Aims

The aims of this module are to provide students with a systematic knowledge and understanding of practical aspects key to the design of:
•       Photovoltaic systems
•       Geothermal energy

Students will learn about
• The fundamental technology associated with the design of photovoltaic systems including semi-conductor physics, cells and modules.

• The design and installation of the different types of ground source heat system and scoping for geothermal energy systems.

Outline Of Syllabus

This module addresses the technology associated with photovoltaic systems covering:
•       Enabling technology of semi conductors (theory, device operation, processing and fabrication techniques)
•       Cells (design, manufacture and performance)
•       Modules (design, manufacture and performance)
And
The technology associated with geothermal energy systems covering:
•       Deep geothermal energy (theory, site selection, power plant type)
•       Ground source heat (heat pumps, drilling, design, site selection, licensing.)

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

Knowledge and understanding of photovoltaic technology & geothermal energy will be taught via formal lectures and guided independent study material. It will be supported by practical sessions using case studies, small group teaching, a visit to an installation or laboratory demonstration and guest speakers during the intensive school.
Subject specific, cognitive and communication skills will also be developed during the formal lectures, small group teaching and guided independent study material. Time management and IT skills will largely be developed during the guided independent study material (including the assignment).

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The 20 hour post school assignment will provide students with the opportunity to develop, demonstrate and deepen their knowledge and understanding of Photovoltaics or Geothermal Energy by means of a literature review. Students may choose either subject area. This knowledge and understanding will be assessed initially via the unseen written examination.

Subject specific, cognitive and communication skills will also be assessed through both the written examination and assignments. The other key skills will not be assessed but students will need to utilise these skills in order to access the self guided material and prepare assignments.

In order to pass the module, students must attain a minimum of 40 in each component of assessment. Failure to reach 40 in each component will result in a module mark no greater than 49. This rule has been introduced as an accreditation requirement on the Reflex or REEM programmes.