151-0226-00L  Energy and Transport Futures

SemesterSpring Semester 2018
LecturersK. Boulouchos, P. J. de Haan van der Weg, G. Georges
Periodicityyearly recurring course
Language of instructionEnglish


AbstractThe course teaches to view local energy solutions as part of the larger energy system. Because it powers all sectors, local changes can have consequences reaching well beyond one sector. While we explore all sectors, we put a particular emphasis on mobility and its unique challenges. We not only cover engineering aspects, but also policymaking and behavioral economics.
ObjectiveThe main objectives of this lecture are:
(i) Systemic view on the Energy Sytem with emphasis on Transport Applications
(ii) Students can assess the reduction of energy demand (or greenhouse gas emissions) of sectoral solutions.
(iii) Students understand the advantages and disadvantages of technology options in mobility, and have a basic overview over those in other sectors
(iv) Students know policy tools to affect change in mobility, and understand the rebound effect.
ContentThe course describes the role of energy system plays for the well-being of modern societies, and drafts a future energy system based on renewable energy sources, able to meet the demands of the sectors building, industry and transport. The projected Swiss energy system is used as an example. Students learn how all sectoral solutions feedback on the whole system and how sector coupling could lead to optimal transformation paths. The course then focuses on the history, status quo and technical potentials of the transport sector. Policy mixes to reduce energy demand and CO2 emissions from transport are introduced. Both direct and indirect effects of different policy types are discussed. Concepts from behavioral economics (car purchase behavior and rebound effects) are presented.

Preliminary schedule:
1 Introduction: Energy and Society
2 Global Energy System of Planet Earth
3 Challenges Ahead: Climate, Environment, Security of Supply
4 Buildings and Industrial Processes
5 Power Generation
6 Transport Sector (All modes)
7 Sector Coupling – A system approach for optimal design
8 Status Quo and Historic Development of Mobility
9 Vehicle Technology – Useful Energy
10 Powertrain Technology Paths
11 Energy Infrastructure for Transport
12 Technology diffusion and policy instruments
13 Current transport policies in the EU and in Switzerland
14 Effects and side-effects of current policies
Lecture notest.b.d.
Literaturet.b.d.