Smart Energy Systems and renewable energy technologies are the study and application of new decarbonised clean energy technologies. This module provides an overview of the fundamental principles of Smart Energy Systems and renewable energy technologies which are critical for achieving a sustainable and decarbonized energy future. You will gain in-depth knowledge of various renewable sources, including solar photovoltaics, wind, hydropower, geothermal, bioenergy, and emerging technologies as well as their integration into intelligent and optimised energy systems. Then you will study the design principles, components, and operation of smart energy systems, which integrate and intelligently control diverse energy assets, such as renewable generation, energy storage, heat networks, and electric vehicle charging infrastructure, to optimise energy efficiency and deliver value to communities. You will also assess the technical, economic, environmental, and social aspects of these technologies throughout their lifecycle through exploration of the policy frameworks, regulatory environments and socio-economic factors.
Smart Energy Systems and renewable energy technologies form the future of sustainable energy exploration. Understanding these energy systems will foster critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and the capacity to propose innovative, interdisciplinary solutions that address the multifaceted challenges of transitioning towards a sustainable energy future.
40 (Lectures 24, Workshop 6, Tutorial 8, Revision class 2)
Summer Term
Essay worth 30%
Presentation worth 20%
Examination worth 50%
On successfully completing the module, students will be able to:
1) Critically evaluate the principles, designs and contextual suitability of renewable energy technologies and Smart Energy Systems.
2) Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the technical, economic, environmental and social considerations in implementing renewable energy systems.
3)Apply advanced analytical techniques to size, optimize, model and assess the performance of renewable energy systems solutions.
4)Synthesise interdisciplinary knowledge to propose innovative solutions for integrating renewable energy sources and addressing challenges in smart energy implementation.
5) Appraise the policy, regulatory, and socio-economic factors influencing the adoption and deployment of smart renewable energy technologies at various scales.
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