Economic Regulation for Energy and Infrastructure Policy

The stability and efficiency of modern economies depend on well-regulated infrastructure and energy systems. Understanding the economic principles governing these vital sectors is essential for policymakers and industry professionals. This course provides a solid foundation in the theories and models used to manage regulated industries. You will gain the analytical skills necessary to evaluate regulatory interventions, incentive structures, and market designs for critical public utilities. What you'll learn: * Understand the fundamental economic justifications for regulation, including concepts of natural monopoly and market failure. * Analyze core regulatory models, such as rate-of-return regulation and price cap regulation, and their practical implications. * Practice evaluating incentive mechanisms designed to promote efficiency, investment, and performance in utility operations. * Examine the regulatory challenges posed by modern energy transitions, including decarbonization and decentralized generation. * Apply regulatory frameworks to specific infrastructure sectors, including electricity grids, water supply, and transportation networks. * Learn the basics of modern regulatory tools like performance-based regulation (PBR) for utility pricing and investment. The course begins by defining key terminology and economic concepts, then systematically explores classic regulatory theories before moving into contemporary applications and written case studies across diverse infrastructure types. This course is designed for beginners: students, public policy analysts, economists, and engineers who need a foundational understanding of regulated industries. No prior knowledge of economic regulation is required. Start building your expertise in vital economic policy today.