PHYS 350 - Renewable Energy Systems

Cross-Listed as ENVI 350

This course provides an in-depth treatment of the science and engineering of power generation by solar and wind and their integration on the electrical grid using energy storage. In the first part of the course general aspects of electrical grid energy production will be surveyed. The focus of the course will be an in-depth treatment of solar cell and wind turbines technologies, energy storage options, electrification of transportation, and emerging areas such as demand response and microgrids. We will conclude with a discussion of current technical and economic issues associated with the wide scale implementation of these technologies. Prerequisite(s): Though there is no college level mathematical prerequisite, students should have mathematics preparation though elementary calculus (high school calculus or MATH 135). Not open to students who have taken PHYS 130. Alternate spring semesters. (4 Credits)