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ECE 5374G - Advanced Alternate Energy Systems (3C)

Course Description

Electric energy from alternative energy sources including solar, wind, hydro, biomass, geothermal and ocean. Characteristics of direct conversion, electromechanical conversion, and storage devices used in alternative energy systems. Power system issues associated with integration of small-scale energy sources into the electricity grid. System level cost benefit analysis.

Why take this course?

This course addresses the role of electricity in modern's society with the focus on alternative energy sources that include solar, wind, hydro, geothermal and ocean. Various energy storage devices and characteristics of direct and electrochemical conversion used in alternative energy systems will also be discussed, including emerging issues associated with integration of small-scales energy sources into the electricity grid, life-cycle costing, energy efficiency and conservation.

Learning Objectives

  • Perform the resource assessment of renewable energy sources for electricity generation.
  • Model the performance of distributed energy sources for grid-connected operation.
  • Analyze and design off-grid renewable energy systems.
  • Statistically analyze the long-term capacity factors and capacity credit from distributed sources.
  • Perform a system level cost-benefit analysis of alternate energy systems.