Global Energy and Climate Policy

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/globalenergyandclimatepolicy

Introduction

### Course Review: Global Energy and Climate Policy on Coursera In an era marked by urgent climate concerns and the complex interplay of global energy needs, the course “Global Energy and Climate Policy” on Coursera emerges as a timely and essential offering. This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the intricate world of energy policy and climate change, equipping learners with both theoretical insights and practical frameworks to navigate this pressing societal challenge. #### Course Overview The course is designed to unravel the complexities of how energy and climate policies intersect, especially as energy markets expand beyond national borders. It acknowledges the multifaceted urgency for countries to adapt to climate change while transitioning to low-carbon energy systems. It serves not only as an academic pursuit but also as a practical guide for policymakers, industry professionals, and students interested in understanding global trends and local implications of energy governance. #### Syllabus Breakdown 1. **The Future of Fossil Fuels in a Carbon-Constrained World** This introductory week sets the stage by defining a carbon-constrained world and exploring its implications on the future of fossil fuels. It delves into technologies like carbon capture and storage (CCS) while discussing contrasting perspectives from developed and developing nations regarding energy systems' decarbonization. 2. **The Nuclear Option: The Solution to the Energy/Climate Conundrum?** Here, learners examine the controversial role of nuclear energy in addressing climate change. This module encourages critical thinking about the economic, environmental, and political narratives surrounding nuclear power as a viable component of the global energy mix. 3. **Up-scaling Renewable Energy: Policy Incentives** This week focuses on the transition to renewable energy sources, specifically wind and solar. It outlines the array of fiscal tools and policy incentives that governments can deploy to stimulate renewable energy adoption, highlighting successful global case studies that showcase innovative policies in action. 4. **Energy and Climate Governance: Two Become One?** This week draws attention to the convergence of energy and climate governance. It posits that while energy manifests through state-centric policies, climate change requires unified global governance. The discussions also extend to the far-reaching impacts of fossil fuel emissions and the collaborative responsibility needed to address them. 5. **Climate Change and Energy Security: Resolving a Tri-lemma** A critical examination of energy security leads the discourse this week, where students navigate the interconnectedness of energy strategies and climate goals. The course challenges attendees to grapple with various interpretations of energy security and the consequent implications for coherent climate strategies. 6. **What Next for Energy Policy with the Paris Agreement on Climate Change? (Optional)** In this optional exercise, learners are invited to synthesize their understanding in the context of the Paris Agreement. It poses an engaging opportunity to reflect on how global climate accords can reshape national energy policies and practices, encouraging a proactive approach to policy adaptation. #### Recommendations The “Global Energy and Climate Policy” course is highly recommended for anyone passionate about environmental issues, energy management, or public policy. Whether you are a student, professional, or stakeholder in energy sectors, this course provides valuable insights into the evolving dynamics of energy governance and climate action. **Pros:** - **Comprehensive Curriculum:** The course structure covers a wide array of critical topics, ensuring learners leave with a well-rounded understanding. - **Global Perspective:** It invites participants to consider not just local implications, but the interconnectedness of energy policies across the globe. - **Expert Insights:** Learners benefit from the expertise of seasoned professionals in the field, providing practical knowledge that extends beyond theoretical concepts. **Cons:** - **Demanding Content:** The complexity of the subjects may require a fair amount of prior knowledge or engagement with current events in energy policy and climate change. - **Self-paced Learning:** While the course is flexible, self-motivation is necessary, which may pose a challenge for some learners. In conclusion, “Global Energy and Climate Policy” is an indispensable resource for anyone seeking to understand and influence the energy landscape in the fight against climate change. The thoughtful blend of theory, policy analysis, and case studies makes this an enriching educational experience that is relevant in today's global discourse on sustainability. Enroll today to equip yourself with the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute meaningfully to this crucial field.

Syllabus

The future of fossil fuels in a carbon-constrained world

This week introduces the concept of a carbon-constrained world, considering how it links to energy policies and the future of fossil fuels. It will also discuss the role of technologies such as carbon capture and storage (CCS) and how different stakeholders, in developed and developing countries, perceive the need to decarbonize energy systems.

This week introduces the competing cases on economic, environmental and political aspects of nuclear power as part of the global energy mix and its role in meeting both energy security and climate change mitigation needs.

This week discusses the growing role of renewable energy sources such as wind and solar. It introduces the range of fiscal and other policy tools that governments’ use to promote an increase in the production and consumption of renewable energy.

This week addresses how energy and climate governance are becoming more inter-related. Climate change is a global collective action problem whereas energy is more often associated with state based priorities. However, emissions from fossil fuel energy have global impacts and pose a challenge to the international community at-large.

This week provides an introduction to the various conceptualisations of energy security and considers the implications these can have on energy and climate change strategies.

For the week 6 optional exercise, you may draw upon your learning from previous weeks to understand how climate change is changing the focus of energy policy. Specifically, you are asked to consider this in light of the 2015 Paris Agreement on climate change.