Geopolitics of the Energy Transition (MEE200)

This course explores the international dimension of the energy transition. To do so, an understanding of the role of energy in international relations is crucial. The course covers the international dynamics around the energy transition, addressing the role of energy in power politics, economic interdependence, and diplomacy and other issues such as infrastructure development, EU external policy, raw materials, industrial competition etc.

The use of the 'Geovania Simulation' (https://geovania.nettopuis.live/) is a central element of this course, making it possible to experience the international as well as the domestic dimension of the energy transition.

The course provides knowledge relevant to achieving SDG7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and SDG13 (Climate Action). Starting with global institutions and governance, insights are provided that are conducive to SDG17 (Partnership for the Goals) in addition to providing knowledge and skills relevant to achieving SDG1 (No Poverty).


Course description for study year 2025-2026. Please note that changes may occur.

Facts

Course code

MEE200

Version

1

Credits (ECTS)

10

Semester tution start

Spring

Number of semesters

1

Exam semester

Spring

Language of instruction

English

Content

The shift to renewable energy is at the center of the course, but other innovative energy technologies are also included (e.g. CCS, hydrogen etc.). To develop an understanding of energy in international politics, the course draws on theories such as neo-realism, neo-liberalism and constructivism. Through these lenses, it will be possible to understand the role of energy in the relations between nations, as well as shifts due to the energy transition. Also, these constructs will allow it to develop an understanding of the motives that are driving state-actions, and hence the dynamics in the international landscape, and how they interact with the energy transition. Some background information about global governance institutions and industrial policy will also be presented.

Geopolitics is not a unified concept and represents a blend of knowledge related to disciplines such as Political Science, International Relations, and Economics. The discussion covers different geographies and actors, including information on different cases in a variety of geographical areas and countries. Additionally, several international organizations and institution are included, e.g. the United Nations, IRENA, and the World Bank.

The use of the Geovania Simulation gives students first-hand experience with the challenges and opportunities associated with the transition to renewable energy. The main feature is a hypothetical continent consisting of four very different countries. Finding a common strategy for the entire continent is difficult as every country is facing different challenges. However, with each round the pressure to find a way towards a carbon-neutral economy increases.

The course has a limitation of students. Students on programmes offered by Faculty of Social Science, Faculty of Science and Technology, and Faculty of Arts and Education will be prioritized in addition to incoming exchange students.

The course has a limitation of students. Students on programmes offered by Faculty of Social Science, Faculty of Science and Technology, and Faculty of Arts and Education will be prioritized in addition to incoming exchange students.

Learning outcome

Upon completing the course, the students will have the following knowledge, skills and competencies:

In terms of knowledge, students will have thorough knowledge into the following areas:

  • International politics, state actions, and motives of states
  • International relations theory and geopolitics
  • Renewable energy in international politics
  • Energy politics and policy in different geographical areas
  • Energy security, industrial policy, and the economics of the energy transition
  • Global governance and the energy transition

In terms of skills, students should be able to achieve the following:

  • Identify and describe geopolitically significant issues
  • Explain and use theoretical concepts related to the geopolitics of energy
  • Critically analyse cases through theoretical perspectives
  • Address challenges of global energy governance
  • Evaluate the prospects of the energy transition
  • Discuss trajectories and negotiate actions

In terms of general competencies, students should be able to:

  • Understand the energy transition and its prospects
  • Actively take part in discussions about international energy politics
  • Communicate international challenges associated with the energy transition
  • Work with others to identify and solve problems related to international politics
  • Write statements about international energy politics
  • Collaborate with others through effective written and oral presentations

Required prerequisite knowledge

None

Recommended prerequisites

Knowledge about international politics, history, and economics.

Exam

Form of assessment Weight Duration Marks Aid
Home exam 1/1 3 Days Letter grades

The home exam consists of one essay answering a given question.Cooperation is allowed, when applicable please refer to this in the paper.

Coursework requirements

Mandatory assignments
One individual oral presentation.

Course teacher(s)

Course coordinator:

Thomas Michael Sattich

Method of work

Course activities include lectures, guest lectures, and seminars. The latter include the use of an online learning tool about the geopolitics of renewables (Geovania.com).

Open for

The course is open to all students enrolled in a MA-programme at UiS, or exchange students on MA-level.

Course assessment

There must be an early dialogue between the course supervisor, the student union representative and the students. The purpose is feedback from the students for changes and adjustments in the course for the current semester.In addition, a digital course evaluation must be carried out at least every three years. Its purpose is to gather the students experiences with the course.

Literature

Search for literature in Leganto