Registry

Module Specifications

Archived Version 2021 - 2022

Module Title	Physics of Renewable Energy
Module Code	PS218
School	School of Physical Sciences
Online Module Resources
Module Co-ordinator	Dr. Lampros Nikolopoulos	Office Number	N140
NFQ level	8	Credit Rating	5
Pre-requisite	None
Co-requisite	None
Compatibles	None
Incompatibles	None

Description

Students will be introduced to the concept of energy and the fundamental physics around it through a range of lectures. These demonstrations will also introduce the concepts of energy storage, efficiency, conversion and sustainability. An overview is given of issues surrounding sustainable energy for future generations. In particular, emphasis of the background physics is given of solar cells, wind power and fuel cell technology and their applications as well.

Learning Outcomes

1. understand and work with general energy concepts such as consevation, transfer and efficiency
2. understand and work with the basic thermodynamic laws of nature
3. explore in deeper detail the physics behind the solar, fuel cell and wind energy resources
4. review the current status of the renewable energy technology

*Type*	*Hours*	*Description*
Workload	Full-time hours per semester
Lecture	30	Core Material
Tutorial	6	Problems solutions
Independent Study	89	Study, project work, presentation
Total Workload: 125

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

Electric power
Electric power generation and distribution

Basics of thermodynamics
Application of thermodynamic laws to power production

Fluid mechanics
Essentials of fluid mechanics as applied to power generation

Radiation theory
Application of radiation theory to power generation

Photovoltaic cells
Basic properties and limitations of photovoltaic cells

Fuel cells
The operation of fuel cells for power generation

Wind power
Use of wind power to generate electricity

Storage and distribution of energy
Systems for large scale storage and distribution of energy

Assessment Breakdown
Continuous Assessment	20%	Examination Weight	80%

Type	Description	% of total	Assessment Date
Course Work Breakdown

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

Volker Quaschning: 0, Understanding Renewable Energy Systems,
John Twidell and Tony Weir: 0, Renewable Energy Resources,
Aldo Vieira da Rosa: 0, Fundamentals of Renewable Energy Processes,

Other Resources

None

Programme or List of Programmes

AP	BSc in Applied Physics
EST	BSc in Environmental Science & Tech
SHSA	Study Abroad (Science & Health)
SHSAO	Study Abroad (Science & Health)
SSE	BEng in Mechanical & Sustainability Eng

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