College: Technology

This major focuses on renewable and sustainable energy sources such as solar energy, wind energy, hydropower, geothermal energy, and bioenergy. The program emphasizes technological innovation, environmental sustainability, and engineering principles to address global energy challenges. Graduates are prepared to work in renewable energy companies, research institutions, government agencies, and environmental consulting firms.

Learning Objectives:

• Understand alternative energy sources and their applications.
• Develop skills in designing and managing renewable energy systems.
• Learn techniques for efficiency analysis, sustainability, and environmental impact.
• Explore the role of alternative energy in addressing climate change and energy security.
• Understand regulatory standards, ethical considerations, and sustainability practices.
• Analyze challenges and opportunities in the alternative energy field.
• Develop teamwork and problem-solving skills for renewable energy projects.

Main Outline:

1. Introduction to Alternative Energy Sources
   • Overview of alternative energy sources and their global significance.
   • Basics of energy principles and sustainability.
2. Solar Energy
   • Principles of solar energy and photovoltaic systems.
   • Techniques for designing and maintaining solar energy systems.
3. Wind Energy
   • Basics of wind energy and wind turbine technology.
   • Techniques for wind resource assessment and integrating wind energy into the grid.
4. Hydropower
   • Principles of hydropower and hydroelectric plants.
   • Techniques for designing and managing hydropower projects.
5. Geothermal Energy
   • Basics of geothermal energy and geothermal power plants.
   • Techniques for exploring geothermal energy resources and developing projects.
6. Bioenergy
   • Principles of bioenergy, including biomass and biofuels.
   • Techniques for producing and using bioenergy.
7. Energy Storage and Grid Integration
   • Methods of energy storage and integrating renewable sources into the grid.
8. Environmental Impact and Sustainability
   • Understanding and mitigating the environmental impact of renewable energy projects.
9. Regulatory Standards and Ethical Considerations
   • Understanding regulatory standards and promoting ethical practices.
10. Emerging Trends in Alternative Energy
    • Analyzing innovations such as energy efficiency and smart grids.
11. Capstone Project
    • A real-world project to apply skills acquired in renewable energy systems.

Assessment Methods:

Designs for renewable energy projects, feasibility studies, environmental impact assessments, research papers, group projects, and internships.

Recommended Textbooks:

• "Renewable Energy: A First Course" by John K. Kaldellis.
• "Solar Energy Engineering: Processes and Systems" by Sotirios A. Kalogirou.
• "Wind Energy: The Facts" by David Milborrow.

Prerequisites:

Basic knowledge of physics, mathematics, and environmental sciences. Suitable for students in engineering, environmental sciences, and related fields.

Duration of Specialization:

Typically 4 years to earn a bachelor's degree, including coursework, projects, and internships.

Certification:

Graduates may earn a degree in alternative energy sources and pursue certifications such as Certified Energy Manager (CEM) or Renewable Energy Professional (REP).

Target Audience:

Aspiring renewable energy engineers, environmental scientists, and sustainability specialists seeking to specialize in alternative energy sources and sustainable development. This major equips students with the skills needed to excel in alternative energy sources, supporting advances in renewable energy technology and global energy security.