The required transition to a low-carbon economy because of climate change calls for the sustainable re-infrastructuring of our power/energy generation industry, with many low-carbon generation technologies having already shaped the power generation sector while new technologies and proofs of concept keep emerging all the time. This module aims to enable students to acquire the detailed knowledge and understanding of modern power generation systems, new and emerging low-carbon generation technologies/concepts, and carbon abatement technologies varying from energy efficiency measures, fuel switching to carbon capture & storage (CCS) technologies etc.
Summary of content:
The physical science behind climate change & low-carbon transitioning of power and energy industry Modern power generation systems (conventional and renewable generation (conventional and non-conventional renewable), and new and emerging generation technologies/concepts. Advanced combustion technologies and thermodynamic cycles for energy efficiency in power generation Carbon abatement technologies for decarbonising power generation, including energy efficiency measures, fuel switching, and carbon capture and storage (CCS) encompassing CO2 capture, compression, pipeline transportation, and geological storage and related legal, financial and environmental aspects. Zero/negative-carbon emission power generation technologies/concepts Economic, societal, safety and ethical considerations.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the module students should be able to:
Acquire a detailed knowledge and understanding of modern power generation systems and new and emerging generation technologies/concepts from using conventional and non-conventional renewable energy sources (e.g., bioenergy, solar, wind, geothermal etc.).
Have a detailed knowledge and understanding of carbon abatement technologies and underlying chemical and physical principles for decarbonisation of power generation, including energy efficiency measures, fuel switching, and carbon capture and storage (CCS). The latter comprises CO2 capture, compression, pipeline transportation, and geological storage and related legal, financial, environmental, safety and regulation aspects.
Demonstrate a clear understanding of efficient combustion systems and related multi-pollutants control and thermodynamic cycles for energy efficiency in power generation.
Gain broad knowledge and critical awareness of developments in decarbonised fuel energy systems.
Apply skills to analyse and critically evaluate the sustainability, economic, societal and ethical aspects of low-carbon power and energy generation technologies/systems.
