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Rudi Hakvoort and Laurens de Vries

Energy markets are governed by the laws of economics. Generators and consumers interact to shape the transactions in the energy markets, and thus the energy system. But how does the 'invisible hand' of economics show up in practice? What determines electricity prices and why are they always changing? Why is it so difficult to encourage investment in electricity generation?

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Energy markets are governed by the laws of economics. Generators and consumers interact to shape the transactions in the energy markets, and thus the energy system. But how does the 'invisible hand' of economics show up in practice? What determines electricity prices and why are they always changing? Why is it so difficult to encourage investment in electricity generation?

This course will help you understand the functioning of energy markets as the necessary first step to promotion of the energy transition. By using the European electricity market as an example, you will obtain a deeper understanding of its principles and effectiveness.

You will investigate four main areas:

  • the basics of the energy markets;
  • the operation and design of those markets;
  • how policy makers can promote investment in electricity generation;
  • how the electricity network operates and how network tariffs are determined.

Insightful videos will explain the driving factors behind energy markets. Interactive assessments will demonstrate how the merit order is chosen for different types of markets and how this determines the market price. Live practice sessions will take you through the auctions and marketplaces where electricity trading takes place today, giving you invaluable knowledge on the inner workings of these markets and the effects of network capacity.

Whether you are interested in learning about how the merit order in energy markets works or how the European electricity market is organized; or interested in understanding the economics behind electricity consumption, examining the economic problems of incorporating renewable energy sources into the current system; or simply want to become informed about what makes the energy markets tick -this is the course for you.

This course will address all of these questions and more. Upon completion of the course, you will be able to take on questions, problems or challenges thrown at you about the nature of energy markets and their operation.

This course is the first course in the program: The Economics of the Energy Transition. This program aims to help strategic decision makers, economists, policy advisors and regulators as well as practicing and future engineers to obtain a deeper understanding of the topic. Its aim is to increase your understanding of energy markets, the current European electricity market and to be able to promote the investments necessary for achieving the energy transition.

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • How energy markets operate, including regulation and market organization;
  • To identify different market models and understand what affects the operation of the electricity sector;
  • Why policy makers need to incentivize investment and how it can be done;
  • How the electricity network operates and how network tariffs are determined.

Syllabus

Week 5: Case review
Week 1: Key elements of energy marketsAn introduction to the basics of energy markets, the main players and how market organization, regulation and liberalization affect the energy market.
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Week 2: Different types of market models and what effects the energy marketThe different models for energy market structure are described and the importance of time and geographical dependence as they affect energy markets.
Week 3: The economics of generation investment and capacity mechanismsAn introduction to the problems that occur with investment in energy generation and potential solutions in both the current energy system and renewable-energy-based systems.
Week 4: Energy Networks and congestion managementThe energy network and how it recovers its costs in the EU as well as looking at congestion management across borders.

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Develops an understanding of energy market operation and their governing principles
Introduces the concept of the merit order and its role in determining market price
Provides practical knowledge through live practice sessions on electricity trading
Explores various types of market models and their impact on the energy sector
Examines the economics of investment in energy generation and potential solutions for current and renewable energy systems
Suitable for learners seeking to understand the economic aspects of energy consumption and renewable energy integration

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Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Energy Markets of Today with these activities:
Compile Workbook Information
Complete the exercises and review the materials within the workbooks.
Show steps
  • Download workbooks
  • Complete assessment 1
  • Complete assessment 2 and workbook review
Practice Assessments
Complete the drills to practice and refine your understanding of the market fundamentals.
Show steps
  • Complete practice drills
  • Review solutions and explanations
Market Analysis Summary
Produce a summary of the major market forces affecting the energy market.
Show steps
  • Research market forces
  • Analyze data and trends
  • Write a summary
Show all three activities

Career center

Learners who complete Energy Markets of Today will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Energy Analyst
An Energy Analyst role includes modeling, forecasting, and analyzing energy markets, trends, and policies. They apply their knowledge of the energy industry, economics, and econometrics to provide insights and recommendations for various stakeholders. The course, Energy Markets of Today, provides a solid foundation for those seeking this role. It helps build a strong understanding of the functioning of energy markets, including regulation, market organization, and the factors that affect their operation.
Energy Economist
Energy Economists analyze and interpret data, trends, and policies related to energy markets. They use econometric and statistical techniques to forecast energy prices, demand, supply, and consumption. The course, Energy Markets of Today, provides a thorough understanding of the economics of energy markets, including investment incentives, capacity mechanisms, and the role of renewable energy. This knowledge is crucial for success in this role.
Energy Consultant
Energy Consultants provide advisory and consulting services to clients in the energy industry, including governments, utilities, and energy companies. They help clients develop and implement strategies for energy efficiency, demand management, and renewable energy integration. The course, Energy Markets of Today, equips individuals with a comprehensive understanding of energy markets, enabling them to provide informed advice and solutions to clients.
Energy Policy Analyst
Energy Policy Analysts research, analyze, and develop energy policies and regulations. They provide expert advice to policymakers and stakeholders on energy-related issues, including market design, environmental impacts, and energy security. The course, Energy Markets of Today, offers a deep understanding of the functioning and regulation of energy markets, as well as the challenges and opportunities related to the energy transition.
Power System Engineer
Power System Engineers design, analyze, and operate electrical power systems. They ensure the reliability, efficiency, and stability of power generation, transmission, and distribution networks. The course, Energy Markets of Today, provides a comprehensive overview of the electricity network, its operation, and the economic principles that drive its development and management. This knowledge is invaluable for Power System Engineers seeking to optimize system performance and integrate renewable energy sources.
Energy Market Analyst
Energy Market Analysts monitor and analyze real-time energy market data, including prices, supply, and demand. They provide timely insights and forecasts to traders, investors, and other stakeholders. The course, Energy Markets of Today, provides a deep understanding of the operation and design of energy markets, empowering individuals to effectively track and analyze market dynamics.
Energy Trader
Energy Traders buy and sell energy commodities, such as electricity, natural gas, and oil, in wholesale markets. They manage risk and optimize trading strategies to maximize profits for their firms. The course, Energy Markets of Today, provides a comprehensive understanding of energy market fundamentals, price formation, and trading practices, equipping individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in this dynamic field.
Energy Investment Analyst
Energy Investment Analysts assess the financial viability and risk-return profiles of energy projects, including renewable energy, oil and gas exploration, and energy infrastructure. They provide recommendations to investors and financial institutions on investment decisions. The course, Energy Markets of Today, provides a solid foundation in the economics of electricity generation investment, capacity mechanisms, and the financial aspects of energy projects.
Energy Regulatory Analyst
Energy Regulatory Analysts review and analyze proposed energy regulations and policies to assess their potential impact on the energy industry and consumers. They provide expert advice to regulatory bodies and policymakers. The course, Energy Markets of Today, offers a deep understanding of the regulatory framework governing energy markets, the principles of market design, and the economic implications of regulatory decisions.
Energy Market Modeler
Energy Market Modelers develop and apply mathematical and computational models to simulate and forecast energy markets. They analyze the impact of various factors, such as policy changes, technological advancements, and economic conditions, on market outcomes. The course, Energy Markets of Today, provides a strong foundation in the principles and techniques of energy market modeling, enabling individuals to build and use models to support decision-making.
Energy Project Manager
Energy Project Managers oversee the planning, execution, and closing of energy projects, including renewable energy installations, energy efficiency upgrades, and grid infrastructure developments. They ensure project success by managing budgets, timelines, and stakeholder relationships. The course, Energy Markets of Today, provides a comprehensive overview of the energy industry, including market fundamentals, project economics, and the regulatory environment, equipping individuals with the knowledge to effectively lead and manage energy projects.

Reading list

We've selected six books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Energy Markets of Today.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of the economic principles that underpin the design of electricity markets. It covers topics such as market power, pricing, and investment, and provides a valuable reference for students and practitioners alike.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the economics of energy markets. It covers topics such as market structure, regulation, and pricing.
This textbook provides a broad overview of the field of energy economics. It covers topics such as energy demand, supply, and policy.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the economic challenges associated with the transition to sustainable energy.
This concise book provides a comprehensive introduction to the principles of energy policy. It covers topics such as energy security, climate change, and renewable energy.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the challenges and opportunities facing the global energy industry. It covers topics such as climate change, renewable energy, and energy security.

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