Political Economy of Energy Transition Training Course

Political Economy of Energy Transition Training Course

Introduction

The global energy transition is a complex, multifaceted phenomenon driven by climate change imperatives and rapid technological innovation. It's not just a technical shift from fossil fuels to renewables; it's a fundamental reordering of global political and economic systems. This course delves into the intricate web of power, policy, and profit that shapes the transition, analyzing how diverse actors from nation-states and multinational corporations to local communities and civil society organizations—navigate its challenges and opportunities. We will explore the geopolitical implications of shifting energy dependencies, the economic dynamics of new energy markets, and the governance challenges of creating a just and equitable transition.

Political Economy of Energy Transition Training Course is designed to equip professionals with the analytical tools and strategic foresight needed to lead in a low-carbon future. We move beyond simplistic narratives to examine the political battles over resources, the financial risks of stranded assets, and the societal impacts on labor and communities. By understanding the interdependencies between energy, security, and development, participants will be able to formulate effective policies, mitigate risks, and capitalize on the immense potential of the green economy. The course leverages a political economy framework to dissect the drivers and barriers to change, offering a comprehensive and nuanced perspective on this defining issue of our time.

Course Duration

5 days

Course Objectives

Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:

1. Analyze the geopolitical shifts and power dynamics resulting from the decline of fossil fuels and the rise of renewable energy.
2. Evaluate the economic models and financial incentives driving clean energy investment.
3. Assess the policy frameworks and regulatory instruments essential for a managed and equitable transition.
4. Identify the political risks and security implications of critical mineral supply chains for batteries and other clean energy technologies.
5. Critically analyze the concept of energy justice and its role in a just and inclusive transition for communities.
6. Understand the role of technology and innovation in shaping future energy systems and policy.
7. Examine the social and labor impacts of decarbonization on traditional energy sectors and workforces.
8. Formulate strategic responses to challenges such as resource nationalism and energy security risks in the era of renewables.
9. Interpret the outcomes of major international climate negotiations (e.g., COPs) from a political economy perspective.
10. Assess the role of diverse actors governments, corporations, civil society, and international organizations in energy governance.
11. Evaluate the sustainability and economic viability of different energy transition pathways.
12. Develop an understanding of the macroeconomic effects of the green economy and carbon pricing.
13. Master the application of a political economy lens to real-world energy and climate policy challenges.

Organizational Benefits

• Organizations will gain the foresight to anticipate geopolitical risks and capitalize on emerging market opportunities in the low-carbon economy.
• Staff will be equipped to identify and mitigate risks associated with policy changes, regulatory uncertainty, and supply chain disruptions.
• Teams will be able to make data-driven decisions on investment, policy advocacy, and corporate strategy aligned with global energy trends.
• Companies can better understand the diverse interests of governments, civil society, and investors, leading to more effective and credible sustainability and corporate social responsibility initiatives.
• The course cultivates a high-value workforce with expertise in energy policy, climate governance, and sustainable finance.

Target Audience

• Government Officials and Policy Advisors
• Energy Sector Analysts and Consultants
• Diplomats and International Relations Experts
• Corporate Strategists and Sustainability Managers
• NGO Professionals in Climate and Development
• Financial Analysts and Investors
• Academics and Researchers
• Journalists and Communicators

Course Outline

Module 1: Foundations of the Political Economy of Energy

• Core Concepts: Defining energy systems, political economy, and energy transitions.
• Historical Context: The rise of the fossil fuel-based global order.
• Actors and Interests: Mapping key players and their roles (states, IOCs, OPECs, NGOs).
• The Energy-Security Nexus: How energy shapes international relations and conflict.
• Case Study: The geopolitical impact of shale gas revolution in the United States.

Module 2: The Drivers and Dynamics of Energy Transition

• Climate Imperatives: The role of global climate agreements (e.g., Paris Agreement) as a transition driver.
• Technological Innovation: Analyzing the cost reduction of renewables and energy storage.
• Economic Drivers: The economics of decarbonization and the concept of stranded assets.
• Political Will: Examining how domestic politics and public opinion influence policy.
• Case Study: Germany's Energiewende: A study in national energy policy and political commitment.

Module 3: Geopolitics of a Decarbonized World

• New Power Centers: The rise of countries dominating renewable technology and critical mineral supply chains.
• Resource Nationalism: The competition for and control of rare earth minerals.
• Energy Security 2.0: Shifting from fossil fuel pipelines to electricity grids and critical mineral supply.
• Climate Diplomacy: The role of international cooperation and competition in the transition.
• Case Study: China's dominance in the global solar panel and battery supply chains.

Module 4: The Economics of Transition: Markets and Finance

• Carbon Pricing: Examining carbon taxes, cap-and-trade systems, and their economic effects.
• Green Finance: The growth of green bonds, sustainable investment, and ESG criteria.
• Subsidies and Policy Support: Analyzing the role of government subsidies in accelerating or hindering the transition.
• Energy Market Restructuring: The impact of renewables on wholesale electricity markets.
• Case Study: The role of the European Union's Emissions Trading System (ETS) in driving industrial decarbonization.

Module 5: Governance and Policy Challenges

• Regulatory Frameworks: Designing effective policies for grid modernization and renewable integration.
• Policy Coherence: The challenge of aligning energy policy with trade, industrial, and social policies.
• The Role of States: From command-and-control to market-based governance models.
• Subnational Governance: The crucial role of cities and states in driving change.
• Case Study: California's climate policies and their influence on federal and global action.

Module 6: Just and Equitable Transition

• Energy Justice: Defining distributive, procedural, and recognition justice.
• Labor and Communities: The impact of coal phase-outs on workers and regional economies.
• Addressing Energy Poverty: Ensuring access to modern, affordable energy for all.
• Equity in Finance: The role of development banks in financing transitions in the Global South.
• Case Study: The closure of coal mines in Appalachia and efforts towards a just transition.

Module 7: Emerging Technologies and Their Political Economy

• Hydrogen Economy: The potential and political challenges of scaling up green hydrogen.
• Energy Storage: The geopolitics of battery manufacturing and rare earth minerals.
• Nuclear Power: The ongoing debate on nuclear's role in a low-carbon future.
• Carbon Capture: Analyzing the political and economic viability of CCS technologies.
• Case Study: The role of hydrogen in the transition of a major industrial economy like Germany or Japan.

Module 8: The Future of Energy: Scenarios and Foresight

• Scenario Planning: Developing long-term scenarios for the global energy system.
• Risks and Opportunities: Identifying future challenges and investment frontiers.
• The Role of Innovation: Examining the potential of disruptive technologies and business models.
• Strategic Foresight: Using a political economy lens to anticipate future trends.
• Case Study: The contrasting energy transition pathways of oil-producing nations versus renewable energy leaders.

Training Methodology

This course employs a participatory and hands-on approach to ensure practical learning, including:

• Interactive lectures and presentations.
• Group discussions and brainstorming sessions.
• Hands-on exercises using real-world datasets.
• Role-playing and scenario-based simulations.
• Analysis of case studies to bridge theory and practice.
• Peer-to-peer learning and networking.
• Expert-led Q&A sessions.
• Continuous feedback and personalized guidance.

Register as a group from 3 participants for a Discount

Send us an email: [email protected] or call +254724527104 

Certification

Upon successful completion of this training, participants will be issued with a globally- recognized certificate.

Tailor-Made Course

 We also offer tailor-made courses based on your needs.

Key Notes

a. The participant must be conversant with English.

b. Upon completion of training the participant will be issued with an Authorized Training Certificate

c. Course duration is flexible and the contents can be modified to fit any number of days.

d. The course fee includes facilitation training materials, 2 coffee breaks, buffet lunch and A Certificate upon successful completion of Training.

e. One-year post-training support Consultation and Coaching provided after the course.

f. Payment should be done at least a week before commence of the training, to DATASTAT CONSULTANCY LTD account, as indicated in the invoice so as to enable us prepare better for you.