What do you picture when you hear the term “renewable energy?” Do you imagine fields of solar panels, giant windmills, or huge hydroelectric dams? Those are all examples of large-scale, grid-tied systems. In this course, we’ll go much smaller and focus on off-grid, stand-alone systems.
Exploring Renewable Energy Schemes
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Exploring Renewable Energy Schemes
Instructor: Jorge Santiago-Aviles
29,748 already enrolled
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Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
4.7
(610 reviews)
Beginner level
No prior experience required
Flexible schedule
Approx. 14 hours
Learn at your own pace
98%
Most learners liked this course
What you'll learn
Identify the essential characteristics and technical requirements of photovoltaic, wind, and low head hydroelectric energy systems.
Integrate scientific and technological principles necessary to assess and implement small-scale renewable energy schemes.
Develop a plan for implementing a small-scale renewable energy scheme.
Skills you'll gain
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Assessments
13 assignments
Taught in English
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There are 6 modules in this course
In this module, we’ll get started by getting familiar with the course and our community expectations. Then, we'll explore the solar spectrum, the Stefan Boltzmann Law, and Wien’s Displacement Law. Each plays a significant role in helping us capture as much energy as we can from the sun. We’ll also explore direct beam and diffuse radiation and consider the implications for solar panel orientation.
What's included
5 videos10 readings2 assignments1 discussion prompt
In this module, we’ll explore the essential element of any photovoltaic system: the solar cell. We’ll examine all aspects of the solar cell, moving from the single cell to a collection of cells that allow us to harness the sun’s power.
What's included
5 videos3 readings3 assignments1 discussion prompt
The charge controller is a key element of any simple photovoltaic system. This device helps you avoid over or under charging your battery or battery bank. In this module, we’ll focus on both charge controllers and inverters and their important role in photovoltaic systems.
What's included
3 videos4 readings2 assignments1 discussion prompt
In this module, we’ll start thinking about how to design a simple photovoltaic system. We’ll examine efficiency and develop strategies for determining the right components to meet our energy needs.
What's included
6 videos5 readings2 assignments1 discussion prompt
Humans have been harnessing the wind’s power for centuries. We’ve used it to help us sail ships, pump water, and grind gain. In modern times, we’re using wind energy to power our homes. The state of California, a pioneer in wind energy utilization, produces energy from its wind turbine farms in excess of 20 terawatts annually. That’s enough energy to power 3 million households.
What's included
5 videos3 readings2 assignments1 discussion prompt
In this module, we’ll explore the ways water can generate electricity and discuss the components of low-head hydroelectric systems.
What's included
4 videos3 readings2 assignments1 peer review1 discussion prompt
Instructor
Instructor ratings
4.8 (192 ratings)Offered by
Recommended if you're interested in Environmental Science and Sustainability
University of Colorado Boulder
University of Colorado Boulder
University of Colorado Boulder
University of Colorado Boulder
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