1. A 2,500-word report including powerplant simulation and analysis weighted at 50% meeting Learning Outcomes 3 and 4. Assessing AHEP 4 Outcomes C12, C13, C17.

2. A 1.5-hour examination weighted at 50% meeting Learning Outcomes 1 and 2. Assessing AHEP 4 Outcomes C1, C2 and C5

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.

- Overview of global energy systems, power generation technologies, carbon emission levels, and the role of optimisation in modern power plants.
- Review of thermodynamic principles relevant to power generation, including energy and exergy analysis, efficiency limits, and loss mechanisms.
- Operational principles, performance characteristics, and optimisation of conventional (e.g., coal and gas fired power plants, Combined Cycle Gas Turbine (CCGT) systems) and renewable power plants (e.g., wind, solar, hydro, geothermal)
- Performance analysis, operational evaluation and optimisation challenges in advanced power plants.
- Power plant components and subsystems including boilers, turbines, compressors, generators, heat exchangers, and condensers.
- Power plants cycles’ thermodynamic analysis and multi-objective optimisation (energy, efficiency, cost, emissions)
- Electrical, thermal, and mechanical energy storage technologies
- Emissions control and carbon capture and storage (CCS)
- Use of simulation and modelling tools for performance analysis
- Case studies and practical applications and real-world power plant optimisation scenarios
- Industry-led examples and emerging trends

1. Critically analyse the performance, efficiency, and environmental impact of conventional and renewable power plant technologies, including the integration of renewable energy sources and energy storage systems into current and future power plant infrastructures. (AHEP4 C1)

Programme Learning Outcome: Knowledge & Understanding, Research Skills

2. Critically appraise sustainability and carbon-reduction frameworks influencing modern power plants operation and energy systems. (AHEP4 C2, C5)

Programme Learning Outcome: Critical Reasoning & Collaboration, Research Skills

3. Evaluate power‑plant energy conversion processes using thermodynamic and systems‑based methodologies, applying optimisation techniques to enhance energy efficiency, reduce fuel consumption, and improve overall operational performance. (AHEP4 C12)

Programme Learning Outcomme: Application & Problem-Solving

4. Effectively communicate findings from using engineering simulation tools to model, analyse, and optimise power plants or end user energy performance to both engineering professionals and non-technical stakeholders. (AHEP4 C13, C17)

Programme Learning Outcome: Application & Problem-Solving, Communication

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.

This module will make use of a range of specialist software, equipment, and facilities to support learning, simulation, and practical investigations:

- Simulation and Modelling Software: Thermodynamic and energy system modelling tools such as Aspen Plus, GasTurb, MATLAB/Simulink and ANSYS Fluent, or equivalent.
- Laboratory and Experimental Facilities: Access to renewable energy laboratory facilities for hands-on experimentation.
- Data and Databases: Literature and reference databases such as ScienceDirect, IEEE Xplore, and Web of Science or equivalent for research and case study analysis.

Gicquel, R., 2021. Energy systems: a new approach to engineering thermodynamics. CRC Press.

Shahnia, F. and Wen, F. eds., 2025. Power and energy resources: modelling and optimization. Springer Nature.

Darabkhani, H.G., Varasteh, H. and Bazooyar, B., 2022. Carbon capture technologies for gas-turbine-based power plants. Elsevier.

This module provides you with a comprehensive understanding of power generation technologies and the optimisation of energy systems within modern power plants. You will explore the performance characteristics of conventional and renewable power generation, critically analyse energy conversion processes, and apply optimisation techniques to maximise system efficiency, sustainability, and operational performance and minimise carbon emissions.