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Wednesday, 26 November, 2025
Dali Tsintskiladze Laxton: Essays in Energy Economics
Dissertation Committee:
Krešimir Žigić (CERGE-EI, chair)
Silvester van Koten (CERGE-EI)
Milan Ščasný (Charles University, Environment Center)
Randall K. Filer (The City University of New York)
Defense committee:
Daniel Munich (CERGE-EI, chair)
Sebastian Ottinger (CERGE-EI)
Inna Čábelková (Czech University of Life Sciences Prague)
Meeting link:
https://cerge-ei.webex.com/cerge-ei/j.php?MTID=m36f6b89a31cfc47822025d4ec889c4f1
Meeting number: 2744 659 7108
Meeting password: 276364
Abstract:
This dissertation explores strategies to support a sustainable energy transition, focusing on the economic, technological, and ecological challenges of decarbonization. While fossil fuels remain cheaper in the short term, renewable energy technologies offer long-term advantages through lower emissions and innovation-driven cost reductions. The three chapters provide complementary insights from technological, system-level, and macroeconomic perspectives.
The first paper introduces a new engineering-based method to measure innovation in wind energy. It isolates material-based costs to assess learning over time. It shows that onshore wind may become cost-competitive without subsidies under continued technological progress.
The second paper examines the role of biomass in decarbonization using a spatially disaggregated TIMES-CZ model. It incorporates ecological constraints, including bark beetle infestations, to evaluate biomass availability and identify the least-cost renewable energy pathways for the Czech Republic.
The third paper analyzes the macroeconomic implications of oil price shocks, emphasizing the need for expert-level thinking when interpreting market dynamics. Despite a growing shift to cleaner energy, oil remains crucial, and its price fluctuations continue to have significant macroeconomic impacts. A realistic approach is needed to navigate the complexities of oil price dynamics and their broader economic consequences.
Together, the papers offer practical tools and insights for designing resilient, innovation-focused energy policies that are aligned with climate goals.
Full Text: "Essays in Energy Economics"
