Module Catalogue 2024/25

Pre Requisite Comment

N/A

Co Requisite Comment

Non-native speakers of English whose current level of attainment is less than UELA 70 or IELTS 7.0 (or recognised equivalent) in all four aspects of communication (Listening, Speaking, Reading, Writing) should be attending the non- credit-bearing in-sessional English language support classes provided by the University.

Aims

The aim of this module is to enable students studying Renewable Energy, Enterprise and Management to understand the role of the subsurface in the energy system. To understand how the post-industrial revolution energy supply has been met largely by the exploitation of fossil fuel energy from the Earth (coal, oil, gas). To explore the potential of renewable energy sources derived from the Earth's subsurface. To understand and evaluate energy storage methods in the subsurface for sustainable energy utilization. To examine the principles and applications of carbon capture in the subsurface for mitigating greenhouse gas emissions.

Outline Of Syllabus

Key geological concepts:
Geological time
The origin of the Earth, Earth structure and plate tectonics
Distribution of geological resources
Sedimentary basin evolution
Formation of coal, oil and gas.
Principle methods of exploration and exploitation
Lessons learned for future resource exploitation

Impact of Fossil Fuels on Global Emissions:
Fundamentals of climate change
Greenhouse gases and greenhouse effect
Future consumption scenarios – controls, options and consequences
Example IPCC emissions scenarios

Deep and shallow geothermal energy:
Geothermal electricity production
Geothermal heating (direct use)
Ground source heat pumps

Nuclear energy:
Nuclear fission
Nuclear fusion
Fundamentals of geological disposal of nuclear waste

The role of the subsurface in future energy systems:
Energy storage and hydrogen storage
Carbon Capture and Storage
Critical minerals to achieve net-zero

Intended Knowledge Outcomes

On successful completion of this module, students will:

1. Understand the geological conditions necessary for the formation of coal, oil and gas deposits.

2. Be aware of the resources and reserves of these fuels, and of their global consumption.

3. Understand the impact of fossil fuels on the global climate.

4. Describe various renewable energy sources available from the Earth's subsurface, including geothermal and
other subsurface-based technologies.

5. Understand different subsurface energy storage methods, such as pumped hydro storage, compressed air energy
storage, and thermal energy storage.

6. Explain the principles of carbon capture and storage in the subsurface, including the types of geological
formations suitable for CCS.

Intended Skill Outcomes

On successful completion of this module, students will:

1. Be able to critically research and evaluate an energy related topic and report on its outcome.

2. Be able to evaluate the utility and impact of renewable energy technologies taught in this and other modules,
against conventional and unconventional fossil fuels.

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

Just prior to the course students will have access to a summary of the topics which this module covers, directions to reading on each topic, copies of lecture notes that will be presented in the module and a specification for the assessed research and presentation exercise. Students can then familiarize themselves with the module curriculum through reading and reflection on these materials. Lectures will be delivered during the formal teaching period which will reinforce students’ independent learning and allow opportunities for areas of uncertainty to be clarified in follow up tutorials.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The assessments allow students to demonstrate their knowledge, understanding and skills in format that is applicable in their potential future career paths. The reflective component is added to ensure teams work efficiently.

General Notes

N/A