Is decarbonization achievable? : essays on the economics of the energy transition.

Summary This thesis investigates the conditions for the realization of a decarbonized and sustainable industrial civilization, by studying some aspects of its physical feasibility and political acceptability. Chapter 1 studies the evolution of the energy rate of return in different prospective scenarios, and predicts that the overall efficiency of the electricity sector to provide surplus energy would be halved in a 100% renewable scenario. Chapter 2 highlights the importance of metal recyclability in a model of optimal metal and fossil extraction for energy production. The appendix to Chapter 2 extends the Karush-Kuhn-Tucker theorem to the case of a convex series under a finite number of constraints. Chapters 3 and 4 are based on a survey of a representative sample of three thousand French people, conducted during the Gilets jaunes movement. Chapter 3 examines beliefs about a carbon tax with dividend, a measure touted to combat climate change because of its efficiency and progressivity. If 70% reject the tax with dividend, it is because of pessimistic perceptions about its properties: in contradiction with the micro-simulations carried out, most believe that their household would lose purchasing power as a result of the reform, and perceive it as regressive and ineffective in reducing pollution and fighting climate change. Chapter 4 analyzes knowledge, perceptions, and values related to climate change, examines opinions about carbon taxation, and assesses support for other climate policies.