This module will give you an appreciation of a number of different types of alternative energy sources whose outputs are suitable for conversion into electric energy. You will acquaint yourselves with the relevant technical, economic and policy aspects of the electricity sector and develop an integrated systems approach for appraising alternative energy systems. 

• LO1 Compile, interpret and summarise the findings of recent publications in the field of low carbon energy systems  

• LO2 Assess of the requirements of  energy systems in future and how they can be met 

• LO3 Develop solutions to problems in the low carbon energy systems sector. 

• LO4 Critically assess the CO2 emission factors and the costs of power generation from different technologies  

The module will be delivered through a blend of online teaching and learning material, guided study, and on-campus face-to-face classes (tutorials, feedback sessions).  All the learning material delivered by the module staff including the links to the lecture recordings will be available on the Learning Central 

These skills link with the graduate attributes of ‘independent and critical thinkers’ and ‘effective communicators’. 

• Analyse the GB power system with different generation mix to achieve CO2 emission targets  

• Solve problems using an integrated, multidisciplinary systems approach  

• Work effectively within a small group environment  

• Identify the factors affecting the generation mix under a decarbonised electric power system  

This module is assessed by 100% project work broken up in the following way: 

• 20% of the total mark is for the Individual Report. In this report, the student will discuss key technical, economic and environmental characteristics of a chosen low carbon power generation technology. This assessment covers MLO 4.  

Graduate attribute of Independent and Critical Thinking is developed here. 

Feedback on the individual report will be provided to every student. 

Formative opportunities and feedback will be provided through class activities. 

• 20% of the total mark is for the Group Presentation. Students will present their progress and interim findings in this presentation. This assessment covers MLO 1(p) and 2(p).  

Graduate attribute of Collaboration and Effective Communication are developed here. 

Feedback on the presentation will be provided to each group so they improve their work before submitting the Final Group Report. 

Formative opportunities and feedback will be provided through supervised group discussions and class activities. 

• 50% of the total mark is for the final Group Report. In the report the students will discuss the state of the art of the GB electricity system, and propose their solutions to reduce emission and improve the security of electricity supply in a cost effective way. This assessment covers MLO 2(p) and 3(p). 

Graduate attribute of Collaboration and Effective Communication are developed here. 

Feedback on the group report will be provided to each group. 

Formative opportunities and feedback will be provided through supervised group discussions and class activities. 

• 10% peer evaluation. The students working in a same group will assess each other’s contributions to the group activities. This assessment indirectly covers MLO 1(p), 2(p) and 3(p) 

Note: (p) indicates partial assessment of the module learning outcome. 

THE OPPORTUNITY FOR REASSESSMENT IN THIS MODULE: 

Reassessment candidates will undertake a synoptic 100% individual coursework assessment based on the components undertaken within the module mapped to all module learning outcomes (MLO1-4). 

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. 

• Fundamentals of the energy systems: Energy Resources, Energy Conversion and Transport, Energy Consumptions  

• Energy Challenges for the UK: Electricity, Gas and Heat  

• Fundamentals of Energy System Planning: Capex, Opex, Levelised cost, Security Criteria  

• Introduction to Optimisation – Linear Programming  

• Reliability, resilience and security of electricity supply