Areas of Focus / Research Theme

Energy Markets

A man sitting in darkness with the exception of a dim light. This picture depicts the inequities in energy markets, and the need to provide reliable, accessible energy to all.Recent advances in technology have made traditional energy market structures ripe for disruption. From rapidly declining costs for renewable power and energy storage to the revolution in unconventional oil and natural gas production, the energy industry is today in the midst of profound change that could have long-term implications for climate change, energy access, and global economic growth. Properly structured markets are the most efficient way to reduce emissions and pollution, unleash the promise of advanced energy technologies, and improve energy access and reliability at the lowest cost.

EPIC’s research is uncovering the structures and policy approaches that allow markets to realize their full potential. This includes exploring the costs and benefits of fossil fuels and renewable energy. It also means to analyzing the effectiveness of policies geared toward conserving energy, improving the electric power system and taking carbon out of the transportation system.

Topics:

Associated Scholars

EPIC Scholar

Fiona Burlig

Assistant Professor, Harris School of Public Policy
Visiting & Non-Resident Scholars

Steve Cicala

Associate Professor of Economics, Tufts University; Non-Resident Scholar, EPIC

Thomas Covert

Scientific Director, University of Chicago Energy and Environment Lab
Scholar

Michael Greenstone

Founding Director, Institute for Climate and Sustainable Growth; Director, EPIC
EPIC Scholar

Lars Peter Hansen

David Rockefeller Distinguished Service Professor in Economics, Statistics, Booth School of Business, and The College
EPIC Scholar

Ali Hortaçsu

Ralph and Mary Otis Isham Professor of Economics, Department of Economics
EPIC Scholar

Koichiro Ito

Professor, Harris School of Public Policy
Scholar

Ryan Kellogg

Ralph and Mary Otis Isham Professor and Deputy Dean for Academic Programs, Harris School of Public Policy; Executive Committee, Climate Systems Engineering initiative
EPIC Scholar

Hyuk-soo Kwon

Assistant Professor, Harris School of Public Policy
EPIC Scholar

Christian Leuz

Charles F. Pohl Distinguished Service Professor of Accounting and Finance at the University of Chicago's Booth School of Business