363-1031-00L  Quantitative Methods in Energy and Environmental Economics

SemesterSpring Semester 2017
LecturersS. Rausch, A. L. Martinez Cruz
Periodicityyearly recurring course
Language of instructionEnglish


AbstractThe course provides an introduction to quantitative methods used to analyze problems in energy and environmental economics. Emphasis will be put on partial equilibrium models, static and dynamic general equilibrium models, climate economic models and integrated assessment models, regression models to estimate demand functions, econometric techniques for policy evaluations, and panel data methods.
ObjectiveThe objectives of the course are twofold. First, the course is intended to provide an introduction to the economic assessment of energy and environmental policy. To this end, the course provides students with an overview of state-of-the-art tools to economic modeling and econometric approaches. Second, the course is intended to familiarize master (and doctoral students) with the computer software necessary to implement these quantitative methods to initiate their own research in energy and environmental economics.

Ancillary objectives of the course include an introduction to environmental implications of energy use and the role of economic analysis in designing policies which address issues of energy security, climate change and related environmental externalities.
LiteratureLecture notes, exercises and reference material will be made available to students during the semester.
Prerequisites / NoticeBasic knowledge of microeconomics and calculus. Knowledge from the course Energy Economics and Policy (363-0514-00L) is helpful but not required.