Societies across the globe are in dire need to decarbonize their energy systems and to switch to renewable energy production, a transformation generally known as the green transition. Whereas the motivation for this energy transition is particular – anthropogenic climate change – the transition from one energy source to another is not unique. Throughout history, societies have harvested different energies and transitioned from one energy carrier and system to another, such as from organic to fossil materials.In five thematic modules, students will learn about energy transitions through the lens of energy history and their wider implications for nature, societies, and cultures. They will explore energy transitions as a concept and as a political, social, and environmental reality. And they will learn about the importance of studying energy and energy transitions in history.This course will teach students that energy transitions not only are technological but also societal and cultural transformations. As such, Histories of Energy Transitions will be valuable for students from sciences, technology, engineering, humanities, education, and arts who are interested in energy issues.
Histories of Energy Transitions
Histories of Energy Transitions
Description
Societies across the globe are in dire need to decarbonize their energy systems and to switch to renewable energy production, a transformation generally known as the green transition. Whereas the motivation for this energy transition is particular – anthropogenic climate change – the transition from one energy source to another is not unique. Throughout history, societies have harvested different energies and transitioned from one energy carrier and system to another, such as from organic to fossil materials. In five thematic modules, students will learn about energy transitions through the lens of energy history and their wider implications for nature, societies, and cultures. They will explore energy transitions as a concept and as a political, social, and environmental reality. And they will learn about the importance of studying energy and energy transitions in history. This course will teach students that energy transitions not only are technological but also societal and cultural transformations.
The Team
- Topics
- Study format
- Online
- Application period
- 1 July – 1 September 2025
- Study period
- 6 October – 12 December 2025
- Credits
- 5 ECTS
- Hosting university
- University of Stavanger
Learning outcomes
Knowledge about energy transitions as processes
The student has knowledge about theories, processes, and methods for investigating energy transitions and how energy transitions have historically been conceptualized.
ESCO SKILLS
Understanding of historical concepts and analyses
The student can find, evaluate, and apply information about energy transitions in a scientifically acceptable way and reflect over energy transitions historically.
ESCO SKILLS
Plan, develop and present historical research
The student can plan and complete compulsory activities on time and develop ideas independently, participate in online discussions with others about interdisciplinary issues, and present research in written form.
ESCO SKILLS
Potential progress
This graph shows the potential you could reach if you take this learning opportunity and how it fits your goal. You can also make a comparison to your current and potential competencies by pressing the buttons.
We recommend to turn your device to view graph
Not sure which competencies suit you?
Take our motivation scan to find learning opportunities that will help you reach your potential goal and growth.
Information
Societies across the globe are in dire need to decarbonize their energy systems and to switch to renewable energy production, a transformation generally known as the green transition. Whereas the motivation for this energy transition is particular – anthropogenic climate change – the transition from one energy source to another is not unique. Throughout history, societies have harvested different energies and transitioned from one energy carrier and system to another, such as from organic to fossil materials.In five thematic modules, students will learn about energy transitions through the lens of energy history and their wider implications for nature, societies, and cultures. They will explore energy transitions as a concept and as a political, social, and environmental reality. And they will learn about the importance of studying energy and energy transitions in history.This course will teach students that energy transitions not only are technological but also societal and cultural transformations. As such, Histories of Energy Transitions will be valuable for students from sciences, technology, engineering, humanities, education, and arts who are interested in energy issues.
Hosting university
University of Stavanger
