Renewable Energy Technology Fundamentals

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/renewable-energy-technology-fundamentals

Introduction

**Course Review: Renewable Energy Technology Fundamentals on Coursera** In an age where sustainability is at the forefront of global discourse, the demand for knowledge in renewable energy has never been greater. Coursera’s “Renewable Energy Technology Fundamentals” course stands out as an exceptional entry point for anyone looking to grasp the essentials of renewable energy technologies and their applications. Here’s a detailed overview and review of the course to help you decide if it’s the right fit for you. ### Course Overview “Renewable Energy Technology Fundamentals” is designed to provide learners with a comprehensive understanding of renewable energy technologies, including their mechanisms, advantages, and challenges. This course provides an overview of the rapidly growing renewable energy industry, which is pivotal for achieving international energy sustainability goals. As billions are invested annually in this sector, gaining foundational knowledge is essential for anyone interested in making a difference in energy sustainability. ### Main Syllabus Breakdown 1. **Energy Fundamentals** - This introductory module establishes a solid groundwork for all learners. It covers the basic concepts of energy, including definitions, origins, measurements, and fundamental principles. Understanding electricity, its measurement, and the role that renewable resources play in electricity generation are crucial components of this segment. By the end of this week, students are equipped with the vocabulary and the concepts needed to navigate the landscape of renewable energy technologies. 2. **Wind Energy** - The second week focuses on wind energy, the fastest-growing global renewable source. The course dives into the physics of wind—how it arises, its characteristics, and the energy it harbors. Students learn about wind turbines, including their mechanics, performance, and economics, while also exploring the latest advancements in offshore wind technologies. This module is particularly fascinating for anyone who is captivated by engineering and innovation in the energy sector. 3. **Solar Energy** - As one of the most abundant renewable resources, solar energy is thoroughly examined in the third week. This module explores the transformation of solar radiation into usable energy, including an in-depth look at photovoltaic (PV) technologies and their applications. It discusses planning and economics surrounding solar PV projects, providing practical insights for those interested in real-world applications of solar power. 4. **Other Renewable Energy Technologies** - In the final week’s module, the course takes a broader view by examining additional renewable technologies such as hydropower, biomass energy, geothermal power, and ocean energy. The importance of energy storage technologies, including pumped hydro, batteries, and hydrogen storage, is also emphasized to underscore their critical role in the future of renewable energy. Additionally, forecasts about the growth of these technologies highlight the course's forward-looking perspective. 5. **Final Assessment** - To demonstrate mastery of the material, the course concludes with a final exam. This assessment allows students to test their understanding and reinforce the knowledge they have gained throughout the course. ### Course Experience Coursera’s structure promotes a positive learning experience through engaging video lectures, quizzes, and peer-reviewed assignments. The content is accessible, understandable, and often includes real-world examples that make complex topics relatable. ### Recommendation For anyone interested in renewable energy—be it a student, professional, or simply an enthusiast looking to understand the dynamics of this crucial industry—I wholeheartedly recommend the “Renewable Energy Technology Fundamentals” course. Its well-structured syllabus offers a balanced mix of theoretical knowledge and practical applications. Moreover, the growing relevance of renewable energy makes this course not just a learning opportunity but an investment in your professional and academic future. ### Conclusion In conclusion, the “Renewable Energy Technology Fundamentals” course on Coursera has the potential to illuminate your understanding of energy sustainability and renewable resources profoundly. As we navigate towards a greener future, equipping oneself with knowledge in this area is both timely and essential. Don't miss this opportunity to be part of the renewable energy revolution!

Syllabus

Energy Fundamentals

Any understanding of renewable energy requires vocabulary, principles, and tools – that is the objective of this week’s module. We first define “energy.” What is it? Where does it come from? How is it measured? What are its rules? We then turn our attention to electricity and ask similar questions. What is electricity? How is it measured? How can renewable resources be used to generate electricity? Upon completion of this module, you will have a solid grounding in the underlying concepts required to understand the promise and challenges of renewable energy technologies.

This week we turn to wind energy – currently the most rapidly growing global source of renewable energy. First, we investigate how do winds arise? What are the important characteristics of wind? And how much energy is embodied in wind? We then describe how wind turbines extract energy from wind, and detail the components, performance, and economics of wind turbines. Along the way we pay close attention to rapidly evolving offshore wind technologies and their use.

Solar radiation is the most abundant source of renewable energy on earth. Given this abundance, how can it be transformed for human use? In this module we investigate several ways to turn sunlight into electricity. We first describe the attributes of solar radiation and the various ways that sunlight is useful for humans. Next, we introduce photovoltaic (PV) technologies, and how they are used to generate abundant electricity. We conclude with an examination of solar PV project applications, planning, and economics.

While wind and solar are the fastest growing renewable energy technologies globally, hydroelectric power remains the largest, and other technologies also have long histories. In this final module, we first describe six of these technologies, including hydropower, biomass energy, concentrating solar power, geothermal power, and ocean energy. Since effective and economic energy storage is critically important for the long-term success of renewable energy, we next turn to energy storage technologies, including pumped hydro, batteries, thermal storage, and hydrogen storage, plus several emerging storage technologies. We conclude with forecasts for the success of both renewable energy generating technologies, and renewable energy storage technologies.

The last week of Renewable Energy Technology Fundamentals includes a final exam that will allow you to demonstrate your mastery of the content covered in this course. Take some time to study, review any concepts or topics you found challenging, and then take the final exam!