Course Code and Title: RENT 6008 – Electrical Integration of Renewables

Semester and Level: Semester II

Course Type: Core

Credits: 3

Mode of Delivery: Blended 

 

1.         Course Description

The integration of generators powered from renewable energy sources is fundamentally similar to that of fossil-fuelled generators and is based on the same principles; but, renewable energy sources are often intermittent and dispersed (large numbers of relatively small generators) and these factors must be considered. This module applies the well-established principles of electrical engineering to the subject of integrating generators powered from renewable energy sources into electrical power systems, small and large.

 

2.         Course Evaluation: 100% coursework      

 

  • 1 Lab                                      20%
  • 1 Field trip                              10%
  • 1 Assignment                          20%
  • 2 Assignments                        50%

 

3.         Rationale

Electrical integration of renewable energy is often overlooked, but it is a crucial aspect of the renewable energy field. Electricity generated from both renewable energy and fossil fuels is very convenient to transport and use. The design of the electrical system is rarely trivial and the proper integration of any electrical generator into an electrical power system requires knowledge of the well-established principles of electrical engineering. This course provides this very important aspect of the development of renewable energy.

 

4.         Course Aims
  • Describe the operation of utility grids.
  • Differentiate between embedded and distributed generation.
  • Determine implications of the RE systems connections with utility grids.
  • Perform experiments of RE energy integrated with an electric grid.

 

5.         Course Learning Outcomes

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

  1. Explain the principles of operation of island wide utility grids.
  2. Compare embedded generation with distributed generation.
  3. Describe the benefits and the issues of large scale embedded generation.
  4. Describe grid factors that influence the penetration of renewables.
  5. Perform power system analysis of utility grids in order to determine the implications of the connection of RE systems.
  6. Propose solutions to minimize the occurrence of network faults.
  7. Differentiate between the various power electronic interface options available.
  8. Perform detailed simulation experiments of an electric grid with renewable energy integrated into it.
  9. Communicate results of simulation experiments concisely via written and verbal reports.

 

6.         Course Content/Syllabus

Topics include the following: Stand-alone versus grid connected generation; Penetration from renewables; Demand curves; Importance of aggregation and interconnected networks; Energy efficiency; Demand side management-deferrable loads, Grid characteristics; Power Systems analysis; Network Analysis; Power System control; Power System Operation; Power Electronic Interfaces and Embedded Generation.

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