1. An individual poster based on a Wind Turbine focused case study weighted at 50% meeting learning outcomes 1 & 2, and assessing AHEP 4 Outcomes M1, M2, M3, M5, M17

2. A 15-minute GROUP presentation based on a Solar PV system case study at 50% meeting learning outcomes 3 & 4, and assessing AHEP 4 Outcomes M1, M2, M3, M4, M7, M16

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

Professional Body requirements mean that a minimum overall score of 50% is required to pass the module with a minimum mark of 40% on a component.

This module provides a thorough understanding of wind turbine designs and solar thermal systems, focusing on optimising these systems using simulation and analytical tools.

The module will cover the following topics:

- Latest advances in wind turbine
- Economic and performance metrics
- Industry-standard simulation software
- Wind turbine design standards
- Literature Review
- Solar PV systems
- Solar thermal collectors and system Integration
- Policies, regulations, and financial incentives
- Future Trends (emerging technologies)

1. Critically assess the latest advances in wind turbine design and analyse their economic and performance metrics. (AHEP 4: M1, M7)

Programme Learning Outcome: Knowledge & Understanding , Research Skills

2. Demonstrate advanced competence in using industry-standard simulation software to design a wind turbine and evaluate its aerodynamic performance. (AHEP 4: M2, M3, M5, M17)

Programme Learning Outcome: Application & Problem-Solving, Digital Literacy

3. Demonstrate comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the operation of solar PV systems and the performance of solar thermal collectors, alongside policies, regulations, and financial incentives that encourage the adoption of solar technology. (AHEP 4: M1, M7)

Programme Learning Outcome: Knowledge & Understanding, Research Skills

4. Work effectively within a group to design a solar thermal system by applying mathematical models to assess potential energy savings and cost benefits throughout its lifespan. (AHEP 4: M2, M3, M4, M16)

Programme Learning Outcome: Critical Reasoning & Collaboration, 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.

Group Project Work: Collaborative activities that simulate real-world scenarios, enabling you to develop teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills.

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

The following resources are needed:

- Lecture and Seminar Space with A/V
- PC and standard engineering software
- Simulation software such as ANSYS Fluent, ANSYS DesignModeler/SpaceClaim, ANSYS Mesher, ANSYS DX (Optional), or equivalent

Anderson, Colin G. (2024), Wind Turbines: Theory and Practice; 2nd Edition, Cambridge University Press

Letcher, Trevor (2023), Wind Energy Engineering: A Handbook for Onshore and Offshore Wind Turbines; 2nd Edition, Elsevier Science & Technology.

Brøndsted, P., Nijssen, R., Goutianos, S. (2023), Advances in Wind Turbine Blade Design and Materials, Second Edition, Woodhead Publishing Series in Energy

Platzer, W., Stieglitz, R. (2024), Solar Thermal Energy Systems: Fundamentals, Technology, Applications, Springer

Hasanuzzaman, Md (2022) Technologies for Solar Thermal Energy: Theory, Design, and Optimization, Academic Press

This module provides you with a thorough understanding of wind turbine designs and solar thermal systems, focusing on optimising these systems using simulation and analytical tools. Through real-world case studies, you will examine the performance characteristics of wind and solar-powered renewable energy generation. You will critically analyse energy conversion processes and apply optimisation techniques to enhance system efficiency. Additionally, the module allows you to consider the technical and environmental factors that influence both current and future power systems.