Energy is central in our lives. We take it for granted that when we flip a switch the light will come on, or when we plug in our smart phones the battery will begin charging. When we get cold we turn up the heat; when we get hot we run the air conditioner. Fueling stations for our gas- and diesel-powered vehicles are so ubiquitous as to have become mundane. Nearly every imaginable physical good or service we trade in modern markets requires some form of energy to produce, transport, and/or consume. This course examines the economics of energy markets, encompassing the full value chain from production to consumption. We will cover all major primary energy resources, including fossil fuels, nuclear, hydroelectric, and renewables, as well as electricity and transportation fuel markets. Particular focus is given to environmental and health impacts, regulation and industrial organization, and energy policy at both the state and federal levels.
Students will learn to apply core micro- and macroeconomic principles to energy markets.
None. All texts are optional.
Standard grading scale.
- 90.0-100: A
- 80.0-89.99: B
- 70.0-79.99: C
- 60.0-69.99: D
- <60.0: F
Breakdown of graded items:
- Homeworks (25%)
- Exams (50%)
- Group research paper (25%)
None.
Students are expected to maintain the highest standards of academic integrity. All work submitted must be original and properly cited. Plagiarism, cheating, or any form of academic dishonesty will result in immediate consequences as outlined in the university's academic integrity policy.
This is a Core IMPACTS course that is part of the Social Sciences area.
Core IMPACTS refers to the core curriculum, which provides students with essential knowledge in foundational academic areas. This course will help master course content, and support students’ broad academic and career goals.
This course should direct students toward a broad Orienting Question:
- How do I apply core micro- and macroeconomic principles to energy markets?
Completion of this course should enable students to meet the following Learning Outcomes:
- Students will effectively apply micro- and macroeconomic principles to energy markets.
- Students will gain a broader understanding of how economists approach energy problems and their relationship to environmental and health outcomes.
- Students will gain a deeper understanding of how energy policies are informed by economic analysis.
Course content, activities and exercises in this course should help students develop the following Career-Ready Competencies:
- Analytical approach to problem solving
- Ability to synthesize and communicate complex market information
- Quantitative & writing skills