Module Catalogue 2024/25

Pre Requisite Comment

N/A

Co Requisite Comment

N/A

Aims

Energy networks are key enablers of the transition to net zero. This module focusses on the integration of renewable power generation and low-carbon technologies into electricity networks, supported by other energy vectors such as gas, heat, and hydrogen.

Outline Of Syllabus

Net-zero energy systems will primarily be powered using renewable energy sources such as wind and solar. Students will be taught the physical basis for the operation of renewable energy technologies; how to quantify the available resources; and how these technologies are integrated into energy networks.



Electricity networks are expected to be the key enablers of a net-zero energy system. Consequently, the module will cover the operating principles of three-phase transmission and distribution networks. Students will learn how to represent these networks mathematically and carry out a range of calculations which can quantify the limitations of these networks for enabling the integration of renewable power generators and low-carbon technologies (such as electric vehicles and heat pumps).



Net-zero energy networks will need to operate in a smart, flexible way to ensure that renewable energy is utilised effectively and that low carbon technologies can be accommodated without replacing or upgrading existing energy infrastructure. The module will cover methods and technologies which can accommodate this, including energy storage, demand side response, and active network management. The module will also cover the broader societal and economic context, including quantifying the costs of renewable energy projects and their environmental impacts and benefits.

Intended Knowledge Outcomes

The mapping of certain AHEPv4 learning outcomes to each intended knowledge outcome is indicated in each point. Having completed the module, students will be able to:

Appraise the benefits and challenges associated with renewable energy technologies, including aspects related to environmental sustainability (M7).

Quantify the energy available from specific renewable energy resources at a given site and demonstrate how a renewable energy project can be designed to exploit that resource (M3, M5).

Understand the principles of operation of electrical power networks, including synchronous generators and network protection, and perform analyse them in both transient and steady-state conditions (M1, M2, M3).

Understand how renewable electricity generation can increase risk within electricity networks and of the technologies and techniques which can be used to mitigate that risk (M9)

Use appropriate techno-economic methods to solve energy network problems (M1, M2, M3)

Intended Skill Outcomes

The mapping of certain AHEPv4 learning outcomes to each intended knowledge outcome is indicated in each point. Having completed the module, students will be able to:

Critically analyse technical literature (M4)

Form an engineering argument and present engineering concepts (M17)

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

The lectures contain a mixture of conventional delivery and in-class problem solving and group work. Through this combined approach, students will be able to better understand and apply the concepts of energy systems. Tutorials provide students with the opportunity to apply knowledge and confirm the taught concepts.



Self Directed Learning exercises provide students with the opportunity to explore complex problem based learning exercises. Self-Directed- Learning exercises also typically align with the expectations of the examination.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The assessment reflects the innovative combined teaching style and consists of a CW in semester 1 (25%) and a closed book exam in semester 2 (75%).



The assessment requires students to have a formal knowledge of the basic principles of energy systems.

The formative assessments will expose students to a range of real world problems relevant to the learning outcomes and the questions asked in the final exam.

General Notes

N/A