Analysing controversies in energy policy: assessing the evidence for rebound effects and global oil depletion
Sorrelll, Steve
Date: 22 March 2012
Thesis or dissertation
Publisher
University of Exeter
Degree Title
PhD by Publication in Human Geography
Abstract
This thesis is submitted as a PhD by Publication. Part A provides an overview of the thesis and
summarises its context, research questions, methodological approach and key findings. Part B
is a collection of nine, first-named academic papers.
The thesis addresses two highly complex and controversial questions within energy policy,
namely ...
This thesis is submitted as a PhD by Publication. Part A provides an overview of the thesis and
summarises its context, research questions, methodological approach and key findings. Part B
is a collection of nine, first-named academic papers.
The thesis addresses two highly complex and controversial questions within energy policy,
namely the nature and magnitude of ‘rebound effects’ from energy efficiency improvements
and the extent and rate of depletion of global oil resources. Both of these questions are
critically important to the development of a sustainable energy system and both are the
subject of long-standing and highly polarised disputes. The thesis adapts, develops and applies
a common methodology for reviewing the evidence on these questions, supplements this with
original primary research and syntheses the results in a way that improves understanding and
provides new insights.
The thesis includes four papers examining different aspects of rebound effects and four
examining different aspects of global oil depletion. Given the complexity of the chosen topics,
the papers cover a wide range of questions, issues and approaches. Collectively the papers:
clarify relevant definitional and conceptual issues; evaluate competing methodological and
analytical techniques; appraise the methodological quality of empirical studies; identify levels
of uncertainty and potential sources of bias; develop simple mathematical models; conduct
statistical analyses of primary data; compare and evaluate the results of modelling studies; and
synthesise results from multiple research areas to provide novel insights into poorly
understood phenomena. A ninth paper evaluates the strengths and limitations of systematic
review techniques when applied to complex, policy-relevant questions such as these.
The thesis draws two main conclusions. First, rebound effects are frequently large and can
substantially reduce the energy and carbon savings achieved from improved energy efficiency.
Second, there is a significant risk that the global production of conventional oil will enter
sustained decline before 2020. These conclusions run counter to conventional wisdom and
have significant implications for public policy. The thesis also shows how the methodology of
systematic reviews can be adapted and modified to make a valuable contribution to energy
and climate policy research.
Doctoral Theses
Doctoral College
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