Mar 28, 2024  
2019-2020 Undergraduate Academic Catalog 
    
2019-2020 Undergraduate Academic Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Add to Portfolio (opens a new window)

ME 4805 - Renewable Energy Utilization

3 lecture hours 0 lab hours 3 credits
Course Description
This course focuses on the primary renewable energy technologies. Engineering design, thermodynamic performance, environmental impacts, and economic considerations are included in the analysis of renewable energy systems. System types include solar photovoltaic panels, solar thermal technology, biofuel technology, and wind energy. A comparative analysis of energy storage systems is also covered. (prereq: ME 2101  or equivalent and ME 3104  or equivalent)
Course Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:
  • Appreciate the challenges facing world energy supply and use
  • Predict the solar energy resource at any location on earth
  • Develop an understanding of the science of photovoltaic devices and solar thermal systems
  • Apply engineering design principles to solar power generation installations
  • Perform economic analysis of solar power systems
  • Analyze the energy potential of biofuels, the technology of biofuels production, and the economic advantages and disadvantages of energy from biomass
  • Develop an understanding of the science and engineering of wind energy systems
  • Appreciate the engineering necessity and comparable performance of storage systems for renewable energy

Prerequisites by Topic
  • Classical thermodynamics (energy balances)

Course Topics
  • World and US energy picture
  • The solar resource
  • Solar photovoltaic systems
  • Solar thermal systems
  • Energy from biomass
  • Wind resources
  • Wind turbine performance prediction
  • Simulation tools for solar energy simulation

Coordinator
Dr. Christopher Damm



Add to Portfolio (opens a new window)