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Whole Energy Systems

Module description

Energy is of fundamental importance to our personal comfort, our societal wellbeing, the quality of our environment, and the functioning of our economy. However, energy systems are complex, comprising a multitude of actors, institutions and technologies, each interacting dynamically and at times unpredictably. This complexity raises challenges for how we understand and manage energy systems, particularly in the context of meeting transformative climate mitigation and global zero-carbon goals.

Rather than focusing on specific technologies (e.g. electric vehicles, nuclear power plants, and so on), processes (e.g. electricity generation vs. consumption) or actors (e.g. governments, or individuals), this module focuses on the role of whole systems approaches in understanding and managing energy systems. The module therefore draws on insights from across multiple disciplines to engage with the complexity and interdependency inherent in energy systems, and to find meaningful ways forward in understanding and shaping change in such systems.

Module aims - intentions of the module

This module aims to provide students with an in-depth understanding of the core concepts, challenges, and potential solutions associated with affecting change in energy systems. In doing so we examine the interactions between energy systems and a broad set of societal objectives including low carbon transformations, but also sustainability, legitimacy, fairness and equity. Although the focus is on energy, our emphasis on systems perspectives provides a firm basis for engaging with a wide range of societal problems.

The module will also introduce you to relevant academic and professional skills which can be utilised and drawn on in a wide range of professions and occupations. These skills will include:

• An appreciation of the value of whole-systems thinking in addressing issues in complex systems;
• The ability to integrate knowledge, ideas and methods from across disciplinary boundaries;
• Competence in articulating and presenting, principles and theories using a variety of formats, in a manner appropriate to the intended audience;
• Working effectively individually and within a group setting;
• The development of time management and organisational skills.

Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs)

ILO: Module-specific skills

On successfully completing the module you will be able to...

• 1. Describe in broad terms the key components of energy systems and how they interact
• 2. Articulate the challenges associated with understanding and managing whole energy systems
• 3. Appraise methodologies and practical approaches associated with whole system approaches around energy

ILO: Discipline-specific skills

On successfully completing the module you will be able to...

• 4. Describe the theories and practicalities relating to energy systems from whole system perspective
• 5. Articulate the relationship between issues in energy systems and wider themes in sustainability
• 6. Synthesise material appropriately from a broad range of disciplines to support analyses
• 7. Appraise current developments in energy policy as they emerge

ILO: Personal and key skills

On successfully completing the module you will be able to...

• 8. Devise and sustain a logical and reasoned argument with sound, convincing conclusions
• 9. Articulate ideas and arguments using a variety of formats in a manner appropriate to the intended audience
• 10. Critically reflect on learning experiences and your own performance
• 11. Manage deadlines
• 12. Work within groups as well as independently

Syllabus plan

Whilst the module’s precise content may vary from year to year, it is envisaged that the syllabus will cover some or all of the following topics:

• The physical, technical and social nuts and bolts of energy systems
• The policy – and societal – objectives of energy systems
• Processes and outcomes of energy system innovation
• Agency within households, firms and other institutions
• Consensus and contestation in energy system governance

Learning activities and teaching methods (given in hours of study time)

Details of learning activities and teaching methods

Formative assessment

Summative assessment (% of credit)

Details of summative assessment

Details of re-assessment (where required by referral or deferral)

Re-assessment notes

Deferral – if you miss an assessment for certificated reasons judged acceptable by the Mitigation Committee, you will normally be either deferred in the assessment or an extension may be granted. The mark given for a re-assessment taken as a result of deferral will not be capped and will be treated as it would be if it were your first attempt at the assessment.

Referral – if you have failed the module overall (i.e. a final overall module mark of less than 40%) you will be required to re-submit coursework as necessary. The mark given for a re-assessment taken as a result of referral will be capped at 40%.

Indicative learning resources - Basic reading

• Bridge et al (2018) Energy and society: a critical perspective. Routledge.
• Mitchell C. (2008) The Political Economy of Sustainable Energy. London, Palgrave
• Hill, M.J. (2009) The Public Policy Process. Harlow: Longman
• Verbong, G & Loorbach, D. Governing the energy transition. Oxford. Routledge

Indicative learning resources - Web based and electronic resources

• ELE page: http://vle.exeter.ac.uk/course/view.php?id=7287

Key words search

Energy, society, innovation, governance, policy