Context and Motivation
We face many environmental challenges (pollution, climate change). Our energy system is linked to many of these challenges.
Many seek to transform our energy system so that it continues to provide benefits but lowers the costs and harms.
Sociotechnical System
Energy is often called a sociotechnical system since understanding it requires
- A knowledge of the social factors shaping the system and its use
- A knowledge of technical factors shaping the conversions of energy sources into energy services
Electrical Energy
- How do we measure the amount of electrical energy we use?
- How is electricity turned into useful services?
Thermal Energy
- How much energy is needed to heat water?
- How much energy is needed to warm a home?
Costs
- How do we calculate the cost of a loan for an energy upgrade?
- Can we compute a number to compare the cost effectiveness of different options?
Carbon
- How much carbon must be emitted to obtain energy services?
- How much would a carbon tax increase the cost of energy services?
Policy
- What are the types of policy that can be used to promote the energy transition?
- How do we quantify the effectiveness of a policy?