This Module explains the importance of renewable energy electricity generation in the transition to a net-zero carbon electricity supply system. It introduces the generation of electricity from renewable energy:  wind power, solar PV and hydro power and derives the equations to predict the output of renewable energy generation schemes. The connection of renewable energy generators to the distribution system is investigated through load flow and short circuit calculations using power system analysis software. 

LO1. Analyse and predict the performance of renewable energy generation schemes: wind energy, solar PV, hydro generation. 

LO2. Evaluate the financial viability of a renewable energy scheme. 

LO3. Discuss environmental impact of renewable energy generation schemes and state the main elements of Environmental Impact Assessment. 

LO4. Analyse and predict the impact of a renewable energy generator on the electricity distribution network. 

LO5. Use power system analysis software to investigate the electrical connection of a distributed generator through load flow and fault level studies. 

The module will be delivered in the Autumn semester through a blend of on-campus face-to-face classes, online learning material, and guided study. Each week, there will be a face-face 2-hour session with short lectures and examples. An additional optional 1-hour coursework support session will be held in weeks 3-9. 

Skills developed and practised through the module include: 

• Quantification of the renewable energy resource.  

• Analysis of the operation of simple thermal, fluid and mechanical renewable energy systems. 

• Development of a feasibility study of a renewable energy scheme. 

• Effective use of power system analysis software and renewable energy resource assessment software. 

• Analysis of the operation of distributed electrical generator systems (synchronous and induction machines, and converters) 

• Application of power system analysis to the connection of distributed generators. 

• Preparation of a concise (10 page) technical report and effective use of data. 

• Recognition of the importance of environmental and social impacts on the development of renewable energy schemes 

There are two assessments on the module: 

One summative assessment will be an individual Exam (60%) which covers LO 1, 3 and 4(p).   

Graduate attributes of Problem solving, Critical Thinking and Communication are developed here  

Feedback on the summative exam will be provided in the form of generic cohort feedback and your individual grade  

Formative opportunities will be provided through class quizzes, tutorials, and a mock exam  

Feedback on formative work will be verbal in class  

The second summative assessment will be a coursework assignment (40%) which covers LO 1,2,4(p) and 5.  

Graduate attributes of Problem-solving, Critical thinking, Digital Literacy, Reflection, and Communication are developed here  

Written feedback on the marked coursework assignment will be provided individually through Ultra alongside generic cohort feedback and your individual mark.   

Formative opportunities will be provided through computer lab assignments and Ultra discussion boards 

Feedback on formative work will be verbal in class. 

Note (p) denotes partial coverage of LO.  

THE OPPORTUNITY FOR REASSESSMENT IN THIS MODULE:   

The opportunity for reassessment in this module will be set at component level. The remit of the reassessment will be set by the module leader mapped against the module learning outcomes.    

Opportunities for re-assessment is only permitted provided you have not failed more credit than in the resit rule adopted by your programme.  If the amount of credit you have failed is more than permitted by the relevant resit rule, you may be permitted to repeat study if you are within the threshold set for the Repeat rule adopted by your programme.  You will be notified of your eligibility to resit/repeat any modules after the Examining Board in the Summer period.   

All resit assessments will be held in the Resit Examination period, prior to the start of the following academic session.  

• Generation of electricity and Carbon Intensity of electricity.  

• Renewable energy generation, technologies and applications: wind energy, photovoltaic systems and hydro generation. 

• Optional study of solar thermal energy, energy storage and marine power generation. 

• Renewable energy resource assessment. Capacity Factor of renewable energy generators. 

• Financial evaluation of renewable energy schemes. Discounted Cash Flow. 

• Environmental Impact Assessment. 

• Control systems of renewable energy generators. 

• Synchronous generators, and power electronic converters for renewable energy schemes. 

• Connection of renewable energy schemes to the distribution network: load flow and fault level studies.