OAFP 7060 - Gas, international market and future role in the energy transition

The aim of the course is to provide students with a solid understanding of the status of natural gas in the global energy mix, its role in different regions of the world and how it influences energy policy orientations. After an introduction presenting some fundamentals about the energy industry and an illustration of questions about the future gas consumption trends, the lecture develops a description of the physical and economic characteristics of gas. It shows how these characteristics influenced the structure of the industry and the development of international trade. A focus is proposed on Russia's role in the history of gas and the impact of the invasion of Ukraine, in particular as a cause of the 2022 European energy crisis. Climate change mitigation and gas is addressed regularly along the course in terms of possible energy substitutions, the climate impact of gas consumption, a special focus is proposed on the EU climate change mitigation strategy.
The course is addressed from the perspective of public decision making. It aims at highlighting the challenges posed by the need to reduce gas consumption and how likely it may be in the light of current energy policies and strategies.

Benoit ESNAULT

Enseignement électif

English

No mandatory readings but suggested publications or information sources. Students are invited to get some complementary information through personal investigations. During the class, the main work will consist in preparing a presentation on a topic chosen among a list provided by the teacher as well as the associated paper. The final exam will particularly promote personal reflection and readings.

No prerequisite

Spring 2024-2025

Each student will get three marks, for the binom presentation, for the associated paper and the final exam. Each mark will have the same weight. The originality of reflections and accuracy of information presented will be particularly valued. The exam is an online two hour dissertation.

The 4 first sessions will take the form of classical lectures, to “set the scene”. As from the 5th lecture, the final 30 minutes will be dedicated to binomial presentations from students on topics in relation with the course. Each presentation shall be summarised in a 4 pages paper.