The objective of this course is to give an introduction to energy policy, law and regulation and the challenges that governments and politicians face in the context of energy transition toward a low-carbon sustainable economy in a geopolitically turbulent world. The course explores how companies are subject to and deal with various form of political intervention, from public ownership to regulation, and how international oil and gas markets change. It examines the challenges that geopolitical, technological and supply and demand developments present for governments and firms, how energy policy (at the international, EU, and national) level is designed, and how states and international organizations use law and regulation to build and shape markets, cope with energy security and manage the green transition. The course discusses the policy implications of approaching energy as a public, private, and strategic good; and the strengths and weaknesses of different types of energy policy tools. A range of empirical cases are used to explore these themes.

Acquired knowledge:
Participants will acquire an understanding of how national and international economic and political frameworks and governance mechanisms influence the energy industry and markets, with an emphasis on the challenges to energy policy makers and energy market regulators. This includes policy tools such as direct government intervention, state ownership, and arms-length regulation, including the EU's efforts to build markets and make them operate efficiently.