It is necessary for engineers to be able to use their technical expertise to design processes and systems that can improve on current practice through implementation of innovative, more efficient designs or yield a step change increase in performance via novel technology.
This module will allow students to use their engineering expertise gained via other modules and their previous experience, supplemented with information from pertinent guest lectures, and apply such to the field of energy system design.
The syllabus will include analysis of the UK energy mix, transmission and distribution from an industrial/government point of view, as opposed from that of the purely theoretical.
Students will ultimately be expected to design a technology pathway to a specific type of energy system for a small conurbation for near-future implementation of policy and infrastructure (5-10 years).
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the module students should be able to:
Design a detailed technical pathway by which a small conurbation could transition to sustainable energy sources.
Describe how local geography, demographics, and legislation can affect the ability of municipalities to adhere to energy-related targets set both by local and national government.
Authoritatively and critically discuss their technical solutions as part of oral presentations that could be delivered to (for example) policymakers.
Communicate complex ideas concisely and succinctly by means of detailed written reports.
