1. A 2000-word lab-based report on the design and analysis of renewable energy system(s), weighted at 50%, meeting Learning Outcomes 3 and 4. Assessing AHEP 4 Outcomes C2, C3, C4, C7, C10, and C12.

2. A 2-hour exam weighted at 50%, meeting Learning Outcomes 1 and 2. Assessing AHEP 4 Outcomes C1, C2, C3 and C6.

Formative assessment and feedback will be undertaken during the module to assess and develop student learning.

Professional body requirements stipulate that a minimum overall mark of 40% is required to pass the module, with a minimum mark of 30% required in each element of assessment unless otherwise stated.

- Fundamentals of energy and power include various energy types such as kinetic, chemical, heat, and potential energy. This also encompasses energy flow, energy usage, and renewable energy sources.
- Hydroelectricity system, reservoirs, run-of-river, pump storage, types of turbines, wave and tidal energy
- Photovoltaics (PV) technologies, PV system design and integration, inverters, Solar thermal electricity and heating.
- Wind energy, wind turbines, power curve, aerodynamics, and types of turbines, Control of angle of attack (AoA) and pitch angle, efficiency calculations.
- Biomass and geothermal energy systems.
- Energy storage technologies, including batteries, fuel cells, pump hydro, compressed air, EV with V2G.
- Grid integration challenges, impact of intermittencies, forecasting, curtailments, energy balance issues, and frequency problems.
- Societal impact of renewable energy including ethical considerations

1. Demonstrate an in-depth knowledge and understanding of a range of renewable energy technologies and their applications. (AHEP 4: C1, C2, C3)

Programme Learning Outcome: Knowledge & Understanding

2. Formulate and analyse complex problems on integrating renewable energy systems into existing energy infrastructure. (AHEP 4: C2, C3, C6)

Programming Learning Outcome: Application & Problem-Solving

3. Critically evaluate renewable energy systems and net zero scenario’s applications while analysing security, environmental and societal impacts. (AHEP 4: C2, C3, C4, C7, C10)

Programming Learning Outcome: Digital Literacy, Research Skills

4. Design, execute, and critically evaluate experiments on renewable energy systems, interpreting results for real-world applications. (AHEP 4: C12)

Programming Learning Outcome: Application & Problem-Solving, Reflection.

This module will enable you to develop understanding, apply knowledge, analyse and evaluate problems, and create solutions through a variety of learning activities, including:

Taught Lectures: To provide a structured introduction to key concepts and underpinning theory.

Tutorials: Interactive sessions designed to reinforce learning, explore concepts in greater depth, and provide opportunities for guided problem-solving and discussion.

Practical Activities: Hands-on sessions using appropriate tools, techniques, or methodologies to support the application of theoretical knowledge to practical problems.

Formative opportunities for informal assessment and feedback will take place throughout the module to support learning, monitor progress, and guide development.

Experimental Lab Facilities in the Renewable Energy Laboratory

Nelson, V. C. and Starcher, K. L. (2025). Introduction to renewable energy. 3rd edition. Routledge.

Jenkins, N. and Ekanayake, J. (2024) Renewable energy engineering. 2nd edn. Cambridge University Press.

Everett, B., Boyle, G., Peake, S. and Ramage, J. (eds.) (2012) Energy systems and sustainability: power for a sustainable future. 2nd edn. Oxford University Press

Boyle, G. (ed.) (2012) Renewable energy: power for a sustainable future. 3rd edn. Oxford University Press.

The books listed above for renewable energy systems are recognised standard works in the field, providing rigorous coverage of core and foundational concepts. Although they are not the most recently published texts, they remain widely used and continue to provide essential theoretical grounding, supported by more recent industry publications included in the reading list.

This module introduces the principles and technologies underpinning renewable energy systems, exploring how energy is generated, converted, stored, and integrated into power networks. Learners will examine key renewable technologies including solar, wind, hydro, biomass, and geothermal systems, alongside energy storage and grid integration challenges.