The Global Energy Markets Series

The Gas Troika on the European Gas Market assesses the energy policy of the Gas Troika Organization (GTO) as an entity and its members, Russia, Iran and Qatar, operating in the European gas market (EGM) between 2008 and 2015. The book focuses on their interests, policies and frameworks, and the enabling and constraining factors they encounter in the European market.

The energy policies of the GTO members are discussed in the context of extraction and distribution of natural gas, its export to the European countries and the environmental side-effects of these contracts. The important questions examined in this pioneering study are:

• How do the GTO members develop their interests and energy policies in the European environment?
• How do the common interests and policies of the GTO members explain the framework of the organization in the EGM?
• How is this organization perceived and assessed as a semi-coherent regional entity?

The book applies a social structuration theoretical framework with respect to geographical resources, economy, international relations and environmental dimensions to provide a multi-disciplinary assessment. Researchers in energy economics and political sciences, as well as energy analysts and consultants will find this book to be extremely beneficial.

This book examines business model transformation through the study of electrical utilities, an industry at the center of today’s efforts to combat climate change. When change comes to the business model of such a mature industry, the pattern is often recognizable. The foundational elements of the industry shift, allowing the innovation of business models by new competitors, while established firms face the threat of disruption. The utility sector, after decades of relative stability, is in the midst of such a transformation today.

After providing a historical summary of the dominant business models of the utility sector, Transformation of the Electric Utility Business Model looks at the factors currently impacting the industry. Utilities and policy makers today are facing two long-term issues that will dominate their agendas in the coming decades: rebuilding utility infrastructure to enable the decarbonization of the economy, and managing the risk of catastrophic events that can leave large areas without power for extended periods. Fortunately, with proper planning, many utility investments in decarbonization will also support risk management. However, these investments are often not compatible with current utility business models, requiring creativity and new regulatory frameworks to successfully implement. This book considers the impact of these factors, and then discusses the future.

This well-researched, extremely insightful book is essential reading for all those with an interest in business strategy, energy studies and sustainability.