Renewable Power and Electricity Systems

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/renewable-power-electricity-systems

Introduction

### Course Review: Renewable Power and Electricity Systems on Coursera In an era where the impacts of traditional energy sources on the environment have become increasingly apparent, the urgency to transition towards renewable energy is more critical than ever. This is where the **Renewable Power and Electricity Systems** course on Coursera comes into play, offering valuable insights into the burgeoning field of renewable electricity. Designed for anyone from energy enthusiasts to professionals in the industry, this course lays a strong foundation for understanding the shifts occurring within the energy landscape. #### Overview The course foregrounds the dramatic growth of renewable energy, particularly in the realm of electricity. With wind turbines and solar photovoltaic (PV) systems leading the charge, the course emphasizes their role in establishing a low-carbon and sustainable energy future. As we face an energy revolution, it’s crucial to grasp the concepts that underpin this shift, making this course an indispensable resource. #### Syllabus Breakdown 1. **Introduction and Renewable Power Basics** The initial lessons familiarize students with the course structure and the essentials of electricity measurement. This foundational knowledge is crucial, especially as learners delve into the mechanics of the two predominant renewable technologies: wind turbines and solar PV systems. The clarity of these explanations makes complex concepts accessible to beginners. 2. **Grid Operations and Grid Integration** As renewable technologies become more prevalent, the need for reliable electricity systems (grids) becomes essential. The course covers how grids operate and the challenges posed by intermittent renewable sources. It delves into the evolving discipline of grid integration, showcasing strategies for balancing demand and supply while incorporating more renewable energy sources. This segment is particularly engaging for those interested in the logistics of energy management. 3. **Storage and Demand Flexibility** The discussions surrounding storage solutions and demand flexibility are enlightening. These two tools are pivotal in enhancing the integration of variable renewables. The course explores their current status, operational mechanisms, and the potential challenges that lie ahead. This module provides learners with a clear picture of how the future of energy storage could look, prompting thoughts on innovation in the sector. 4. **Power Structure Industry and ISOs** Understanding the institutional and regulatory transformations within the electricity sector is vital. This part of the course sheds light on how competition is becoming a significant aspect of electricity generation. Through case studies from Ghana, France, and the UAE, learners gain a global perspective on how various countries are adapting to these changes and the role of Independent System Operators (ISOs) in facilitating this transition. 5. **Course Summary and Review** The final lessons synthesize the content covered throughout the course, reinforcing the connections among the various topics. This summary is beneficial in solidifying knowledge and providing a cohesive view of the renewable electricity industry's trajectory. #### Overall Impression The **Renewable Power and Electricity Systems** course stands out not just for its comprehensive curriculum but also for its clarity and practical relevance. The combination of theoretical insights, real-world case studies, and current trends makes it both informative and engaging. #### Recommendation I wholeheartedly recommend this course for anyone looking to dive deep into the world of renewable energy, especially those with aspirations of working in the energy sector or wanting to understand the dynamics of electricity systems. Whether you are a student, an industry professional, or simply someone passionately interested in making a positive environmental impact, this course offers invaluable knowledge that could prove transformative. In conclusion, as renewable energy continues to reshape our world, staying informed about these developments is essential. Enrolling in the **Renewable Power and Electricity Systems** course on Coursera will not only empower you with knowledge but also equip you to contribute meaningfully to the sustainable energy revolution. Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of the solution—take the plunge into this enlightening journey today!

Syllabus

Introduction and Renewable Power Basics

The first lesson provides an overview of the course. The second lesson explains how electricity is measured and defined, and then dives into the market and technical details of the two fastest-growing renewable electricity technologies: wind turbines and solar photovoltaic (PV).

Electricity systems - also called grids - must provide reliable electricity, all the time. This task is further challenged by the rapid growth in wind turbines and solar PV, which are subject to fluctuations in the wind and the sun. These lessons explain how electricity systems use different types of power plants to provide reliable electricity, and then explores the rapidly changing topic of ‘grid integration’ - how to integrate large amounts of new wind and solar PV while maintaining grid reliability.

Two specific tools to ease grid integration of variable renewables stand out for their potential: Storage and demand flexibility. These lessons discuss how storage and demand flexibility work, describe their current status and limitations, and identify key opportunities.

Electricity systems’ institutional and regulatory structures are changing worldwide, and competition is playing a growing role in electricity generation. Why is this happening, and what does it mean for renewables? These lessons use case studies of Ghana, France, the UAE, and others to illustrate how the electricity industry is shifting, and discuss the growing role of Independent System Operators (ISOs) in grid operation and planning.

Renewable electricity is growing at an astounding pace, and the electricity industry is shifting towards greater use of competition in electricity generation. These lessons pull all the course material together and show how the pieces fit together.