Preface

This book reflects over 25 years of research into the geopolitics of energy.My aim is threefold: first, to introduce a frameworkthe Messy Mix -to help navigate the complex geopolitical challenges posed by the transformation of the global energy system.Second, to serve as a bridge connecting the work of international organizations, business, think tanks, the media, and academia.Third, to integrate a wide range of issues from diverse perspectives into a holistic analysis of the geopolitics of energy system transformation.One of my reviewers suggested that I describe the book as a guide, rather than a study or analysis.A dictionary definition of a guide would be a book that gives you the most important information about a particular subject.That is precisely my intent.To aid in this process, this guide is supported by an extensive reference list, and where possible, I have chosen open-access sources.Thanks to funding from Warwick Business School, this guide is available as an open-access PDF and e-Pub.It is also complemented by a website accessible via my WBS webpage (www.wbs.ac.uk/ about/ per son/ mich ael-brads haw/ ).This book is aimed at a wide readership, including academics and students interested in the geopolitics of energy, as well as those in government involved with energy and climate policy, individuals in business seeking to develop strategies to navigate the Messy Mix, and anyone with an interest in the role of energy and geopolitics in addressing climate change.My academic journey has been supported by a wide range of institutions, organizations, and many individuals.Within the limits of this brief preface, it is impossible to name them all.Regarding this particular project, I am particularly grateful to David Elmes at WBS, with whom I teach an MBA module on Managing Sustainable Energy Transitions.Much of my thinking for this guide has been tested on various MBA