School of Construction Management and Engineering MSC Renewable Energy - A Review

Transcription

1 School of Construction Management and Engineering MSc Renewable Energy: Technology and Sustainability Energy for a sustainable future 1 Postgraduate

2 A well-established programme with an international reputation which has attracted students from over 70 countries since The course will equip students with globally sought after skills, thereby maximising employability. This unique programme examines the technical and policy questions arising from global demands for secure, affordable and sustainable energy. The School of Construction Management and Engineering is an internationally recognised centre of excellence in the area of sustainability. The course contents are suited to graduates from a variety of backgrounds. Closely aligned with the Innovative and Sustainable Technologies (IST) research group within the School of Construction Management and Engineering. A series of site visits throughout the year and invited industry experts will expose the students to some of the technology in the field. Teaching is informed by the latest research of the School s internationally leading academics, complemented by selected experts in renewable energy. Academic excellence combined with a focus on real-world problems. MSc Renewable Energy: Technology and Sustainability The Postgraduate programme in Renewable Energy: Technology and Sustainability aims to provide students with a robust understanding of the applications of renewable energy and sustainable technology, combined with a strong awareness of the impact on the environment of using non sustainable technologies. The programme examines the technical and policy questions arising from global demands for secure, affordable and sustainable energy. The course covers rapidly evolving fields that are vitally relevant to how society develops in the 21st Century. There is international concern about the environmental damage associated with the conversion of energy from all sources. Renewable energy sources can make a significant contribution to the reduction of pollution, if used in a sustainable way. Renewable fuels and energy systems can also offer protection against future shortages and price increases of conventional energy, and can provide energy supplies in remote areas. The School of Construction Management and Engineering is an internationally recognised centre of excellence for teaching and research in the built environment; we aim to broaden your horizons and teach you to think differently. The reputation of the School is based on the authority of its academic staff, all of whom have extensive research and consultancy experience. The School is truly multi-disciplinary in nature with over thirty members of full-time academic staff, including eight Professors. The School boasts a diverse and inclusive environment which continually attracts the industry leaders of tomorrow. The School is among the strongest within the University in terms of international students. We are international both in terms of outlook, and in terms of our faculty. You can be sure of the warmest of welcomes, together with exemplary academic and pastoral support. Our courses 12 months full-time 2 years part-time PGD Renewable Energy: Technology and Sustainability 8 months full-time Standard offers Candidates should hold a good first degree in a relevant subject area, including environmental science, mathematics, engineering, physics, construction, geography, agriculture, chemistry, geology, economics, planning and management, business studies, computer science. 2 1

3 Why choose Reading? The University of Reading is recognised as being in the top 1% of global universities and as one of the UK s top 20 research-intensive universities. Nearly 90% of our research has been rated as being of international standing (RAE 2008). We have a long history of welcoming international students and currently host a thriving international community of around 3,500 international students from 130 countries. 89% of our students reported being satisfied with their experience at Reading, with 92% of international students saying they were satisfied/very satisfied with the support they received. International students, both undergraduate and postgraduate, are guaranteed a place in university accommodation if they apply for a room with a firm offer from the University before 1 August. Other reasons for international students to come to Reading include the following: The Whiteknights campus is set in 130 hectares of beautiful parkland, with green open spaces, a lake and plenty of trees and wildlife. We have recently invested over 100 million in the redevelopment of campus facilities, including halls of residence and the Sports Park. The town of Reading is home to a large shopping and recreational centre, as well as being located close to London, Oxford and Birmingham, all of which make great day trips. The University of Reading has a thriving Student Union providing entertainment and student support. There are over 100 sports clubs and societies. The University of Reading is recognised as being in the top 1% of global universities. The School of Construction Management and Engineering is an internationally recognised centre of excellence for teaching and research; we aim to broaden your horizons and teach you to think differently. The reputation of the School is based on the authority of its academic staff, who have extensive research and consultancy experience. The School is truly multidisciplinary in nature with over thirty members of full-time academic staff, including eight Professors. The School boasts a diverse and inclusive environment which continually attracts the construction leaders of tomorrow. The School is among the strongest within the University in terms of international students. We are international both in terms of outlook, and in terms of our faculty. You can be sure of the warmest of welcomes, together with exemplary academic and pastoral support. I selected Reading because it offered the only MSC course in renewable energy which combined a high standard of academic excellence with a solid grounding in engineering, whilst being open to nonengineering graduates like myself. The course has delivered on all of these grounds as well as exceeding my expectations in terms of its collaborative and non-stuffy organisational culture. The academic and admin staff are approachable and supportive and this makes us feel more like a family than as components in a machine, which is sometimes the case in higher education. I think these factors made it extremely easy for us all to bond into a group as students and friends, which has in turn reinforced our learning experience and made it a very enjoyable one. I would have no hesitation in recommending the MSC in Renewable Energy to anyone. Mike Medas MSC student, 2013 Research projects MSc candidates undertake an individual research project, which allows a detailed investigation of a particular aspect of the course. Projects can involve modelling, design and practical work. A number of projects will be proposed and supported by industrial partners, whilst candidates may also suggest project ideas from their own experience. The project is assessed through a written dissertation and seminar. Annual project presentations are well attended by industry representatives and supporters of the course. Recent projects have included: Feasibility study into locally sourced straw-fired energy production for a small town in Southern England. The heating potential by ground source heat pumps based on the geology of Reading. Is hydropower a viable option for distributed renewable generation in London? Determining the ideal renewable electricity Investment in the UK. An investigation to understand the effects of the application of greywater to green roofs. Reconciling UK static wind capacity data and an assessment of the factors impacting wind capacity growth to Potential inaccuracy of the UK Tidal Stream Resource Estimate; a review of alternative methods for estimating energy tidal currents. Facilities The School is well endowed in terms of research infrastructure, with approximately 300m2 of laboratory space together with a supporting machine workshop. Facilities include a dedicated environmental chamber, a grey water facility, a photovoltaic roof and a recently refurbished wind tunnel. The laboratories are especially important in supporting students to conduct experimental work. There is also an extensive range of materials-testing equipment which is available to support students. The School possesses a dedicated innovation lab which utilises a range of digital technologies, including 3D laser scanners for the purposes of creating digital models of physical spaces. Access is available to the 3D immersive VR facility located within the School of Systems Engineering (SSE). Teaching facilities include a dedicated computer lounge equipped with the latest digital technology to support experimentation in building information modelling (BIM). Software is also available to support the teaching of building energy simulations and urban microclimate modelling. 2 3

4 Core modules Energy, Carbon and Environment Energy underpins our current standard of living and economic development. The environmental impact of energy use and transition to a lower carbon economy presents significant challenges. This module is concerned with an introduction to the technical, environmental, economic and social issues associated with the production of energy. It includes an introduction to energy production and consumption trends, traditional means of energy production, renewable energy, sustainability, environmental issues and political and economic concepts in energy. Sustainable Heat and Power 40 credits Students are introduced to renewable energy technologies. These include biomass, solar, wind, hydro and marine energy. Technical, environmental and social issues are considered. Technologies associated with the production of power from renewable energy sources are described. Technical and non-technical barriers and issues limiting wide spread use of renewable energy are discussed. Assessment through laboratory based, software and group activities gives students an opportunity to examine and analyse data as well as to investigate issues concerned with the use of renewable energy. Energy in Buildings Comprises, a comprehensive overview of energy use in buildings. Coverage comprises an introduction to renewable energy technologies and methods for improving energy efficiency in buildings, including environmental architectural design, environmental systems operation and adaptive occupant behaviour. Particular emphasis is given to tools and procedures for the assessment of building energy consumption. Energy in Buildings part two Students will gain an understanding of building simulation with handson experience of using commercial software packages such as Integrated Environmental Solutions (IES). ICT and Energy Management Focuses on people-centred energy efficiency in the operation phase of the building life cycle. A particular emphasis is placed on the use of ICT approaches for monitoring and managing energy consumption in buildings. The module addresses information and building energy technologies and their application to inform, engage and empower building users to achieve substantial energy savings at modest cost. In addition to technical approaches for achieving energy efficiency in buildings, attention is also given to organisational barriers and the need to develop an awareness of relevant regulations. Quality systems also have an important role to play in achieving energy efficiency. Students gain hands-on experience of the latest digital technologies and energy data processing software, thereby enhancing their employability. Research methods Students will learn how to access the necessary sources to conduct a critical literature review on a topic of their choice which is relevant to their degree programme. The module is specifically designed to assist students in the preparation of their final project/dissertation. Coverage includes the need to identify gaps in current knowledge, formulation of a focused research question and the development of a full research proposal. Research planning is addressed to ensure successful completion within the allocated timescale. Additional topics covered include the preparation of professional quality reports and an understanding of ethical issues relating to research involving human subjects. Different types of research are covered together with the use of different research methods. Students also gain training and practical experience in the oral presentation of research findings. 4 5

5 Core modules (cont...) Carbon management Frames the need for carbon management against the scientific understanding of climate change, noting how clear understanding of scientific uncertainty is fundamental in developing appropriate carbon management policy and actions. Explores political, economic and technological responses to climate change, recognising how these are/ can be implemented across a range of scales from global / regional agreements, through national policy approaches, down to actions taken by businesses and individuals. Carbon Management and Analysis Builds on the Carbon Management module to develop analytical and investigative skills, essential to consultancy and policy advisory roles and of increasing value to business. Assesses the effectiveness of political, economic and technological responses to climate change, recognising how initiatives can be applied at a range of scales and contexts. Sustainable Urban Systems Consideration of urban energy systems is used to introduce wider systems thinking approaches that offer new insights and currently have an evolving place in energy and sustainability research. Emerging technologies, especially alternative vehicles and electricity based heating systems, have potential to bring a rapid change in demand on energy systems. This module will consider the possible impacts of such changes and appropriate mitigation approaches, including the emergence of smarter energy grids. Project Management for Engineering and Construction A study of contemporary project management as a discipline and the use of various tools and their application to construction and renewable energy projects. MSc Project, Dissertation and Seminar 60 credits Dissertations are written during the summer term and summer vacation and are between 12,000 15,000 words on a theme of interest to the student, in accordance with the aims of the degree programme. Related subjects MSc in Design and Management of Sustainable Built Environments MSc in Construction Management MSc in Project Management MSc in Construction Cost Management MSc in Construction in Emerging Economies Research degrees In addition to taught programmes, we offer research degrees. For more information about the availability of research degrees, please contact k.j.saxelby-smith@reading.ac.uk, phone or visit cme-pgr-about.aspx 6 7

6 Employability The School has international alumni spread throughout the globe. Many are in senior positions within governments, NGOs or the private sector. Graduates from the MSc in Renewable Energy: Technology and Sustainability will be uniquely equipped to engage with the challenges of reducing the carbon footprint of energy generation and use. Students acquire the expertise and skills to significantly enhance their employability options in a wide range of energy and sustainability-related occupations. Particular attention is given to the development of research skills and critical thinking ability. The specific aim is to develop specialist skills. These arise from the student s exposure to theory, research and methods of critical evaluation, whilst enabling career development. Continuous Professional Development Individual modules may be taken as part of a personal Continuing Professional Development (CPD) programme. CPD delegates are not assessed and only attend module sessions. A University certificate is awarded on completion of each module. Careers options All subjects at Reading offer access to our Careers Advisory Service. It is designed to open doors, launch our students careers and ensure they are well equipped to make the most of their potential and the job opportunities ahead. Common careers include: Energy Officer Sustainability Consultant Sustainable Energy Consultant Renewables Engineer Renewables Consultant Technical Director Project Analyst Researcher Sales and Marketing Specialist Design Engineer For more information on our Careers Advisory Service, visit Funding There are a range of possibilities of accessing funding to participate in our programmes. The Panasonic Trust Fellowships - for UK students with first degrees in Engineering; more information available from the Royal Academy of Engineering, The Wallace and Muriel Hirst Fund - bursaries for international students from developing countries and territories identified for OECD official development aid, particularly people who are working in the field of renewable energy. The fund is available every other year. Suitable candidates are invited to apply for the studentship once an offer of a place on the course has been made. e8 scholarship programme for international students from developing countries and territories identified for OECD official development aid. For more information, University studentships information available from A good starting point for international students seeking funding is to contact their local British Council office. Further information is available from their website: Our staff The course is led by research active academic staff. Specialist expertise is provided by a number of visiting experts who contribute to the course as external lecturers. Dr Maria Vahdati Director MSc Renewable Energy: Technology and Sustainability m.m.vahdati@reading.ac.uk Dr Phil Coker Lecturer in Renewable Energy p.coker@reading.ac.uk Professor Tim Dixon Chair in Sustainable Futures in the Built Environment t.j.dixon@reading.ac.uk Dr Emmanuel Essah Lecturer in Sustainable Technologies e.a.essah@reading.ac.uk Dr Katherine Hyde Lecturer in Environmental Sustainability k.hyde@reading.ac.uk Dr Zhiwen Luo Lecturer in Sustainable Technologies z.luo@reading.ac.uk Dr Michael Peters Lecturer in Energy Policy m.d.peters@reading.ac.uk Professor Li Shao Chair in Sustainable Technologies in the Built Environment l.shao@reading.ac.uk Dr Stefan Smith Lecturer in Energy Systems in the Built Environment s.t.smith@reading.ac.uk Dr Jacopo Torriti Lecturer in Energy Economics and Policy j.torriti@reading.ac.uk Professor Runming Yao Director MSc Design and Management of Sustainable Built Environments and Chair in Building and Urban Sustainability r.yao@reading.ac.uk Further details of staff can be found here 8 9

7 The University of Reading is committed to equal opportunities and diversity. Whilst the University of Reading makes every effort to ensure that the contents and statements made in this publication are fair and accurate, it can accept no liability for omissions, errors or subsequent changes. The statements made and information provided are a general guide and there may be changes following publication which affect the contents. Programmes or modules may be altered or withdrawn without notice and assessment arrangements may be changed. For details of any changes made since publication, please refer to the website address at the bottom of this page. This document is University of Reading It was designed and printed in July MSc Renewable Energy: Technology and Sustainability For more information, please contact: Programme Administrator MSc Renewable Energy School of Construction Management and Engineering University of Reading Whiteknights Reading, RG6 6AW renewables.msc@reading.ac.uk Tel (0118) Fax (0118) B