Aims and Fit of Module

• To provide the theoretical understanding required to design suitable energy conversion devices suitable for exploiting wind, both on and offshore, hydropower, tidal, ocean wave and marine currents and to be able to site such devices based on knowledge of local oceanographic and meteorological data.

• To provide the theoretical understanding required to design suitable energy conversion devices suitable for exploiting solar energy.


• To provide the theoretical understanding required to design suitable energy conversion devices suitable for exploiting biomass and biofuels.


• To gain the understanding of the practical limitations imposed by structural loadings and responses on such devices.


• To enable students to analyze environmental and social impacts of energy conversion and use when taking into account the limited natural resources and climate changes. This includes understanding the background for various sustainable development for a specific energy technologies (focus on wind and sun) and comparison with fossil/nuclear energy technologies in specific socio-ecological contexts

Learning outcomes

A. Master the physical principles in extracting usable energy from solar, wind, hydropower, wave and marine current and the dynamics relevant to energy extraction; 


B. Analyse and compare the performance of various renewable energy technologies;



C. Gain critical insight into the factors for site selection of renewable energy and key considerations for installation, maintenance, operational control and eventual decommissioning;


D. Gain the principles of life cycle assessment and critical application of results from such assessments to evaluate key components of renewable energy systems;



E. Critically appreciate the complexities associated with the potential environmental impact of a renewable energy system on noise, visual intrusion, marine life as well as safety of shipping;


F. Apply their knowledge and skills in resolving the specified research and design problems;



G. Design a sustainable development for a specific geographical area with focus on heat, power, transport and food requirements;


H. Perform assessments of sustainable development based on system thinking.

Method of teaching and learning

This module will be delivered through a combination of formal lectures, tutorials and supervised laboratory sessions.