Lester Hunt

Professor Lester Hunt is a Professor of Economics at the University of Portsmouth, affiliated with the School of Accounting, Economics and Finance. He holds a BSc (Hons) in Economics with Econometrics from Loughborough University, an MA from the University of Essex, and a PhD in Economics from the University of Surrey. His research focuses on energy economics, energy policy, and econometrics, with a particular emphasis on Saudi Arabia and Gulf Cooperation Council countries. He has extensive experience in leadership roles, including Head of Economics at Portsmouth and Surrey, and has supervised over 20 PhD students.

His career spans academia and industry, including roles at HM Treasury, Midlands Electricity, and KAPSARC in Saudi Arabia. Key research areas include energy demand modeling, climate policy, and renewable energy drivers. Recent work includes studies on CO₂ baselines, solar PV deployment, and environmental efficiency in OECD countries. He has published over 80 peer-reviewed articles and edited books, contributing to global energy policy discourse.

Professor Hunt’s expertise is further highlighted through his editorial role at The Energy Journal and his involvement in initiatives like the Centre for Blue Governance. His research combines theoretical econometric models with practical policy analysis, addressing critical issues such as energy transition and sustainability.