Overview

The module briefly examines current energy resources, use, efficiency and policy. The course then looks at 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 course also includes visiting speakers covering renewable energy technologies and their application.

Learning Outcomes

• An understanding of current energy resources, use and 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 a 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 of systems and technologies involved with renewable energy capture and storage.

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