Supply Chain Management

SCM 4302

Energy Supply Chain

Global Integration

Course Overview

SCM 4302 offers a comprehensive exploration of the global energy supply chain, focusing on the complex networks that move energy from source to consumer. Leveraging Houston’s position as the energy capital of the world, this course provides students with unparalleled access to industry expertise and real-world insights. Students will examine the operational, regulatory, and strategic dimensions of energy supply chains across oil, natural gas, and electric power sectors, with a focus on sustainability, governance, and innovation.

Course Purpose

This course prepares students to understand and navigate the intricacies of energy supply chains in a global context. Students will analyze how energy is sourced, transformed, transported, and delivered, while also exploring the financial, environmental, and geopolitical factors that shape the industry. Emphasis is placed on developing systems thinking, risk awareness, and strategic decision-making skills relevant to one of the world’s most critical and dynamic industries.

Learning Objectives

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

• Identify and explain the structure and function of key segments within the energy supply chain.
• Analyze how value is created and captured across different energy sub-sectors.
• Evaluate the impact of regulatory, environmental, and social governance (ESG) considerations on energy operations.
• Interpret and forecast energy supply and demand trends using historical and real-time data.
• Assess the strategic implications of infrastructure, technology, and policy on global energy flows.

Selection of Topics Covered

• Crude Oil: Geology, Exploration, Production, and Refining
• Natural Gas: Shale, LNG, GTL, and Distribution Networks
• Electric Power Generation, Transmission, and Regulation
• Pipeline Infrastructure and International Logistics
• Energy Economics and Business Models
• ESG and Sustainability in Energy Operations
• Biofuels, Petrochemicals, and Emerging Energy Technologies
• Global Energy Supply and Demand Forecasting
• Governance, Risk, and Compliance in Energy Markets
• Strategic Challenges in Energy Transition and Decarbonization

Course Pedagogy and Experiential Activities

SCM 4302 integrates real-world learning through:

• Guest lectures from senior energy professionals, offering firsthand insights into current challenges and innovations.
• Mini case studies that develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills in complex, evolving scenarios.
• A large-scale group project where students analyze a real-world energy supply chain issue and propose strategic solutions, incorporating environmental, financial, and operational perspectives.

Students are encouraged to think holistically and globally, considering the interdependencies between supply chain functions, regulatory frameworks, and market dynamics.

Course Format and Assessment

Students engage with course content through lectures, curated readings, industry presentations, and collaborative projects. Assessment is based on:

• Homework assignments and quizzes that reinforce foundational knowledge
• A major group project and written report that demonstrate applied strategic thinking
• Active participation in class discussions and guest speaker sessions