One of the major contributors of greenhouse gases to the atmosphere, with well-known impacts on climate, is our use of energy, especially electricity generation. Fortunately, the work of scientists and engineers is providing us with a range of far less polluting alternatives, especially those which we refer to as renewables. In this course you will be introduced to the key concepts of energy. The second law of thermodynamics is central to many of our uses of heat energy. We will then study solar and wind energy, storage, and how these are being integrated into Australia’s energy mix.

DELIVERY MODE

• Face-to-Face

COURSE OUTLINE

• Definitions and types of energy
• The science of heat energy
• Electromagnetic energy and climate
• Emissions from energy use
• Solar energy and how to exploit it
• Wind as an energy source
• Energy storage options

LEARNING OUTCOMES

By the end of this course, students should be able to:

1. Understand the role of thermodynamics in energy conversion
2. Understand the environmental impacts of energy use
3. Understand the complexity of a photocell
4. Understand how we are using wind energy