Soft (Renewable) Energy Sources

The aim of this course is to understand the fundamental principles related to energy production from renewable sources. More specifically economic, technical and environmental issues will be presented which is related to energy sources such as: - Solar energy and photovoltaic systems - Wind energy, - Geothermal energy, - Hydroelectric energy and - Energy from biomass.

Objectives

At the end of this course the student should learn: A. The basic types of renewable energy sources and the main technologies for their utilization B. The basics of solar engineering and wind potential/wind properties C. The way of photovoltaic (pv) modules operation, the different pv technologies and their basic properties. D.The way of wind turbines operation, the different types of wind turbines and their main properties E. The distinguish between passive and energetic thermal solar systems and their main applications in heating/cooling and electricity production F. The main types of geothermal energy and their application in heating/cooling and electricity production. G.The basic types and utilization methods of biomass

Prerequisites

There are no prerequisite courses. It is, however, recommended that students should have knowledge of basic energy balances and techno-economical analysis

Syllabus

A.Introduction to Renewable Energy Systems and utilization technologies. Current status in Greece, Europe and worldwide. B. Solar Engineering and solar energy. Basic equations for calculation of incident solar power on horizontal and incline level C. Photovoltaics for electricity production. Semiconductors, Photovoltaic cells and modules. Different PV technologies. Design of PV plants and technoeconomical analysis. D.Passive and energetic thermal solar systems for electricity production and heating/cooling applications. From solar collectors to solar towers. E. Wind power and basic wind properties. Production of mechanical and electrical energy from wind turbines. Main types of wind turbines. Design of wind plants and technoeconomical analysis. F. Geothermal energy and technologies for utilization of low and high enthalpy geothermal fields. G.Systems for production, storing and utilization of biomass products H.Small hydroelectric plants: Methods of energy production and environmental costs