The global challenge of climate change and the imperative for sustainable development have placed energy policy at the forefront of international and national agendas. It's no longer just about meeting demand; it's about crafting the strategic frameworks that will guide a just and orderly transition away from fossil fuels. This requires a deep understanding of how policy instruments—from carbon pricing and subsidies to international accords and regulatory standards—can accelerate the deployment of clean technologies, manage economic disruption, and ensure energy access and equity for all. This course is designed to equip professionals with the knowledge and skills to navigate this complex policy landscape and drive meaningful change.

This program provides a comprehensive and practical exploration of the policies that are shaping the future of energy. Participants will analyze the intricate relationship between energy markets, technological innovation, and political will. The course delves into best practices in designing effective policies, assessing their impact, and engaging stakeholders in a multi-faceted process. By focusing on real-world examples, global case studies, and hands-on exercises, attendees will be prepared to contribute to the creation of robust, forward-looking energy policies that foster sustainability, enhance energy security, and build a more resilient and equitable global energy system.

Duration: 10 days

Target Audience:

• Policymakers and Legislators
• Government and Public Sector Professionals
• Energy Sector Strategists
• Climate and Environmental Advocates
• International Relations Specialists
• Development Professionals
• Energy Economists and Analysts
• Consultants in Public Policy
• Researchers and Academics
• Professionals from NGOs and Think Tanks

Objectives:

• Understand the core principles of energy policy and governance.
• Master the design and implementation of effective policy instruments.
• Learn to conduct a comprehensive analysis of energy transition policies.
• Grasp the role of international agreements in shaping national energy strategies.
• Explore best practices in regulating energy markets for sustainability.
• Develop proficiency in assessing the economic and social impacts of policy.
• Learn about robust approaches to promoting energy access and equity.
• Identify the critical ethical, legal, and regulatory considerations in energy policy.
• Develop skills in stakeholder engagement and policy advocacy.
• Formulate strategies for building a resilient and sustainable energy system.

Course Modules:

Module 1: The Foundations of Energy Policy

• The policy-making cycle and its relevance to energy
• The goals of energy policy (e.g., security, affordability, sustainability)
• The role of government in energy markets
• Key challenges and trends in global energy policy
• An introduction to energy governance structures

Module 2: Policy Instruments and Design

• Command-and-control vs. market-based instruments
• Subsidies, taxes, and feed-in tariffs
• Renewable Portfolio Standards (RPS) and other mandates
• Efficiency standards and building codes
• Public procurement and government support

Module 3: The Economics of Energy Policy

• The economic rationale for policy intervention
• Cost-benefit analysis of energy policies
• The impact of subsidies on market dynamics
• Price signals and consumer behavior
• Fiscal policy and clean energy incentives

Module 4: Carbon Pricing Mechanisms

• Carbon taxes: design, implementation, and revenue use
• Emissions Trading Systems (ETS): cap-and-trade
• Linking carbon markets across jurisdictions
• The role of offsets and carbon credits
• The politics and public acceptance of carbon pricing

Module 5: International Climate Agreements

• The history of international climate cooperation
• The Paris Agreement and Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs)
• The role of the UNFCCC and annual COPs
• International cooperation on technology transfer and finance
• The legal and political weight of global accords

Module 6: Energy Security and Geopolitics

• Defining energy security in a transitioning world
• The geopolitics of fossil fuels vs. renewables
• Managing supply chain risks for clean technologies
• Energy diplomacy and international relations
• Case studies in energy security challenges

Module 7: Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

• SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
• The link between energy policy and other SDGs
• The concept of energy poverty and access
• The role of distributed energy solutions
• Measuring progress towards sustainable energy for all

Module 8: The Role of Technology and Innovation

• Policy frameworks to accelerate technology deployment
• Government R&D funding and support
• Regulatory sandboxes and innovation
• The policy implications of new technologies (e.g., hydrogen, AI)
• The learning curve and cost reduction policies

Module 9: Energy Transition Planning

• Creating a national energy transition roadmap
• Modeling future energy scenarios
• Stakeholder engagement in transition planning
• Designing a just transition for communities
• Policy tools for managing disruption

Module 10: Energy Efficiency and Demand-Side Policy

• The importance of energy efficiency as a "first fuel"
• Policy instruments to promote efficiency
• Standards for appliances and buildings
• The economics of demand-side management
• Case studies on effective efficiency programs

Module 11: Transport and Industry Decarbonization

• Policy levers for decarbonizing transportation
• The role of electric vehicles and infrastructure policy
• The challenges of industrial decarbonization
• Carbon capture and storage policy
• The politics of phasing out fossil fuels

Module 12: Regulation of Energy Markets

• The role of regulatory bodies in energy
• Regulating monopolies vs. competitive markets
• Policy for grid modernization and smart grids
• Interconnection standards for renewables
• Utility rate-setting and incentives

Module 13: Social and Environmental Justice

• The equity dimensions of energy policy
• Addressing disproportionate impacts on communities
• Designing policies that promote energy justice
• Public participation and consultation
• The human rights implications of energy projects

Module 14: Risk Management in Policy

• Identifying and assessing policy risks
• Strategies for mitigating political and regulatory risk
• Building public support and overcoming opposition
• The role of science and data in policy-making
• Learning from policy successes and failures

Module 15: Policy Advocacy and Communication

• Developing a compelling policy case
• The role of coalitions and alliances
• Communicating complex issues to the public
• Engaging with policymakers and lobbyists
• Media relations and public awareness campaigns

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement. For further inquiries, please contact us on: Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Skills for Africa Training Institute Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Skills for Africa Training Institute certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request. For booking contact our Training Coordinator through Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Terms of Payment: Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties’ payment of the course fee should be done 10 working days before commencement of the training.