BEng Renewable Energy Engineering

ENE1011: Engineering Mathematics and Scientific Computing

Mathematics is at the heart of all Science and Engineering subjects, providing the logical foundations and quantitative tools for modelling and analysis. The modern engineer also leverages the power of computing to solve otherwise intractable problems. This module introduces the fundamental mathematics and scientific computing skills that will underpin engineering applications throughout your programme of study.

You will learn about matrix methods, differential equations, integral transforms and statistics - mathematical tools that are vital for 21st-century engineers. Training in scientific computing with the Python programming language will equip you with powerful modelling and data processing skills - this will mirror mathematical content, building knowledge of specialist packages to implement mathematical methods.

This module aims to provide you with the mathematical tools to tackle modern engineering problems. It will allow you to develop strong quantitative skills, such that mathematical tools become second nature so you can focus directly on engineering challenges and concepts. An important aspect of this is to provide a solid foundation in programming so that it can help you develop new ways of engineering thinking and cutting-edge solutions to ever-changing societal challenges.

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ENE1012: Multi-Disciplinary Group Challenge Project

The University declared an environment and climate emergency in May 2019. The future of our planet and community is at stake. We know though that simply declaring an environment and climate emergency is not enough so you will be part of a team involved in this real-world Project Based Learning (PBL) module to show our commitment to leading the change required. Your career as a professional engineer will require you to work effectively with multi-disciplinary teams on complex and challenging projects. In preparation for this working environment your first task as a new engineering student will be to work on energy recovery systems during this multidisciplinary challenge project.

The PBL driving question is: How can we design innovative energy recovery systems for mining operations?

Your team project will be completed over two terms and PBL will be the vehicle for putting the core knowledge gained in Fundamentals of Mechanics, Materials and Electronics into practice in a collaborative group setting. To support your project work you will undertake workshops in study/research skills, sketching, technical communication, 3D modelling and prototyping. Your group project will culminate in a presentation using both multimedia, 3D modelling and basic physical prototyping such as card modelling, 3D printing, laser cutting or blue foam modelling.

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ENE1014: Fundamentals of Mechanics

This module builds on foundational engineering principles, advancing your understanding of key concepts in Mechanics. Designed as part of a trio of core engineering modules, it provides essential knowledge of mechanics, materials, and electronics, offering a solid foundation for more specialized study. In this module, the focus shifts from classical mechanics to more advanced fundamentals, including hydrostatics, hydrodynamics, and an introduction to dynamics. These topics are crucial for understanding real-world engineering problems, such as the behaviour of fluids in different environments and the forces acting on moving objects. Whether assessing pressure distribution on submerged structures or analysing fluid flow in pipelines, this module equips you with the necessary tools for tackling complex engineering challenges.

The module is structured around flipped learning, where you engage with learning materials and practical questions ahead of interactive tutorial sessions. A continuous assessment approach enables you to self-evaluate throughout the term, providing feedback on your progress and helping to reinforce critical learning.

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ENE1015: Fundamentals of Materials

This module is one of three engineering fundamentals modules that will introduce engineering concepts and theory across the areas of Mechanics, Materials and Electronics and will provide you with a solid grounding on which to build in later modules. In this module we focus on two sub-disciplines, material science and material engineering, with topics spamming from material properties, material structures, material failure and material applications. At the heart of any engineering analysis is the need to understand an object's response to the applied conditions, whether it is the allowed stress level to avoid catastrophic failure of pressurised vessels, or altering material micro- and nanostructures to provide improved ductility, strength, or resistance to fracture. None of this analysis is possible without first understanding basic materials.

You will work through new topics each week with the aid of extensive learning materials, lectures, tutorials, and experimental activities. You will undertake numerous elements of online continuous assessment throughout the module which will allow you to evaluate your understanding of the material and diagnose areas that require further attention. Continuous assessments provide ongoing feedback and support you to actively manage your learning.

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ENE1016: Fundamentals of Electronics

This module takes you into the world of Electronic engineering - a field that covers everything from radio to space flight. In this module you will learn fundamental concepts of charge, current and potential which are the foundation of electrical signals. You will be introduced to the basic electronic components and circuital laws for developing important DC and AC circuits for applications in power supplies, wireless power transfer, signal filters and sensor circuits.

As part of modern electronics, this module also gives you a foundation of semiconductors and semiconductor devices both analogue and digital. You will learn the characteristic and operation of fundamental analogue devices such as diodes, transistors and operational amplifiers and their applications as amplifiers, in power suppliers, device drivers, and sensor circuits (such as temperature and strain). In digital electronics, you will study Boolean algebra and fundamentals of logic gates for the design of combinational and sequential logic circuits and their practical applications in decision making circuits and controllers for industrial applications, counters and timers.

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ENE1017: Fundamentals of Engineering

This module exemplifies the unique approach taken here at Exeter to nurturing the next generation of multidisciplinary engineers. It will introduce engineering concepts and theory across the areas of Mechanics, Materials and Electronics and will provide you with a solid grounding on which to build in later modules.

In this module we focus on two sub-disciplines of materials, material science and material engineering, with topics spamming from material properties, material structures, material failure and material applications. At the heart of any engineering analysis is the need to understand an object's response to the applied conditions, whether it is the allowed stress level to avoid catastrophic failure of pressurised vessels, or altering material micro- and nanostructures to provide improved ductility, strength, or resistance to fracture. None of this analysis is possible without first understanding basic materials.

We also focus on classical mechanics. At the heart of any engineering analysis is the need to understand an object's response to its environment, whether it's the forces imparted by traffic as it traverses a bridge or the forces of lift that allow an aircraft to fly. None of this analysis is possible without first understanding classical mechanics. In this module you will cover foundational mechanics theory.

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EMG2002: Data, Signals and Systems

Solar flares occur on eleven-year cycles, surfers wait for “every seventh wave”, porpoise calls have a distinctive signature that can be detected against the background noise of their marine environment, bats locate prey by elaborate use of sonar. In each case, complex time-series data is decomposed into frequency-determined characteristics. This decomposition is then used for explanative and predictive purposes. The analysis of these complex frequency characteristics is at the core of data, signals and systems. Such signals or data are inputs to systems which in turn connect with other systems - for example a smart grid will comprise inter-connected renewable technologies that draw on energy sources from solar, wind, tidal, etc. You will study classical mathematical matrix algebra and transforms techniques, applied in a context of a data-rich world. You will use real data from Cornwall-based applications in marine ecology, renewable wave energy and environment and human health.

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ENE2003: Electrical Energy Conversion and Transport

This module aims to develop your basic knowledge of electrical energy conversion and transport, including the electrical machines, and the power transmission and distribution networks. Building upon the previous knowledge you gained from the Electrical and Electronic Principles module, this is a fundamental course in electrical engineering for the B/MEng Renewable Energy Engineering degrees. It is also a prerequisite for the ENE3002 Network Engineering, Modelling and Management module.

This course enables you to develop a broad understanding of electrical machines and power transmissions in electrical energy systems. By the end of this module, you will have confidence in your fundamental understanding, applications and practical knowledge of electrical machines, power transmission and distributions. Furthermore, you will have an improved insight into electrical energy systems.

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ENE2006: Applied Thermodynamics

This module blends the skills of physical understanding/intuition with some numerical work.  The concepts covered will be for the main part on the thermodynamic cycles characteristic of many existing machinery (or thermal systems) where heat and work transfer (i.e. energy transfer) take place You will develop the valuable skill of working out the efficiency of a given cycle from first principles.  This will help you to appreciate how a thermal system should operate to maximise its efficiency and reduce energy losses, and thus evaluate its economic viability. Such issues are relevant to renewable energy.  You will have the opportunity to experience a number of working cycles both in class and through formal labs on refrigeration, for which you will also have the opportunity to learn how to write a well-structured scientific report.  The module should make a nice link with topics on energy management and energy storage.

This module builds on  first year thermodynamics material by looking at more advanced and practical examples. Historically, national and global development has progressed hand in hand with the evolving methods through which finite natural energy resources such as petroleum, natural gas and coal have been harnessed and distributed.

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ENE2009: Renewable Energy Systems 1

Renewable Energy Systems is an introductory module that focuses on the concepts of energy and renewable energy sources, providing background understanding of renewable resources and technologies to enable you to study the in-depth specialist technology modules offered in Year 3. You will apply your background in science, engineering and scientific computing from Year 1 to various renewable energy technologies.

The module sets-out briefly the historical overview of the energy landscape, before focusing on four major elements of renewable energy: wind, solar, marine and renewable heat. It will provide you with an opportunity to apply your knowledge of computational tools to understand the resource for various renewable energy sources.

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ENE2014: Energy Policy, Markets and Law

The module introduces the key elements that shape which energy technologies are deployed, and how policy, economic and social factors can shape innovation and deployment of new energy technologies. The module introduces and explains basic elements such as how legislation is developed and used as a tool to shape policy and then moves from there to explain UK and other renewable energy policy, the barriers to growth and the successes and failures of different policy instruments. Students should finish the module with both an understanding of what shapes policy and the shape of current UK renewable energy policy.

There are no pre-requisites for this module, and it is available to all students.

1) To provide candidates with the opportunity to develop a sound understanding of basic economic principles and knowledge of how these apply in the energy sector;

2) To provide candidates with an understanding of the basic structure of the market for electricity delivery and an introduction to regulation pertinent to its operation;

3) To enable an understanding of the social, economic and other diverse barriers to deployment of renewable energy sources and the policy instruments that have been employed to overcome them;

4) To introduce candidates to other elements of sustainable energy practice and the policy relating to it, for example, conflicting policy goals, energy efficiency, demand side management and smart grids.

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ENE2015: Energy Management and Building Systems

With energy prices soaring and governments striving to meet global emissions targets, energy management is becoming increasingly important. Linked to these factors are great opportunities to embed generation, take advantage of renewable energy policies and adopt new technologies.

By taking this module, you will not only acquire specific knowledge of energy management but also begin to develop the critical skills needed to become an energy professional. This module is suitable for you if you are studying energy as a subject area and are familiar with the terminology and SI units used to describe energy and power. You will also need to be engaged in concurrent learning of (or have existing knowledge of) electrical power systems / machines and thermodynamics.

The module is designed to help you appreciate the importance of managing energy as a resource and to learn the fundamentals of energy management. Furthermore, it aims to help you understand the opportunities that exist for improving energy conversion efficiency, reducing energy waste and embedding energy generation / conversion into a demand centre.

By the end of this module, you will be able to conduct energy use audits in commercial premises and implement targeting and monitoring regimes including the specification of appropriate instrumentation.

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ENE2018: Fluid Mechanics

This is an applied module, which aims to develop your understanding of the continuity and energy equations used to solve fluid problems of relevance to both mining and renewable applications. By taking this module, you will develop an appreciation of energy loss in fluid flows, and learn about dimensional analysis techniques and how they are applied to wide range of analytical and experimental situations.

The module is based on a typical engineering undergraduate course but the engineering skills covered are directly important for mining and renewable energy fields.

Some of the content of the module may be useful for civil engineering-based discipline.

The aim of this course is to expand on the basic principles of the Thermodynamics and Fluid Mechanics module, particularly with respect to fluid flow, and help you appreciate the relevance of these principles to real life situations such as flow in pipelines and the design of pump and hydraulic systems.

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ENE2020: Discipline Group Challenge Project

This module is designed for students to develop the technical expertise and professional skills essential for a career in renewable energy, systems engineering and environmental engineering. Using project-based learning, the students will focus on the application of engineering principles to develop innovative solutions and mitigate environmental impact. Working in teams, you will tackle a real-world challenge relevant to your engineering discipline. Emphasis is placed on practical skills development, data analysis, risk assessment, and regulatory compliance. You will also gain hands-on experience in problem-solving, project management, and technical reporting, preparing to prepare you for industry roles.

This module will enable you to apply your engineering knowledge to a real-life renewable energy system design focusing on improved power capture and reduced environmental impact. This will be done through a combination of background research, practical sills workshops, environmental data collection and analysis, and development of sustainable solutions. The module is designed to:

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ENE3014: Penryn Engineering Year in Industry

The Year in Industry module will provide you with an opportunity to undertake practical work experience in a business, commercial or public sector renewable energy-related environment that is of direct relevance to your development as an experienced professional. You will apply the knowledge and skills from taught modules in the workplace, which will give you important insights into your potential job role once you graduate from university. You will be responsible for finding your own placement (with support from the Student Experience and Employability Team and the Career Zone). All paperwork to support the approval of the placement must be submitted by you and approved by the module leader at least 4 weeks in advance of the start date for your placement. You can undertake your work placement in the UK, or other approved international setting.

The aim of this module is to provide practical work experience in a business, commercial or public sector setting that is of direct relevance to the subject-specific aims of your degree programme. Crucially, the module will also develop and enhance critical soft skills which are in demand for graduate roles, e.g. communication, team working, time management, planning, resilience, commercial awareness.

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ENE3002: Network Engineering, Monitoring and Management

This module has been designed to develop your knowledge of power electronics and power systems, data acquisition and automation. The future grid will see more integration of renewable energy sources (RES) and, thus, it is vital to understand power electronics, which is the enabling technology for integrating RES to the Grid. You will also learn the basic skills for modelling and analyzing the power network. Additionally, this module will allow you to gain hands-on experience in the practical aspects of data acquisition and control and associated software in the context of power electronic converters. You will have ‘hands-on’ interaction with sensors, data acquisition systems and control equipment. You will then be working in small groups on a chosen project to select sensor components data loggers, and actuators to assemble a data logging and control system for your project that could then be deployed ‘externally’. This is theoretical and practical course using lectures and laboratory-based exercises, and resulting in individual design and group design exercises.

Prerequisite module: ENE2003 or equivalent

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ENE3021: Renewable Energy Field Course

This module aims to provide you with a simulated industrial experience by positioning you as a team of renewable energy consultants. You will be immersed in a real problem environment and tasked with responding to a brief set by an external client. Working collaboratively, your team will develop credible solutions to the energy management, energy supply, or energy regulatory challenges presented. Through this process, you will deepen your understanding of how industrial, commercial, and public‑sector organisations operate and are managed.

The module is designed to develop a level of industrial awareness that goes beyond what can be achieved through theory alone. It also enables you to apply and strengthen your renewable energy knowledge so that you can deploy it independently and confidently upon graduation. This is an advanced module intended for students with substantial prior experience in renewable energy.

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ENE3023: Dissertation Project

The Third Year Dissertation offers you the opportunity to increase your depth of study into a particular area of renewable energy, environmental or systems engineering in line with your specific interests. It offers you the chance to develop an idea, design or test a device, review the literature, work with a local company or carry out another relevant piece of research. The dissertation might be in a specialist area where you want to develop your career, a plan for a piece of kit or just something that you would like to dig a bit deeper into. You will be provided with a list of possible topics each with an attached supervisor at the beginning of the year. You are welcome to come up with their own topic so long as they can find a supervisor on the academic staff. You are encouraged to have an external supervisor where appropriate, and this is especially encouraged where you are working with an external organisation. Every student on the module and must have a personal supervisor available for one-on-one tuition throughout the year. You are expected to plan meetings with supervisors on a regular basis. Evidence of supervisor meetings is required to demonstrate these have occurred, and this will be established as part of the submission process over the course of the year, along with other evidence of you taking a proactive approach to the management and delivery of your project.

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ENE3003: Marine Renewable Energy

Marine Renewable Energy is an advanced module covering marine (primarily wave and tidal) energy. The aim of this module is to provide you with a broad understanding of the technical, operational and environmental aspects of the wave and tidal energy industries. It has an initial focus on resource assessment, intending to equip you with the ability to calculate the available power at a site from raw data, and to perform, analyse and interpret resource assessment studies with direct relevance to device operation. It will then introduce you to wider operational aspects including offshore operations, environmental consenting and impacts, and ongoing challenges facing the industry. It includes a practical tutorial on the industry-standard wave modelling software SWAN, and development of programming and analysis skills using Matlab.

This is a specialist module that requires a good level of mathematical and computational ability, and is not recommended for interdisciplinary pathways.

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ENE3004: Life Cycle Analysis

This module introduces you to the concept, methodologies and available tools and databases of life cycle analysis (LCA) and its applications in the energy industry, covering different energy generation and consumption technologies.

The module is suitable for all students that have completed the first 2 years on the undergraduate BSc and MEng Renewable Energy degree programmes and is recommended for interdisciplinary pathways involving similar studies.

This module aims to give you a holistic view of the sustainability of different energy technologies, covering technical, environmental, economic and social aspects, as well as practical skills to conduct life cycle analysis.

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ENE3005: Wind Energy

Wind energy is the foremost renewable energy technology in the UK and much of the rest of the world.

This is an advanced course providing practical training in wind farm site development including wind resource estimation, turbine selection, site constraints, environmental management and financial feasibility analysis.

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ENE3007: Energy Storage Technology

Renewable energy is expected to provide a central solution to our need for a sustainable fuel. However, major challenges presented by renewable energies, such as fluctuations in output, unavailability, and unpredictability, limit their popularity. As a solution to these problems, energy storage technology (EST) is growing in significance. EST is to convert/store energy and to release energy in a controlled fashion when required, which improves energy efficiency and stabilizes operation of electricity grid.

In this module students will obtain general understanding of a number of energy storage systems. Technologies such as mechanical energy storage system (e.g. pumped hydro, compressed air), hydrocarbon storage, lithium ion battery, redox flow battery, lead acid battery, hydrogen and fuel cells, and thermal energy storage will be studied in terms of principles of operation, characteristics, development progress and challenges.

The aim of this module is to introduce and evaluate major energy storage systems. Some key concepts, techniques and strategic choices will be explored including principles and fundamentals of EST, operation parameters, design consideration and system optimisation. In addition, cost effectiveness, environmental compatibility and energy/materials sustainability will be taken into consideration.

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ENE3009: Solar Power

This is an extensive course covering all aspects of solar energy conversion including: solar resource estimation, solar photovoltaic technologies, solar thermal conversion technologies, equipment design and selection, system design and deployment. This includes physics of solar energy conversion, physics of solar photovoltaic technology, different technologies for conversion of solar energy into electricity and technology for conversion of solar energy into thermal energy based systems. In addition, integration and deployment challenges of solar energy conversion devices will be highlighted.

An extensive course covering all aspects of solar energy conversion: solar resources estimation, solar photovoltaic conversion technologies and solar thermal conversion technologies. This will enable students to estimate, design, implement and deploy solar systems and power plants. An exclusive focus will be given towards solar system integrated into the residential and commercial buildings.

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ENE3010: Sustainable Architecture

A module to explore sustainability in the built environment. How can land, building materials, resources and energy be employed to a community’s advantage but with low levels of long term, irreversible and environmental impact? The module looks for design ingenuity, sustainable building practices, lowering of energy and resource demand, but without necessarily any fall in building quality or enjoyment! Building regulations and safety must still be met ….. and how can we measure the sustainability and performance of a building?

Many of the subjects modules in years 1, 2 and 3 of the Renewable Energy undergraduate degree course are considered Co-requisite and usefully beneficial to this module (see towards the end of this document). Similarly the Renewable Energy module  within the MSc postgraduate course is considered co-requisite.

Co-requisite module note: Many of the Renewable Energy year-1 to 3 undergrad, and term-1 MSc postgrad, modules are valuable co-requisite modules, but none are absolutely essential to allow a good student to successfully study this module.

This module aims to develop architectural design capability in candidates, building on acquired knowledge of Energy Management principles and practice covered in Year 2 (undergraduate programmes) and Term-1 for MSc postgraduate.

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