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Global Energy System in Transition

Global Energy System in Transition

Numerous factors influence the global energy system, which currently experiences intensive transformation. The course focuses on an in-depth review and analysis of conditions and driving forces behind the transformation of the intertwined global energy system. The course treats the function of energy systems with a strong focus on the relationship between the structure of the technical systems and their respective economical boundary conditions (pricing, market, etc.), as well as the function and transformation of energy markets.

The course consists of five modules with an in-depth review and analysis of the structure, functions and driving forces of the global energy system, as well as its transformation from technical, economic, political and ecological perspectives. It also includes an illustrative example of the development of biogas sector as a part of the global energy system transformation.

The course design and structure aim to give course participants the best possible conditions for active learning. It is based on series of video lectures supplemented by other visual and text materials, seminar activities, and individual project activity where students can apply new knowledge. The final version of the project is also the course examination.

The course is aimed for students interested in how energy system functions, what are its economic, political, climatological and technical conditions and boundaries, what is the difference in between transformation and transition, and also how to facilitate sustainable transition of the global energy system.

Learning outcomes

Upon successful completion of the course, the learner is expected to be able to:

Analyze the structure and function of the global energy system regarding energy type, industrial and political structure
Discuss the main driving forces for the global energy system, compare technical and economic conditions and relationships between different energy types/energy markets
Interpret the technical, institutional and political mechanisms of the transformation of the energy system
Execute critical analysis of conditions and processes regarding future shifts in technology at company and policy level, related to the transformation of energy markets.

Course structure

The global energy system: structure and function

What is the global energy system? What elements does it consist of? What does really happen with the global energy system? All these questions will be discuss in this module. We will also present classification and availability of energy resources, their efficiency and sufficiency.

The global energy system: driving forces and aspects of change

In this module, we will look at the main driving forces and barriers for the global energy system. Exponential grows of energy demand, high speed changes, institutional tipping points are the main factors characterizing the global energy system at present.

The global energy system transformation

The module focuses on processes of change in the global energy system from the theoretical perspective (co-evolution, transformation and transition), as well as analysis factors, which lay behind: technological advances, energy innovations, geopolitics, policies, social engagement and acceptance.

Empirical cases: Case 1 - biogas sector

Biogas production is one of the rapid developing energy technology. We will in this module look at the main processes of biogas generation and utilization, discuss the potential of biogas production and future biogas trends.

Case study (home exam)

The final module of the course is introducing the case study task with complementary activities, which result in a home exam (final course submission).