Research
CIEP research is characterised by:
1. An energy focus
Although CIEP deals with a range of issues such as environmental problems, security issues and development problems, the starting point is always energy related. Problems within producing countries are therefore included in CIEP research, whereas providing access to energy to the poor is a side issue, falling more within the remit of development issues rather than being energy related per se.
2. An integrated view
CIEP identifies three main pillars of energy policy - the environment, market regimes and security of energy supply. In its research and activities CIEP locates specific topics within the wider context of these three pillars.
3. An international and geopolitical perspective
Energy issues are globally interlinked. CIEP therefore considers energy issues using an international and geopolitical approach. For example, issues concerning security of energy supply are closely connected to geopolitical developments. Also opportunities at the global level to decrease worldwide CO2 emissions are largely defined by geopolitical manoeuvring of the major actors.
4. The assumption that 'energy is politics'
This assumption is included as a specification of the CIEP focus. CIEP studies the implementation of new market regimes, but does not focus on the corresponding legislation as such; likewise, CIEP is interested in new energy technology, but does not research these technologies as such.
5. Pre-competitive knowledge
CIEP studies the broader issues in the energy sector and their consequences. This knowledge is relevant to a range of stakeholders, including the private sector. However, interpretation of these findings to benefit the business strategy of particular companies is not the purpose of the CIEP research agenda.