436-466 Renewable Energy

436-351 Thermofluids 2 or equivalent

Upon completion students should understand the distribution and variability of the wind as an energy source, and the limitations of wind energy devices in harnessing this energy; and have developed a comprehension of wind turbine design parameters and skill in performance estimation and component design for a range of applications. Students should also understand the distribution of solar energy and the limitations that this places on the performance of solar energy systems; and comprehend the importance of materials and losses in the systems performance and have knowledge and skill in solar systems selection and design methods.

Topics covered include a selection from nature and availability of wind energy; wind turbines, classification, construction and control; performance evaluation methods; power, efficiency, reliability and cost; load matching; nature and availability of solar radiation; radiation estimations and measuring instruments; materials for solar energy utilisation, radiative properties and thermal transport properties; introduction to non-concentrating collectors, design techniques and performance estimation; solar component and solar system operational characteristics; practical applications of solar energy, special solar devices for developing countries; and desalination, photovoltaics and solar water pumping.

• ability to apply knowledge of basic science and engineering fundamentals

• ability to communicate effectively, not only with engineers but also with the community at large

• ability to undertake problem identification, formulation and solution

• ability to utilise a systems approach to design and operational performance

• ability to function effectively as an individual and in multi-disciplinary and multi-cultural teams, with the capacity to be a leader or manager as well as an effective team member

• understanding of the social, cultural, global and environmental responsibilities of the professional engineer, and the need for sustainable development

• understanding of the principles of sustainable design and development

• understanding of professional and ethical responsibilities and commitment to them

• expectation of the need to undertake lifelong learning, capacity to do so

• capacity for independent critical thought, rational inquiry and self-directed learning

• intellectual curiosity and creativity, including understanding of the philosophical and methodological bases of research activity

• openness to new ideas and unconventional critiques of received wisdom

• profound respect for truth and intellectual integrity, and for the ethics of scholarship

• international awareness and openness to the world, based on understanding and appreciation of social and cultural diversity and respect for individual human rights and dignity

One 3-hour examination (60%) and practical work not exceeding 20 pages including computations, diagrams, tables and computer output. Each student will make a 10 minute oral presentation on the subject of his or her practical work near the end of the semester (40%).