WOM416 Renewable energy systems
This unit is designed to give learners a technical overview of biomass resources, biomass energy conversion technologies and their application in real world energy systems. The historical context of biomass as an energy source will be discussed. The linkages between biomass energy, solar energy, the carbon cycle, climate change, fossil fuels, wider environmental issues and socio-economics will also be discussed.
Objectives
By the end of this course you will be able to:
- Explain the carbon cycle.
- Explain that all organic matter in the bio-sphere is a biomass resource.
- Explain the carbon neutral nature of biomass and how carbon sequestration coupled with biomass generation can contribute to reversing the build-up of atmospheric carbon dioxide.
- Explain typical biomass calorific values and compare them to fossil fuel equivalents.
- Describe examples of water and waste water derived sludge and their different characteristics.
- Describe sources of imported industrial bio solids.
- Describe a range of mesophilic anaerobic digestion (MAD) pretreatment processes to enhance MAD performance.
- Describe how imported industrial bio solids waste can be treated to benefit renewable energy production.
- Explain the methods and benefits of transforming biogas for use in reciprocating internal combustion engines in vehicular transport.
- Describe how waste heat from combined heat and power (CHP) can be utilised.
- Explain how energy can be extracted from the bio solids incineration process.
- Explain how renewable energy production and fossil fuel consumption can influence a water service companys sludge treatment strategy.
- Explain the principles and limitations of photo-voltaic power schemes for water and waste water applications.
- Explain the financial and security of service implications of contractual obligations for the production, use and export of renewable energy.
- Describe a typical contract for the purchase of electricity produced from fossil fuel source.
Method
Classroom based activity using PowerPoint, group activities and discussion. End of unit assessment in the form of an exam and written assignment
Pre Course Requirements
None