2016-2017 Academic Catalog 
    
    Mar 28, 2024  
2016-2017 Academic Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

IDCE 362 - Energy System Transitions


 

This course explores energy systems, both the technological and social dimensions, with a focus on the potential for a low-carbon transition in electricity systems, transportation systems, and other energy systems (buildings, manufacturing, etc). The social structures and processes that reinforce and perpetuate fossil fuel reliance will be interrogated, as will the opportunities and challenges of alternatives. Fundamental tensions associated with systemic versus incremental change, centralized versus decentralized systems, and infrastructural lock-in versus flexibility will be explored through semester-long team projects in which students will contribute to existing, on-going, actual initiatives designed to advance energy system change. These projects will require students to learn through assessment of and engagement with non-academic “real-world” energy system transition initiatives. 

Prerequisites:  

EN 101 Environmental Science and Policy: Introductory Case Studies

Anticipated Terms Offered: Fall or Spring