MITx: Energy Economics and Policy course Syllabus

Overview: This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the economics and policy frameworks shaping global energy systems. Learners will explore energy markets, regulatory models, and sustainability challenges, with a focus on real-world applications and policy analysis. The curriculum spans approximately 14–20 weeks of part-time study, with an estimated total effort of 60–80 hours. Modules build from foundational economic principles to advanced policy evaluation, culminating in a final project applying course concepts to real energy challenges.

Module 1: Foundations of Energy Economics

Estimated time: 12 hours

• Basic economic principles in energy markets
• Supply and demand dynamics in energy systems
• How energy prices are determined
• Natural resources and economic development
• Global trends in energy consumption

Module 2: Energy Markets & Industry Structure

Estimated time: 16 hours

• Structure of electricity, oil, and natural gas markets
• Operations of energy companies in competitive and regulated environments
• Pricing strategies and market competition
• Role of infrastructure in energy distribution
• Market failures and regulatory responses

Module 3: Energy Policy & Regulation

Estimated time: 16 hours

• Government tools for managing energy markets
• Environmental regulations and carbon pricing
• Policies to promote renewable energy adoption
• Comparative analysis of global energy policy frameworks
• Energy security and public policy

Module 4: Energy Transition & Sustainability

Estimated time: 12 hours

• Renewable energy technologies and economic impacts
• Challenges in transitioning from fossil fuels
• Energy efficiency policies
• Climate change mitigation strategies
• Sustainable energy development pathways

Module 5: Emerging Technologies and Global Strategies

Estimated time: 10 hours

• Impact of emerging technologies on energy systems
• Role of innovation in energy economics
• Global energy strategies in a low-carbon future
• Interactions between technology, policy, and markets

Module 6: Final Project

Estimated time: 14 hours

• Analyze a real-world energy policy issue
• Evaluate economic and environmental impacts using data
• Develop evidence-based policy recommendations

Prerequisites

• Basic understanding of high school-level algebra
• Familiarity with fundamental economic concepts (helpful but not required)
• Interest in energy, sustainability, or public policy

What You'll Be Able to Do After

• Explain how energy markets function and how prices are determined
• Analyze the economic and environmental impacts of energy policies
• Interpret global energy consumption and production trends
• Assess the effectiveness of renewable energy and climate policies
• Develop data-driven policy recommendations for sustainable energy systems