Fundamentals of Global Energy Business

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/energy-business

Introduction

### Course Review: Fundamentals of Global Energy Business on Coursera In an era marked by rapid advancements in technology, shifts in geopolitical landscapes, and an increasing urgency to address climate change, understanding the dynamics of the global energy market is essential. The "Fundamentals of Global Energy Business" course on Coursera provides a comprehensive and insightful exploration into the complex world of energy—covering everything from demand and supply factors to the strategic considerations that drive decision-making in this critical sector. #### Overview The course is designed for anyone interested in gaining foundational knowledge about the global energy landscape, including business leaders, policymakers, and students. It is perfect for those looking to deepen their understanding of energy's role in the economy and society, as well as those aspiring to navigate the intricate relationships between energy stakeholders. #### Syllabus Breakdown **1. Demand for Energy** The course kicks off with an examination of energy as a basic human need and a critical factor for development. It raises pertinent questions about how technological innovations impact our energy demands. This section effectively delves into the determinants of energy consumption and its geographical distribution, laying a solid foundation for subsequent topics. **2. Energy Supplies and Market Allocations** Moving beyond demand, the course addresses the diverse primary energy resources available and the complexities involved in their access. This segment highlights the interplay of technology, skills, and political factors, giving learners a realistic view of the energy supply chain. **3. Key Capabilities for Energy Business - Fossil Fuels** The lectures on fossil fuels cover essential commercial and technological aspects that influence the accessibility and utilization of traditional energy sources such as coal, oil, and natural gas. This section excels in explaining the current trends and challenges that the fossil fuel industry faces, making it extremely relevant. **4. Key Capabilities for Energy Business - Alternative Resources** In contrast, this segment shifts the focus to unconventional energy resources, encompassing nuclear energy and various renewable sources. It provides a balanced perspective on the future of energy and the transition toward sustainable alternatives. **5. Stakeholders and Political Considerations in the Energy Business** Understanding the stakeholders involved in the energy sector is crucial for any aspiring leader. This section discusses the intricate web of relationships between energy businesses and their effects on communities and international policies. It encourages learners to appreciate the political implications of energy decisions, which is often an overlooked but critical aspect of energy business. **6. Strategic Analysis of Energy Business Opportunities** Finally, the course introduces useful frameworks for conducting strategic analysis related to energy businesses. This finale equips participants with practical tools to evaluate various economic and political environments, preparing them for real-world challenges. #### Recommendation The "Fundamentals of Global Energy Business" course comes highly recommended for anyone aiming to enter the energy sector or expand their knowledge on the subject. Its structured approach, combining theoretical knowledge with practical applications, is ideal for students and professionals alike. The instructors present complex ideas clearly and engagingly, ensuring that the content is accessible to those with varying degrees of prior knowledge. Additionally, the inclusion of case studies and current events makes the course highly relevant to today's energy landscape. In conclusion, if you're looking to gain a robust understanding of energy markets, business strategies, and the socio-political factors that influence the global energy landscape, this Coursera course is an excellent choice. It promises not just academic knowledge but practical insights that will enhance your ability to operate effectively in this vital industry.

Syllabus

Demand for Energy

Energy is the capacity to do work. In this most essential sense, energy is a basic human need. We will consider how technological innovations have increased the ability of mankind to do work, but only by increasing our demand for various sources of energy. We will examine the determinants of demand for primary energy resources as well as the distribution of demand around the globe.

A broad range of primary resources are used to satisfy our need for energy. Accessing these resources depends on many factors, including available technologies and skills, and a number of political factors. We will address these factors as well as issues and trends in energy supply.

A range of technological and commercial factors determine accessibility and utilization of conventional energy resources. These lectures review considerations essential to the development of various fossil fuel sources of energy, including coal, oil, gas, and shale gas.

A range of technological and commercial factors determine accessibility and utilization of unconventional energy resources. These lectures review considerations essential to the development of alternative sources of energy, including nuclear and various renewable resources.

Energy enterprises engage in complex activities with far-reaching consequences. As a result, these activities often motivate to action a diverse set of stakeholders. We will examine the systemic nature of energy businesses and how their activities inevitably necessitate political engagement.

Frameworks for strategic analysis are useful for organizing the broad set of considerations necessary to achieve energy business objectives. These lectures introduce several rudimentary tools for strategic analysis and make use of those tools to evaluate the economic, commercial, and political environment of energy.