The world is transitioning to a low carbon economy, and yet some extractive resources, including critical minerals and natural gas, are becoming crucial in this energy transition era. Additionally, both the developed and developing countries’ energy needs and challenges do raise concern on how we can ensure economic development and at the same time tackle the challenge of energy poverty and access. Questions relating to the trilemma between energy access, economic development and climate change are the drivers behind this course. Holistic questions and solutions are vital in ensuring that governments, practitioners, investors and relevant stakeholders in both the Global North and Global South clearly understand the key aspects surrounding energy transition and extractive industries development. Fossil fuels, including oil, gas, and coal, are still significant in various resource-rich countries, especially those in the developing world.

Additionally, revenues from these resources can be used to finance renewable energy projects. Furthermore, the mining sector has increasingly become important, given the crucial role of critical minerals in the energy transition. So, how do we strike a balance concerning extractive resources management and energy transitions? What is the role of governments and energy companies? Do private institutions and public institutions have a role to play? How can countries develop their economies without damaging the planet? What about societal and environmental concerns associated with both fossil fuels and renewable energy? How do we explain the practical impact of growing concepts, including energy transitions, energy progression, energy justice, energy transformation and a just transition to a low carbon economy?

This 12-week course aims to address all the above questions. Delivered by renowned international energy experts, the course will provide our participants with crucial issues regarding managing the decline of fossil fuel investments in this energy transition era. They will understand the political, legal, social and economic aspects relating to natural resources governance. They will appreciate the dynamic and interwoven facets of extractive industries; renewable energy development, energy sustainability, energy transitions, energy justice, energy progression and transformation.