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This module will review the field of sustainability. Firstly, we will conceptualise sustainability, its history and the challenges to sustainable development. Methods of estimating life cycle carbon emission and ecological impacts will be critical analysed. The process of risk assessments in the context of the renewable energy industry, will also be discussed.

Next the module will consider the topic of energy consumption and usage, most notably in the heating of buildings and transportation (both of which represents the bulk of final energy consumption). This shall include estimating the energy consumption of buildings depending on climate conditions and the options for improving building performance and estimating of heat load, boiler requirements, etc. Transportation shall also consider the environmental impact of transportation as well as the design of urban areas, public transport, its benefits and limitations.

Finally, we will review the application of renewable energy resources for the design of appropriate renewable energy systems; including autonomous off-grid systems, as well as the methodology and rationale for grid connection. Systems control and energy storage on both a micro and macro scale will be considered next. This shall include Economic and environmental impact of energy systems. Hydro electric systems design, including water turbine selection and Flow Duration Curve analysis for optimisation of energy yield will be presented. Wind energy design shall also be considered, including the site selection and estimation of performance.

On completion of this module you will be able to:
LO1: Analyse and mathematically manipulate renewable energy resources performance data as well as critical appraisal of the life cycle environmental impact
LO2: Explain and discuss the design considerations of autonomous and grid connected renewable energy based systems
LO3: Examine health and safety and risk assessments in the context of sustainable energy technologies.
LO4: Determine the appropriate design and performance for grid connection opportunities with hydro turbines.
LO5: Critically appraise the environmental impact of biomass transportation systems, specify the appropriate size of boiler for a specific installation, and consider payback.