Overview

The first part of the module briefly examines current energy resources, use, efficiency and policy. The course examines alternative renewable resources for fossil fuels involving combustion technologies (e.g. biomass) and non-combustion technologies (e.g. wind, solar PV, solar thermal, heat pump technologies, hydro, wave and tidal) along with associated issues of energy storage and distribution. The course includes a field trip to smaller scale generation projects at a National Trust site, Hafod y Llan. The conclusion of the course is conference with visiting speakers covering renewable energy technologies and their application.

Learning Outcomes

• An understanding of current energy resources, use and energy conservation measures, embedded in policy.

• Demonstrate an ability to synthesize the key elements of complex renewable technologies and present them in the form of a briefing paper written for person with responsibility for a National Energy strategy.

• Understand selected renewable energy technologies and their current and potential environmental benefits and costs.

• Understand the range systems and technologies involved with renewable energy capture and storage.

• Understand where each type of technology fits into potential end-uses.