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Module Specifications

Archived Version 2018 - 2019

Module Title
Module Code
School

Online Module Resources

NFQ level 9 Credit Rating 15
Pre-requisite None
Co-requisite None
Compatibles None
Incompatibles None
Description

The overall aim of this module is to provide the learner with an understanding of the challenges involved in the management of companies in the clean technology sector (Cleantech) specifically, Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency, Water Treatment/Management, Waste Management and Renewables. The specific aims are to enable learners to: • Develop a deeper understanding of the opportunities and challenges involved in the development and management of waste and resources, tailored to specific sectoral needs. • Obtain an in-depth knowledge of the key challenges in the management of renewable energy and energy efficiency. This will cover strategies and technology for resource management, technological trends and challenges, security of supply, quantitative analysis of resource economics. • Demonstrate an understanding of the importance of water treatment and management and to apply this knowledge to their organisations. • Evaluate the broader link between the exploitation of waste, water and energy resources and the environment

Learning Outcomes

1. Identify and define key waste management methodologies; compare and contrast key methodologies against the practice within their workplace.
2. Demonstrate an ability to use an environmental tool such as life cycle assessment, waste audit or a benchmarking exercise to reduce waste generation within their organisation
3. Develop a critical awareness of emerging technological and market trends, enabling them develop a strategic roadmap for water sustainability for their organisation.
4. Critically evaluate the key issues in the production, management, and usage of water and to communicate the outcomes effectively.
5. Calculate conversion efficiencies of power conversion processes
6. Critcally assess Wind, Solar, Ocean, Geothermal, Hydro and Bio Energy system performance and design
7. Perform a quantitative analysis of the costs of renewable energy projects
8. Evaluate the political, legislative, commercial and investment trends and developments in renewable energy technology
9. Critically appraise life cycle assessment tools for use in waste, energy and water management, evaluate appropriateness of use and communicate the outcome effectively.
10. Demonstrate an in depth understanding of the interdependencies of their organisation between energy, waste and water resources on the one hand and the environment on the other hand.



Workload Full-time hours per semester
Type Hours Description
Tutorial10Loop Classes
Online activity45Online discussion
Assignment Completion150Assignments preparation - 3 assignments
Independent Study170Studying texts, reading articles, learning course materials
Total Workload: 375

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

Energy Technology
Fundamental Energy Concepts, Energy Conversion Processes, Storage Technologies, Energy Efficiency

Energy Systems
Renewable energy system design. Analysis of solar, wind, biomass, ocean energy devices

Energy Economics
Investment Trends in Renewable Technologies, Economic Payback Modelling and Quantitative Analysis, Global Energy Resources

Waste Management and renewables
Background, policies and directives, Waste Streams & Waste Audits, Approaches to Waste Management, Waste Management Technologies, Life Cycle approaches and tools, Self Regulation, Environmental Management Systems & Audit

Water Management and Treatment
Global Water Crisis, Water Framework Directive, Water Cycle and Quality, Water Consumption and Footprint, Water conservation, Water purification systems

Assessment Breakdown
Continuous Assessment% Examination Weight%
Course Work Breakdown
TypeDescription% of totalAssessment Date
Reassessment Requirement
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories;
1 = A resit is available for all components of the module
2 = No resit is available for 100% continuous assessment module
3 = No resit is available for the continuous assessment component
Unavailable
Indicative Reading List

  • Paul T. Williams: 2005, Waste treatment and disposal, J. Wiley & Sons, Hoboken, N.J., 9780470849132
  • MacKay David: 2012, Sustainable Energy Without the Hot Air, UIT Cambridge Ltd,
  • Ayres & Ayres: 2010, Crossing the Energy Divide: Moving from Fossil Fuel Dependence to a Clean-Energy Future,, 1/E, Pearson,
  • Nathanson, J.A. and Schneider, R.A.: 2015, Basic environmental technology: water supply, waste management, and pollution control., 6th Edition, Prentice Hal, 9780132840149
Other Resources

None
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