VVZ API is not affiliated with ETH Zurich. Data might be outdated or incorrect. Please view the official ETHZ Vorlesungsverzeichnis for binding information.

151-0226-00L 4 Credits BSC , MSC D-USYS , D-BAUG , D-MAVT , D-GESS , D-ITET

Energy and Transport Futures

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. em. Dr. Konstantinos Boulouchos, Dr. Peter Jan de Haan van der Weg, Dr. Gil Georges
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:42:17

Abstract

The course teaches to view local energy solutions as part of the larger energy system. Because it powers all sectors, local changes can have consequences reaching well beyond one sector. While we explore all sectors, we put a particular emphasis on mobility and its unique challenges. We not only cover engineering aspects, but also policymaking and behavioral economics.

Objective

The main objectives of this lecture are: (i) Systemic view on the Energy Sytem with emphasis on Transport Applications (ii) Students can assess the reduction of energy demand (or greenhouse gas emissions) of sectoral solutions. (iii) Students understand the advantages and disadvantages of technology options in mobility (iv) Students know policy tools to affect change in mobility, and understand the rebound effect.

Content

The course describes the role of energy system plays for the well-being of modern societies, and drafts a future energy system based on renewable energy sources, able to meet the demands of the sectors building, industry and transport. The projected Swiss energy system is used as an example. Students learn how all sectoral solutions feedback on the whole system and how sector coupling could lead to optimal transformation paths. The course then focuses on the history, status quo and technical potentials of the transport sector. Policy mixes to reduce energy demand and CO2 emissions from transport are introduced. Both direct and indirect effects of different policy types are discussed. Concepts from behavioral economics (car purchase behavior and rebound effects) are presented. Preliminary schedule: Block 1. Energy technologies and policies. Climate, Environment, Security of Supply.Technology options and policies in power generation, building and industrial sectors . Block 2. Transport technologies. Technology options in mobility and their physical aspects Block 3. Transport policies Regulation, policy tools and technological potential to affect change in mobility Block 4. Energy and Transport Futures Closing loop across all sectors. Sector-coupling.

Resources

Lecture Notes

t.b.d.

Literature

t.b.d.

General Information

Language
English
Levels
BSC , MSC

Examination

Type
session examination
Mode
written 120 minutes
Aids
Calculator without any wireless communication functionality.
The course incorporates an optional “Learning task” (Lernelement) which can improve the total course unit grade by up to 0.25 grade points.This course will be offered for the last time in Spring Semester 2020. The examination can be repeated for the last time in Winter Session 2021.

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture with exercise Energy and Transport Futures
  • Wed 15:15-18:00 (ML F 36)
3 h weekly

Offered In