Accelerating the energy transition

Why This Elective Matters’

The shift from fossil fuels to renewable and low-carbon energy is one of the defining challenges of our time. Recent years have been the warmest on record, and the urgency of limiting global warming is reshaping how organisations plan, operate and invest. This elective helps learners understand the energy transition in depth, building the confidence to engage with its implications for operations, strategy and sustainability.

  • Learners explore what the energy transition means in practice - covering different types of sustainable energy, the environmental case for shifting away from fossil fuels and the economic and social opportunities the transition creates. The elective examines how the energy grid operates, from generation and transmission through to distribution and end-user consumption, and the challenges of integrating renewable energy sources. UK-specific pressures - including geographic imbalance, transmission constraints and cost implications - are explored alongside how organisations interact with the grid through procurement, demand management and onsite generation. Business implications are examined, including energy cost and security, consumer expectations and renewable Power Purchase Agreements. The concept of the Just Transition is introduced, alongside relevant policy context and emerging developments such as Great British Energy.

  • Learners reflect on their own organisation’s relationship with energy, exploring how current and future energy use connects to sustainability goals and business strategy. Practical examples support understanding of organisational approaches to energy transition.

  • Learners will gain confidence in discussing the energy transition in an organisational, environmental and policy context. They will understand how proactive energy strategies support risk management, compliance and long-term resilience.

  • This elective is valuable for learners involved in operations, facilities, procurement, finance, strategy or sustainability roles.