Energy conversion and renewable energy

Summary

Introductory course to energy conversion technologies (thermal power cycles and renewable-based technologies) and their integration into energy systems

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course, the student must be able to:

• Explain principles and limitations of the main energy conversion technologies
• Characterize fossil and renewable energy resources and their corresponding conversion technologies
• Explain the challenges related to energy: resources, energy services, economic and environmental impacts

Teaching methods

- Lectures : Flipped classroom based on readings and videos

- Exercices : 1 hour / week with support of TAs

- Project : 1 hour / week with support of TAs

Assessment methods

• Written exam at the end of the semester (60%)
• Intermediate and final project report (40%)

Supervision

Resources

Notes/Handbook

The course material consists of the following:

• Course compendium (lectures, exercises, solutions, project and former exams with corrections), available as a .pdf and on a dedicated website
• Slides and Pre-recorded videos, available on Moodle and on a SWITCHtube channel

Note that the course compendium and the slides/videos present the same content, the main difference lies in the addition of examples and further details in the coursebook in case of interest or need of explanations. This is done so that the interested student can choose the most suitable material and follow the course in case of conflict with other courses.

Moodle Link

• https://go.epfl.ch/ME-409