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In this paper, we present a novel open-source electricity systems optimization tool--the Holistic Optimization Program for Electricity (HOPE)--to assess emerging generation technology, inform policy design, and support planning. With a highly transparent, interpretable and compact model design, HOPE easily allows user access and modification, serving its main goal to benefit users beyond engineer communities and facilitate collaboration across the science-policy boundary. By activating different modes, the current version of HOPE (v1.0) offers flexibility in serving as either a Generation and Transmission Expansion Planning tool (GTEP) or a Production Cost Modelling tool (PCM). It includes modelling features such as long-term resource investments, short-term system operations, and a detailed representation of policies across various levels of regulated institutions. This paper outlines the building blocks of the model and its software structure. Case study results from using HOPE for the state of Maryland as well as Pennsylvania-New Jersey-Maryland (PJM) footprint are also provided.