Introduction to sustainable energy

Lectures: 2 sessions / week, 2 hours / session

Periodically, lecture sessions will be replaced by recitation sessions.

This class assesses current and potential future energy systems, covering resources, extraction, conversion, and end-use technologies, with emphasis on meeting regional and global energy needs in the 21st century in a sustainable manner. Instructors and guest lecturers will examine various renewable and conventional energy production technologies, energy end-use practices and alternatives, and consumption practices in different countries. Students will learn a quantitative framework to aid in evaluation and analysis of energy technology system proposals in the context of engineering, political, social, economic, and environmental goals. Undergraduate students enroll in Introduction to Sustainable Energy and graduate students enroll in Sustainable Energy.

One problem set is given per three class meeting days, on average. The first five problem sets focus on analytical skills and are shared with the graduate students; later problem sets are more comprehensive and integrating. Eight problem sets are assigned; undergraduates should complete 2 of 4 questions per problem set for the first five problem sets, and then answer all of the questions in the remaining three problem sets.

There will be two take-home midterm exams and one final exam administered to students enrolled in the undergraduate offering.

One problem set is given per three class meeting days, on average. The problem sets focus on analytical skills. Graduate students should complete 3 out of 4 questions on each problem set. Five problem sets are assigned, shared with the undergraduate students.

Graduate students will be required to turn in one written term paper (20-30 pages) with an interim progress report.

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