RSE3141 · Solar energy

Overview

This unit covers concepts associated with the solar energy industry including; the characteristics of solar radiation and solar collectors including efficiency evaluation and prediction of long-term performance; system modelling; energy storage; computer simulation and modelling of performance and the economics and financing of solar energy projects.

Areas of study: Minor: Power and energy systems engineering Minor: Renewable energy engineering

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook lists an examination for this unit.

Continuous assessment: 50% Final assessment: 50% This unit contains threshold hurdle requirements that you must achieve to be able to pass the unit. You are required to achieve at least 45% in the total continuous assessment component and at least 45% in the final assessment component. The consequence of not achieving a hurdle requirement is a fail grade (NH) and a maximum mark of 45 for the unit.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

Learning outcomes

1. Describe the fundamental characteristics of solar irradiance, including the wavelength and frequency, energy levels and position in the sky (zenith and azimuth angles).
2. Describe the functionality and evaluate the relative benefits of concentrating solar thermal energy plant compared to solar PV and other energy technologies.
3. Demonstrate how a solar photovoltaic cell works, including the principles of semi-conductors, bandgap energy, PN junctions and measures of PV cell efficiency.
4. Evaluate the role of PV and solar thermal technologies in the energy market, now and into the future.
5. Design solar-based energy system configurations for a range of scales and scenarios from household to national markets.

Workload

The minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of 3-6 hours of scheduled learning activities and 6-9 hours of independent study per week. Scheduled activities may include a combination of teacher-directed learning, peer-directed learning and online engagement. Independent study may include associated readings, assessment and preparation for scheduled activities.

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.