Presiding: Cedric Clastres, General Conference Chair, Professor, University Grenoble Alpes, France

Panelists:

Christophe Bonnery, FAEE President, Program Director, Paris School of Economics, France.

Edmar de Almeida, IAEE President 2025, Professor, Pontifical Catholic University, Brazil.

A high-level official from the French government (name to be announced)

Presiding: Amy Myers Jaffe, Professor, School of Professional Studies, New York University, USA

The geopolitics of energy and climate change are deeply intertwined, shaping global dynamics and international relations. The transition to renewable energy sources is reshaping power structures, as countries that were once dominant in fossil fuel markets face new challenges. This shift is driven by the urgent need to mitigate climate change, which requires significant investments in clean technologies and international cooperation. However, the process is fraught with geopolitical tensions, as the control over critical materials and the security of energy supplies remain contentious issues. The success of global climate action hinges on navigating these complexities while ensuring a just and equitable transition for all nations. Several research questions could be raised in this opening session. For intance, how will fossil fuel-dependent economies, such as those in the Gulf region, respond to declining global demand for these resources? How do international agreements, like the Paris Agreement, shape the energy strategies of nations? Additionally, the emergence of new technologies, such as green hydrogen, raises questions about the redefinition of geopolitical alliances.

Keynote Speakers:

Fatih Birol, Executive Director, Internationl Energy Agency.

Christian Gollier, Professor, Toulouse School of Economics, France.

Stéphane Michel, General Director Gas, Renewables & Power, TotalEnergies.

Presiding: Aude Pommeret, Professor, Université Savoie Mont Blanc, France

There is a clear evidence of political opposition to the implementation of efficient carbon pricing. Confronted to such an opposition, climate policy relies on alternative policy interventions. However, any transition pathway is highly dependent on policy and mechanism design, which have a significant impact on whether climate neutrality can be achieved and on the cost of achieving it. It is easy for ineffective environmental policy to be politically successful but it has a cost in terms of welfare and public finances. Therefore, relying for instance on green subsidies for the energy transition may be unwise. However, fairness seems to be a prerequiste for achieving the energy transition. In such a context, how to design instruments that are fair without compromising an efficient energy transition ?

Keynote Speakers:

Ying Fan, Professor, Beihang University, China. 

Katheline Schubert, Professor, Paris School of Economics, France. 

Mark Jaccard, Professor, Simon Fraser University, Canada.  

Presiding: Anna Creti, Professor, University Paris-Dauphine, France

Energy poverty is a global issue affecting millions, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America, and South Asia. There are different attempts to define energy poverty, including the share of expenditures in energy bills, but also the lack of access to sustainable, modern energy services. Energy poverty impacts health, economic development, and overall quality of life. As of 2022, 759 million people lacked consistent electricity, and 2.6 billion relied on polluting cookstoves. Addressing energy poverty requires significant investments in infrastructure and clean energy technologies to ensure universal access to affordable and reliable energy sources. Energy poverty also arises in emergin or even developed countries, but with a different issue: consumers have a limited access because of prices or poor redistributive policies. In this environment, several questions could be adressed ; How access to reliable and affordable energy sources can impact economic development and quality of life ? How can solar, wind, and other renewable sources be effectively deployed in underserved communities? How do different policy frameworks influence the success of energy access initiatives? Lastly, understanding the relationship between energy poverty and climate change adaptation is crucial, as vulnerable populations often face the brunt of environmental challenges. These questions highlight the complexity of energy poverty and the need for comprehensive solutions.

Keynote Speakers:

Anna Alberini, Professor, University of Maryland, USA.

Stuti Khemani, Senior Economist, The World Bank.  

Roula Inglesi-Lotz, Professor, University of Pretoria, South Africa. 

Keynote Speaker:

Claire Waysand, Executive Vice President, in charge of Corporate Secretariat, Strategy, Research & Innovation and Communication, Engie, Engie

Presiding: Yukari Yamashita, Executive Director, Institute of Energy Economics, Japan

Sustainable electricity production involves generating power from renewable sources like solar, wind, and hydro, which reduces greenhouse gas emissions and environmental impact. The electrification of uses, such as transportation and heating, is crucial for decarbonizing the energy sector. This shift requires significant investments in renewable energy infrastructure and smart grid technologies to ensure reliable and efficient electricity supply. By integrating more renewable sources and improving energy efficiency, we can achieve a cleaner and more sustainable energy future. In that way, issues may be addressed as how different renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, and hydro, can be integrated into existing power grids to enhance reliability and efficiency. The role of energy storage technologies, like batteries and pumped hydro, in balancing supply and demand emerges as vital for ensuring a stable electricity supply. Another area of inquiry is the socio-economic implications of transitioning to sustainable energy systems. How can policies be designed to ensure equitable access to electricity for all communities, particularly in developing regions? Furthermore, the impact of decentralized energy systems, such as microgrids and energy communities, on local economies and energy resilience presents an intriguing research avenue. Investigating the potential of innovative financing models, such as green bonds or community-based funding, to support sustainable electricity projects could also be essential. Lastly, understanding the relationship between sustainable electricity production and climate change mitigation strategies can provide insights into how to achieve global climate goals while promoting electrification. These questions highlight the multifaceted nature of sustainable electricity production and its critical role in a sustainable future.

Keynote Speakers:

Catherine Wolfram, Professor, MIT Sloan School, USA. 

Christian Zinglersen, Director of the European Union Agency for the Cooperation of Energy Regulators .

Xavier Ursat, Executive Director, Direction of Strategy, Technologies, Innovation and Development, EDF.

Presiding: Olivier Massol, Professor, University Paris-Saclay, France

The future of natural gas and gas networks is a critical topic in supporting the transition to a cleaner energy future. Moreover, innovations such as renewable natural gas and carbon capture technologies could further enhance sustainability. Additionally, integrating natural gas with renewable energy sources like solar and wind can provide a reliable and environmentally friendly energy mix. These solutions not only reduce greenhouse gas emissions but also support economic growth and energy security. This session addresses these issues, considering for instance the adpatation of existing natural gas infrastructure to accommodate renewable gases, such as biogas and hydrogen. This raises inquiries about the technical and economic feasibility of retrofitting pipelines for these new uses. Others could also be included, as how can natural gas help bridge the gap between fossil fuels and renewable energy sources in various regions? Another area of study involves the impact of geopolitical dynamics on natural gas supply chains, especially in light of recent global events that affect energy security. Furthermore, investigating the potential for integrating natural gas networks with emerging technologies, such as carbon capture and storage, could provide insights into reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Lastly, understanding consumer behavior and acceptance of natural gas in the context of sustainability goals presents an intriguing avenue for research

Keynote Speakers:

Christian Von Hirschhausen, Professor, Berlin University of Technology, Germany. 

Yukari Yamashita, Executive Director, Institute of Energy Economics, Japan.

Marie-Claire Aoun, Director of Strategy and institutional relationships, TEREGA, France.

Presiding: Yannick Perez, Professor, University Paris-Saclay, France

In this session, panelists will share their insights and key research findings on the challenges of decentralization, decarbonization, and electricity networks in achieving the net-zero goal. The discussion will explore how decentralized energy markets empower local actors to manage their energy production and consumption, fostering self-sufficiency. It will highlight how decentralization supports small-scale renewable energy projects, such as solar and wind, reducing dependence on fossil fuels. Additionally, the session will examine how bottom-up approaches enable environmental policies tailored to regional needs, enhancing their effectiveness. Furthermore, panelists will delve into emerging business models, regulations and the impact of smart grid technologies in decentralized systems. Lastly, the session will explore how decentralized energy markets drive carbon neutrality by promoting sustainable, low-emission policies.

Keynote Speakers:

Michael Caramanis, Professor, Boston University, USA.
 
Ricardo Raineri, Professor, Pontifical Catholic University, former energy Minister, Chile. 

Laurens de Vries, Professor, Delft University of Technology, Netherlands. 

Presiding: Chloé Le Coq, Professor, University of Paris II Panthéon-Assas, France

Centralized energy networks traditionally rely on large-scale power plants that distribute electricity over vast areas, ensuring stable and efficient energy supply. However, this model faces challenges such as transmission losses and vulnerability to system-wide failures. In contrast, decentralized energy networks involve localized power generation and distribution, utilizing renewable resources like solar and wind. This approach enhances grid reliability, reduces environmental impact, and empowers communities to manage their energy needs more sustainably. The integration of both centralized and decentralized systems is crucial for a resilient and flexible energy future, supporting the transition to cleaner and more efficient energy solutions. Research questions can arise in this movoing environment. For instance, how smart grid technologies can enhance the efficiency and reliability of electricity distribution. This includes exploring the potential of real-time data analytics and automation in managing energy flow. Another interesting area of study is the impact of decentralized energy generation, such as rooftop solar panels and community wind farms, on traditional grid structures. How can grids adapt to accommodate these distributed energy resources while maintaining stability? Additionally, investigating the role of energy storage systems, like batteries, in balancing supply and demand is crucial for grid resilience. What are the best practices for integrating these technologies into existing infrastructures? Furthermore, understanding the socio-economic implications of transitioning to smart grids, particularly in underserved communities, presents an important avenue for research. Lastly, examining the regulatory frameworks that support or hinder the development of modern electrical networks can provide insights into future energy policies. These questions highlight the transformative potential of electrical grids for a sustainable energy future.

Keynote Speakers:

Chiara Lo Prete, Professor, Penn State University, USA.

Paul L. Joskow, Professor, MIT, USA.

Thomas Veyrenc, Member of the Executive Board, Managing Director in charge of Economy, Strategy and Finance, RTE, France.

Presiding: Ricardo Raineri, Professor, Pontifical Catholic University, former energy Minister, Chile.

Access to energy in developing countries is a critical issue that influences economic growth, health, and education. Access to energy is crucial for global development, with fossil fuels currently dominating the energy landscape, accounting for over 80% of global production. However, renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and hydro are gaining momentum, contributing about 29% of electricity generation. These clean energy sources reduce greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution, offering a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels. The transition to renewables is essential for mitigating climate change and ensuring energy security, particularly as millions still lack access to modern energy services. In this way, this session aims to for instance highlighting how countries can balance their energy needs with the urgency of climate change, particularly when considering the choice between fossil fuels and renewable energy sources. What factors influence policymakers' decisions to invest in one over the other? How can partnerships between governments, NGOs, and private sectors facilitate the transition to sustainable energy? Examining the long-term economic implications of relying on fossil fuels versus renewables seems usefull to inform future energy policies. Finally, it is essential to explore how developing countries, often the most vulnerable to climate change effects, can access sustainable energy resources while navigating a complex geopolitical landscape. These questions provide fertile ground for interdisciplinary research, blending political science, economics, and environmental studies.

Keynote Speakers:

Fahad Alajlan, President at KAPSARC.
 
Vibha Dhawan, Director General, TERI, India. 

Ujjayant Chakravorty, Professor, Tuft s University, USA. 

Presiding & Keynote: IAEE President 2019 : Christophe Bonnery, Program Director, Paris School of Economics, France

Keynote Speakers:

• IAEE President 2015 & 2022 : Peter Hartley, Professor, Rice University, USA.
• IAEE President 2016 : Gürkan Kumbaroğlu, Professor, Boğaziçi University, Istanbul, Turkey. 
• IAEE President 2017 : Ricardo Raineri, Professor, Pontifical Catholic University, former energy Minister, Chile.
  
• IAEE President 2020 : Yukari Yamashita, Executive Director, Institute of Energy Economics, Japan.
• IAEE President 2025 : Edmar de Almeida, Professor, Pontifical Catholic University, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

IAEE future hosting conferences: