Decarbonization and the Energy Industry: An Introduction to the Legal and Policy Issues

Abstract

This is an introduction to the research project and forthcoming handbook on energy decarbonization. The project adopts a ‘law-in-context’ approach to examining the reliability and security supply issues that typically arise in the path towards developing a low or zero-carbon energy supply system, especially where natural gas, electricity, and renewables are expected to play a dominant role. It considers the subjects of energy, energy transitions and the imperative of decarbonization from a legal and regulatory purview.

The book comprises two parts and sixteen (16) chapters. The theme of the first part is ‘enhancing secure and reliable access to sustainable energy systems in the 21st Century’ while the theme of the second part is ‘energy transitions law and regulation in selected countries and regions’ including the US, China, Europe, Nigeria, and Southern Africa.

Keywords: Energy Law, Energy Policy, Energy Regulation, Gas and Electricity, Security of Supply, Sustainability, Renewable Energy, Carbon Emissions, Climate Change, Reliable Energy, Universal Energy Access, Decarbonisation

JEL Classification: Q4, Q41, Q42, Q48, K23