MEC5888 - Renewable energy systems - 2019

This unit examines the thermodynamics of renewable energy systems (principally solar, wind, tidal, hydro, biomass and variants of these); their efficiency; the design of such systems and their selection for differing environments around the globe; reliability of the energy source; trends in renewable energy systems; and the associated environmental and economic factors. The unit also examines the regulatory environment as a predictor for the uptake of renewable energy systems.

At the successful completion of this unit you will be able to:

1. Analyse and compare the efficiencies of current and research renewable energy systems
2. Design a renewable energy system for different sites in Australia and around the world based on renewable energy resource maps and predict the energy output from the system.
3. Predict the trends in development and deployment of renewable energy systems in terms of the regulatory, economic, and social environment.
4. Engage in regular self-assessment and peer-assessment of individual and team performance as a primary means of tracking continuing professional development.

NOTE: From 1 July 2019, the duration of all exams is changing to combine reading and writing time. The new exam duration for this unit is 2 hours and 10 minutes.

Continuous assessment: 50%

Examination (2 hours): 50%

Students are required to achieve at least 45% in the total continuous assessment component and at least 45% in the final examination component and an overall mark of 50% to achieve a pass grade in the unit. Students failing to achieve this requirement will be given a maximum of 45% in the unit.

3 hours lectures/workshops, 2 hours practical classes and 7 hours of private study per week.

See also Unit timetable information

Mechanical Engineering