses powerplantmatching extensively, would it make sense to extend the configuration to global scope?

[FabianHofmann]

We can do that. However, I am not sure how well the database is covering other countries. @davide-f what do you think?

[davide-f]

I think that it would make much sense!
A validation for this purpose is not needed and will be done naturally with pypsa-earth and alike.
I'm personally on favor of making ppl earth-scope.
I've run pypsa-earth on all countries with a selection of datasources and I experienced no issues.
However, by going global with other datasets some issues may appear, but I think it would improve the package :)

The only delicate thing is the size of the object.
Whenever the csv is changed, it is changed as a binary which implies a large memory is saved for that.
I see the csv size as the only limitation. Could be worth testing its size at earth scale and decide how to proceed.
If it is small (up to really few MBs) that may be acceptable but otherwise it starts to be challenging.

[fneum]

Also useful to include Ukraine and Moldova powerplants by default in PyPSA-Eur.