Course Code and Title: RENT 6009 – Hydro and Marine Power

Semester and Level: Semester II

Course Type: Elective

Credits: 3

Mode of Delivery: Online

 

  1. Course Description

In this module the principles surrounding the generation of electricity from water will be examined.  River, wave and ocean thermal resources are studied, as well as planning and environmental issues. Turbine and generator system design forms a major theme in this module as well as the thermal dynamics of ocean thermal technologies.

 

  1.  Course Evaluation: 100% coursework      

 

  • Lab                          40%
  • Assignments             60%

 

  1.  Rationale

The Caribbean has unexplored potential for hydropower and various forms of marine power (wave and ocean thermal in particular). However, there are few persons in the region with the necessary knowledge and skills to engage in the development of these resources. This course will provide the initial knowledge and skills base to help jump-start the development of the resources.

 

  1. Course Aims
  • Understand water power options and its availability in the Caribbean region.
  • Differentiate between small scale and large scale hydropower.
  • Perform calculations and resource assessments on various hydro and marine technologies for use in the Caribbean and worldwide.
  • Analyse economic feasibility of hydropower options.

 

  1.  Course Learning Outcomes

            On completion of this course, the graduates will be able to:

  1. Describe the various waterpower options and their specific availability in the Caribbean region.
  2. Apply physical theories to fluid technologies.
  3. Discuss large and small-scale hydropower options and intricacies.
  4. Discuss the site-specific applicability of the different categories of turbine designs.
  5. Determine the economic feasibility of hydropower options.
  6. Describe appropriate wave power technologies from the wide range of options available for onshore, near shore and offshore situations.
  7. Perform calculations to select appropriate wave power technologies.
  8. Assess various ocean thermal technologies (e.g. OTEC and sea water cooling/heating) and tidal technologies for use in the Caribbean and worldwide.
  9. Perform experiments and computer-based resource assessments for hydro and marine power.
  10. Evaluate peer-reviewed literature.
  11. Communicate concisely via written lab reports or essays.

 

  1.  Course Content/Syllabus

Topics include the following: Global resource; Water cycle; Historical background of technologies and modern use; Environmental impact; Hydro resource assessment; Hydro power; wave power; ocean thermal devices and tidal power.

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