Hans-Erik (Hasse) Edsand completed his PhD degree with UNU-MERIT in 2017. He holds an MSc in Development Studies from the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), University of London. He also studied applied economics at Johns Hopkins University, including classes in microeconomic theory and policy, statistics and econometrics.

Through the lens of a system approach, his thesis analysed a wide set of determinants (blocking and driving) of technological transitions, with a special focus on Renewable Energy Technologies (RETs) adoption in developing countries. Through a compilation of empirical and conceptual research papers, the thesis aimed to contribute to the understanding of technological change in developing countries, while improving the breadth of analysis and policy options for tackling slow diffusion of RETs.

Other activities at UNU-MERIT during the PhD (2012-2017) have been the co-development and coordination of a short educational program (Evidence-Based Research Policy Research Methods (EPRM)), including in-class teaching and online tutoring of qualitative methods.

Prior to joining the PhD program at UNU-MERIT, Hasse worked with policy research and implementation of education, health and social protection projects in developing countries at the World Bank and Inter-American Development Bank.

Selected publications by Hans-Erik Edsand