Politics and Economics of International Energy from Coursera

Energy issues have always been important in international relations, but in recent years may have become even more important than in the past due to the widespread awareness of existing limits to energy sources and negative climate impacts. The course discusses global trends in energy consumption and production, various available scenarios for potential developments in the coming decades, the availability of oil reserves and the evolution of the oil industry. It then discusses natural gas and highlights the differences between oil and gas. It will also discuss renewable energy sources, nuclear energy and EU energy policy.

The course aims at providing students whose main interest is in international relations a background on energy resources, technology and economic realities to allow them to correctly interpret the political impact of current developments. It also aims at providing students, who already have a technical background in energy science or engineering, with the broad global view of energy issues that will allow them to better understand the social, economic and political impact of their technical knowledge.

ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR :

Giacomo Luciani

Scientific Advisor for the Master in International Energy at the Paris School of International Affairs (PSIA) Sciences Po, Giacomo Luciani is also Adjunct Professor at the Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies, Geneva and Director of the Executive Master in International Oil and Gas Leadership. For the period 2010-13 he was appointed Princeton University Global Scholar, attached to the Woodrow Wilson School and the Department of Near Eastern Studies. His research focuses on the political economy of the Middle East and North Africa and on global energy issues.

RECOMMENDED BACKGROUND :

The course requires no special scientific, mathematical or economic background; all key concepts are clearly and elementarily explained. It is expected that it will be of interest to undergraduate and graduate students in schools where an equivalent course is not offered (this being the case for the vast majority of schools).

USPC

Sorbonne Paris Cité

Supported by Université Sorbonne Paris Cité

IDEX

Investissements d'Avenir

Funded by Investissements d'Avenir - 'ANR.

Info :

Course content : Licence Creative Commons BY NC SA

What's inside

Syllabus

Week #1 : Introduction to global energy trends and scenarios

This module presents the Introduction to global energy consumption, Energy scenarios, Energy transition and poverty

Week #2 : Policies for decarbonisation

Week #3 : Renewable energy sources

This module presents the Introduction to renewable energy, Types of renewable energy, Renewable energy integration, Energy efficiency

Week #4 : Oil production, reserves and ressources

This module presents the Introduction to oil formation and exploration, Oil extraction methods, Environmental management in oil production

Week #5 : The economics and geopolitics of natural gas

This module presents the Introduction to natural gas, The international gas market, New gas developments

Week #6 : Nuclear Energy

This module presents the Introduction to Nuclear Energy, Nuclear Energy for electricity generation, Safety of Nuclear Energy

Week #7 : Security of supply and demand

Week #8 : Energy and development

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Explores energy issues that have become increasingly important in international relations

Taught by Giacomo Luciani, who is recognized for their work in international energy

Supported by Université Sorbonne Paris Cité and Funded by Investissements d'Avenir - 'ANR

Examines energy from a global perspective, including consumption, production, and scenarios for the future

Develops knowledge of oil and gas, including their economics and geopolitics

Explores renewable energy sources and their integration into the energy mix

Reviews summary

Energy politics and economics

Learners say this course is largely positive, well organized, and packed with up-to-date, informative content on international energy sources, including lectures, interviews, and quizzes. Giacomo Luciani and his expert guests cover the basics of energy and its political, economic, and geopolitical implications in a clear, engaging manner. Students appreciate the practical examples and discussions of energy transition, decarbonization, and renewable energy.

Professor Luciani presents complex topics with clarity and enthusiasm

"The course is great, I wish there would be a big project in the end of it. However, after every week (there're 8) you will get one test which include 10 questions. After all 8 weeks you get an online-certificate, which you can upload on your computer. I like the professor who gave that lectures!"

"Excellent overview of the different building blocks of the energy transition and their ranges of global impacts on the society. It would be great top update the materials, especially taking into account the impact of the pandemic on the global ( short term) economical trends."

"As this course provides technical, natural, political, and environmental details about energy, I can say that it is fulfilling for those who desire to learn the world of energy. However, the course could have more detailed information or a section about the economics of energy."

In-depth and insightful lectures, interviews, and events

"The course is very fundamental in equipping one with the basic understanding of how energy works at the local and international level and what considerations have to be made by individuals, firms and countries in pursuing energy security while also keeping in mind environmental sustainability."

"Excellent course all around explaining all aspects of the energy situation. Separates truths and myths that both sides of the argument makes. Gives one a great idea of whats real, whats likely to happen, unlikely to happen and impossible to happen (at least given current technology and know how). Loved it!"

"I thoroughly enjoyed this course. One of the best course to completely understand the energy market scenario. What surprised me the most was, even though I am learning 3 years after the course was shot, everything sir said in the video still makes sense."

The course can be challenging at times

"Certaines données ne sont plus à jour et la partie "politics" a été un peu survendue mais c'est globalement intéressant et donne une bonne idée du monde de l'énergie "

"I recommend this course for Energy Engineers who wants know economic nad poitical aspects in addition to tecnical issues."

"Comprehensive learnings with having the knowledge of the international political energy movement framework, both for dispatchable and non-dispatchable energy sources. Please provide more relevant global business cases that relevant with political situations, in each region. Thank you very much for sharing the knowledge!"

Some data and links may be outdated

"While the course helps you with many basic concepts of energy technologies, the content is very outdated, especially in the current scenario of multiple wars, energy crisis, political and global instability. The course needs to be updated badly!"

"Given the fast evolution in the area of renewable the course is maybe a little outdated. However the dynamics behind political decisions never change. Here the course is superb. Only one note on week 3's test. May I suggest to review the questions? Looks like there are some for which multiple answers suit, depending and which lesson/ video you see"

"Very good course. I recommend it if you want a full introductory to all sources of energy.I came here because i wanted to learn more about solar and wind energy but i ended up liking more the classes about oil and gas (very fascinating) .Also i liked that at the end of each week the prof had interviews with professionals,this gives you a different view on the topics, less academic but more practical. Very good prof i liked him, good english and when he talks somehow you know that he knows,liked his energy."

Quizzes and assignments may not provide detailed feedback

"The course is very insightful but there are several videos where the subtitles are not readable so it's a bit difficult. But overall is very good"

"A good intro into global political aspects linked to the energy sector.Enjoyed the diverse topics covered and the scope of study. Exams were a good assessment tool too"

"Very good content about international energy, low content about geopolitics, this is not a critic, because i really like geopolitics and i was expecting more about this last matter and i really enjoyed the interview with Dr. Sara Vakhshouri, she is a good expert. Good Course!!"

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 Politics and Economics of International Energy with these activities:

Math Refresher

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Review essential math skills like Calculus and Statistics to enhance your comprehension of complex energy concepts.

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Review basic functions and algebra.
Practice differentiation and integration techniques.
Study probability and statistical analysis.

Introduction to Energy Concepts Tutorial

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Explore online tutorials to grasp the fundamentals of energy resources, production, and consumption.

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Watch videos on different energy sources.
Read articles on energy consumption patterns.

Book Review: Energy: Big Ideas

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Delve into the book 'Energy: Big Ideas' to broaden your understanding of global energy trends and challenges.

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Read and summarize key chapters.
Analyze the author's arguments and perspectives.

Four other activities

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Show all seven activities

Energy Data Analysis Discussion

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Engage in peer discussions to analyze real-world energy data and draw meaningful insights.

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Form small study groups.
Collect and analyze data from credible sources.
Discuss your findings and share perspectives.

Energy Policy Brief

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Research and write a policy brief on a specific energy-related issue, applying the knowledge gained in the course.

Browse courses on Energy Policy

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Choose a policy focus area.
Research and gather relevant data.
Analyze the data and develop recommendations.
Write and format the policy brief.

Contribute to Energy Data Collection Projects

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Contribute to open-source projects collecting and analyzing energy-related data, gaining practical experience and supporting the community.

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Identify relevant data collection projects.
Contribute to data collection or analysis efforts.

Energy Industry Trends Workshop

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Attend a workshop conducted by industry experts to gain insights into the latest developments and trends in the energy sector.

Browse courses on Oil and Gas Industry

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Research and identify relevant workshops.
Register and attend the workshop.

Career center

Learners who complete Politics and Economics of International Energy will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Energy Analyst

An Energy Analyst studies the production, distribution, and consumption of energy. They may also develop energy policies and advise governments and businesses. This course would be highly useful for an Energy Analyst because it provides a comprehensive overview of energy issues, including the political, economic, and environmental aspects of energy production and use.

See salaries and explore the career path for Energy Analyst

Petroleum Engineer

A Petroleum Engineer designs, builds, and maintains oil and gas wells. They may also work on environmental projects, such as oil spill cleanup and remediation. This course would be highly useful for a Petroleum Engineer because it provides a comprehensive overview of energy issues, including the technical, economic, and environmental aspects of oil and gas production and use.

See salaries and explore the career path for Petroleum Engineer

Professor

A Professor teaches and conducts research at a college or university. They may also specialize in a particular field, such as energy. This course would be highly useful for a Professor because it provides a comprehensive overview of energy issues, which would be essential for teaching and conducting research in this field.

See salaries and explore the career path for Professor

Economist

An Economist studies the production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services. They may also develop economic policies and advise governments and businesses. This course may be useful for an Economist because it provides a foundation in energy economics, which is essential for understanding the economic impact of energy production and use.

See salaries and explore the career path for Economist

Policy Analyst

A Policy Analyst studies public policy and makes recommendations to policymakers. They may also work on environmental policy, such as energy regulation and climate change mitigation. This course may be useful for a Policy Analyst because it provides a foundation in energy economics and policy, which is essential for understanding the policy aspects of energy production and use.

See salaries and explore the career path for Policy Analyst

Management Consultant

A Management Consultant advises businesses on how to improve their performance. They may also specialize in a particular industry, such as energy. This course may be useful for a Management Consultant because it provides a foundation in energy economics and policy, which is essential for understanding the business aspects of energy production and use.

See salaries and explore the career path for Management Consultant

Financial Analyst

A Financial Analyst studies the financial performance of companies and industries. They may also develop investment recommendations and advise clients on financial matters. This course may be useful for a Financial Analyst because it provides a foundation in energy economics, which is essential for understanding the financial impact of energy production and use.

See salaries and explore the career path for Financial Analyst

Geologist

A Geologist studies the Earth's physical structure and history. They may also work on environmental projects, such as oil and gas exploration and development. This course may be useful for a Geologist because it provides a foundation in energy production and use, which is essential for understanding the geological aspects of energy exploration and development.

See salaries and explore the career path for Geologist

Lawyer

A Lawyer advises clients on legal matters and represents them in court. They may also work on environmental law, such as energy regulation and climate change litigation. This course may be useful for a Lawyer because it provides a foundation in energy law and policy, which is essential for understanding the legal aspects of energy production and use.

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Electrical Engineer

An Electrical Engineer designs, builds, and maintains electrical systems, such as power plants, transmission lines, and electrical equipment. They may also work on renewable energy projects, such as solar and wind power. This course may be useful for an Electrical Engineer because it provides a foundation in energy production and use, which is essential for the design and operation of electrical systems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Electrical Engineer

Mechanical Engineer

A Mechanical Engineer designs, builds, and maintains mechanical systems, such as engines, turbines, and pumps. They may also work on renewable energy projects, such as solar and wind power. This course may be useful for a Mechanical Engineer because it provides a foundation in energy production and use, which is essential for the design and operation of mechanical systems.

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Environmental Engineer

An Environmental Engineer designs, builds, and maintains environmental systems, such as water treatment plants, air pollution control systems, and waste management facilities. They may also work on renewable energy projects, such as solar and wind power. This course may be useful for an Environmental Engineer because it provides a foundation in energy production and use, which is essential for the design and operation of environmental systems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Engineer

Civil Engineer

A Civil Engineer designs, builds, and maintains infrastructure, such as roads, bridges, and buildings. They may also work on environmental projects, such as water treatment and pollution control. This course may be useful for a Civil Engineer because it provides a foundation in energy production and use, which is essential for the design and construction of infrastructure.

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Chemical Engineer

A Chemical Engineer designs, builds, and operates chemical plants and other industrial facilities. They may also develop new chemical processes and products. This course may be useful for a Chemical Engineer because it provides a foundation in energy production and use, which is essential for the design and operation of chemical plants.

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Atmospheric Scientist

An Atmospheric Scientist studies the Earth's atmosphere and its interactions with other systems. They may also study the effects of human activities on the atmosphere. This course may be useful for an Atmospheric Scientist because it provides a broad overview of energy issues, including the environmental impact of energy production and use.

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