MSc Sustainable Energy Technologies (H1A0)
Applications accepted for 1st October 2018:
The development of sustainable and renewable methods for energy supply is a global priority, driven by the impacts of carbon-based fossil fuel use on the environment, as well as dwindling reserves fossil fuels. The main challenges in the shift away from fossil fuel based power generation lie in the development of sustainable energy technologies, ranging from the engineering of new materials to the integration of these technologies into power distribution networks. Students on this course will gain in-depth and advanced knowledge of a diverse range of sustainable energy technologies, including wind, solar, fuel cells and bioenergy.
The course provides the fundamental scientific and technical aspects of sustainable energy technologies. Students will be introduced to key enabling technologies, including electrical, electrochemical, mechanical and thermal aspects.
This course is aimed at graduate engineers who wish to pursue a career in the energy industry or those wishing to pursue a career in research through PhD study. Teaching is underpinned by research activities in the following areas:
- Bioenergy
- Energy storage
- Fuel cells
- Batteries
- Electrical and thermal energy systems
- Sustainable chemical processes and materials
- Power systems
- Power electronics for the grid
The University has links with a wide range of institutions both within the UK and internationally and the School benefits from research collaboration with many of these other academic and industrial organisations.
Contact
For enquiries, please contact the Course Coordinator: Dr Degirmenci
Degree title
Degree of Master of Science in Sustainable Energy Technologies (MSc)
Course structure and content
The MSc degree (totalling 180 credits) comprises:
- Eight taught modules (15 credits each): Four core modules and four optional modules (see below)
- A research project worth 60 credits (see below)
Core modules
- Fuel Cells and Energy Storage (ES96X)
This module introduces you to the principles of energy storage and fuel cell technologies, together with their applications. You will gain a firm grounding in the thermodynamics and reaction kinetics of electrochemical cells, factors affecting performance, requirements for different application areas and economic/technological barriers. Guest lectures from industry will discuss in detail the R&D needs for next generation fuel cell and battery technologies.
- Renewable Energy (ES4E0)
This module assesses the main renewable energy technologies, including details of the engineering design and development. The course adopts an active solution-seeking approach, assessing existing and proposed renewable energy systems against economic, engineering and other criteria. Two of the most promising technologies, wind power and solar energy, are covered in some depth. Geothermal, biomass, ocean and hydro power are also studied.
- Bioenergy and Biotechnology (ES97B)
This module provides gives you a sound understanding of biomass feedstocks, first and second generation biofuels, bioheat and biopower, energy from waste and biorefineries. Technologies, regulatory and fiscal drivers, logistics and environmental impacts, power trading schemes and process integration are also covered.
- Fuels and Combustion (ES4E4)
During this module you will develop a comprehensive understanding of fuels and the main combustion based technologies, including emerging technologies and the types of fuels (including biofuels) used for combustion. The module covers the fundamentals of combustion and the developments in conventional fuel use, options for alternative fuels and technologies and novel combustion technologies for a more sustainable future.
Optional modules (choose 4)
- Operation and Control of Power Systems (ES97A)
- Heat Transfer Theory and Design (ES4D9)
- Power Electronic Converters and Devices (ES4D4)
- Electrical Machines and Drives (ES96Z)
- Finite Element Methods (ES4B5)
- River Mixing (ES4D6)
- Thinking Water (IL905)
*Optional module lists are subject to change each year to keep the student learning experience current and up to date. We are currently reviewing the optional module list for Sustainable Energy Technologies and recommend that you check this webpage again in future for the most up-to-date information.
Individual project (ES97N)
The individual research project is an in-depth experimental, theoretical or computational investigation of a topic chosen by you in conjunction with an academic supervisor. Typical project titles include:
- Developing and testing an improved solar thermal collector (for hot water)
- Gearbox design for wind turbines to withstand electrical faults
- Energy footprint of power device fabrication
- Mathematical modelling of a zinc-cerium flow battery
- Motor drive simulation for hybrid electric vehicles
- Power electronic technologies for wind power generation
- Intelligent management of distributed generation
Entry requirements
A minimum of a Second Class Honours degree in a relevant branch of engineering or science from a UK university, or an equivalent qualification from an overseas university. For overseas students an English language certificate is also required.
Important note: All applicants will be expected to know the prescribed mathematical concepts. The onus is on the individual to ensure that they understand the required material. Essentially in order to cope easily with the course we are looking for competence in the majority of mathematics that is taught in the first and second year of an undergraduate Engineering or Physics course. We ask that you look at the problems shown on the link for the prescribed mathematical concepts and see if you can do them.
Industrial experience is not a requirement for entry but in cases where the candidate does not satisfy the academic requirements it may be taken into account.
