The Technology, Economics, and Public Policy of Renewable Energy

Energy is the lifeblood of economic activity, indeed of human society. However, the planet’s stores of easily accessed fossil fuels are limited, and the climatological cost of continuing to rely on fossil fuels is high. This course examines the long run and short run prospects for renewable energy. We start by understanding the technology of various renewables, including hydro, solar, wind, biomass, etc. We then examine the economics of these technologies, and how policies (subsidies, taxes, regulations) affect their viability. Special attention will be paid to the interaction of technology, economics, and public policy.
Recommended Prep: Economics 10a.