What you'll learn
Renewable Energy Systems is a short course offered by the Faculty of Engineering, here at Strathclyde. This 10 credit masterclass offers insight into the renewable energy industry for anyone looking to move into this booming sector.
This uniquely well-rounded taster course provides an overarching understanding of the principles of wind and solar power generation, the management of wind farms and solar PV Plants and their place in the wider power system. This course is designed for those with a background in engineering, mathematics or physics who want to gain in-depth and industrially relevant knowledge in renewable energy systems.
Course description
This course will introduce a range of renewable energy technologies, specifically the renewable energy resource, the design and application of the technology. A key emphasis is given to wind energy systems including wind turbine anatomy, the technologies used and their variations. Additionally, students will learn the generator and power converter systems used in wind energy systems and the main components used in solar photovoltaics systems. This course will also give a solid understanding of how the grid connection and control of these renewable energy sources effect power system operation.
It is designed to be a 10 credit module which theoretically equates to 100 hours of work. You can start and complete at any time within the start and end date of the course and learn in your own pace and in your own time.
There will be five key elements of study within the module:
| Introduction to Renewable | Wind turbine technology, modelling, control and operations | Wind farm design, control and operation | Grid integration | Solar PV fundamentals and grid integration |
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| Fundamentals and key characteristics of wind, solar PV, hydro, wave and tidal energy sources. | Principle of operation, turbine types, power train (e.g. gearbox, generator, converter), cost of energy, turbine modelling for control design purposes, wind turbine reliability, maintenance strategies, O&M costs, condition. | Design objectives and specifications, electrical collector (array) types, wake and electrical losses, basics of wind farm control. | Grid Codes, HVAC and HVDC transmission systems, cable technology for submarine applications, controls to support power grid operation. | Solar PV anatomy, equivalent circuit and IV characteristic, PV module design, maximum power point tracking, power electronic interface. |
Assessment
Throughout the course you will be asked to complete a number of short online quizzes attached to each topic.
Details
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Delivery |
The next module will run from 16th November 2023 until 29th February 2024. This course will be taught exclusively online through a blend of self-guided lessons, worked examples and online quizzes. You will have the opportunity to develop and practice your understanding through 5 online quizzes where feedback will be provided in preparation for the class exam assessment. Upon successful completion of the assessment, you will receive a formal University of Strathclyde Continuing Professional Development (CPD) certificate when you complete the module. You can start and complete at any time within the start and end date of the course and learn in your own pace and in your own time. |
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Cost |
Would usually cost £600 but funding options available |
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Funding available |
Fully Funded places are available to applicants living in Scotland. These are supported by the Scottish Funding Council. Funded places are limited, so early application is advised. If you are not currently living in Scotland, please contact us at eng-upskilling@strath.ac.uk to discuss what options are available to you. |
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What will I get at the end of it? |
This module is worth 10 credits at SCQF Level 11. You'll receive a formal University Continuing Professional Development (CPD) certificate when you complete the module. |
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Sign me up! |
The module is open for applications now. Module materials will be accessible from Monday 20th May 2024 until Friday 9th August 2024. |
