International Regulation of the Energy Sector module (CP52077)

International Regulation of the Energy Sector involves the legal frameworks and policies that govern energy production, distribution, and consumption across borders. Key elements include treaties like the Energy Charter Treaty (ECT), which promotes energy cooperation and investment protection.

International organisations such as the International Energy Agency (IEA) and the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) play crucial roles in setting standards and facilitating collaboration. These regulations aim to ensure energy security, promote sustainable development, and address climate change by harmonising national policies and encouraging international cooperation.

What you will learn

In this module you will gain:

• an understanding of the legal and policy issues involved in the regulation of the energy sector particularly electricity and gas
• a critical awareness of the instruments and tools of regulation
• extensive knowledge and understanding of the implications of energy sector regulation for states with different energy mixes and capacity constraints
• extensive understanding of how energy transition is driven by policy objectives rather than market ideals
• extensive knowledge and understanding of the economic and political theory underpinnings of energy regulation.

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

• undertake a comparative evaluation of principles, instruments and tools of regulation in leading and emerging economies
• critically analyse how regulation is responding to the issues arising from the operation of transboundary and regional markets
• critically evaluate the interaction of policy and law in the regulation of electricity, gas and new kinds of energy sources

Assignments / assessment

• coursework (100%)

This module does not have a final exam.

Teaching methods / timetable

You will be taught using:

• lectures
• students’ presentations
• group discussion and teamwork
• talks by invited speakers

You will be encouraged to read in advance and participate in discussion.