RNEW 1010 - Renewable Energy Concepts

Credit Hours: 3.00
(3 contact hrs)
RNEW-1010 explores and investigates the sources, technologies, and applications of renewable energy. Topics include solar thermal and photovoltaic energy, wind energy, bioenergy, hydroelectricity, tidal and wave power, and geothermal resources. The focus is on technological principles, economic and environmental impact, integration, and policy. South Campus.

Prerequisites:
None

OUTCOMES AND OBJECTIVES
Outcome 1: Upon completion of the course, students will be able to define renewable energy.

Objectives:

Define direct and indirect energy usage
Recognize and demonstrate knowledge of present day use of renewable energy
Define and discuss future potential of renewable resources

Outcome 2: Upon completion of the course, students will be able to differentiate between the various forms of renewable energy.

Objectives:

Students will define and discuss the nature, economics, benefits, drawbacks and potential of solar thermal and photovoltaic energy.
Students will define and discuss the nature, economics, benefits, drawbacks and potential of biomass energy.
Students will define and discuss the nature, economics, benefits, drawbacks and potential of hydroelectricity.
Students will define and discuss the nature, economics, benefits, drawbacks and potential of tidal and wave power,
Students will define and discuss the nature, economics, benefits, drawbacks and potential of wind energy.
Students will define and discuss the nature, economics, benefits, drawbacks and potential of geothermal energy.
Students will define and discuss the nature, economics, benefits, drawbacks and potential of hydrogen fuel cells.

Outcome 3: Upon completion of the course, students will be able to identify the positive and negative consequences involved in the integration of renewable energy.

Objectives:

Describe and demonstrate knowledge of current energy structure and distribution
Describe and demonstrate knowledge of renewable resource availability
Identify and discuss transmission and storage issues
Define and discuss economic considerations
Describe and discuss potential solutions

COMMON DEGREE OUTCOMES
(Bulleted outcomes apply to the course)

1. The graduate can integrate the knowledge and technological skills necessary to be a successful learner.

2. The graduate can demonstrate how to think competently.

3. The graduate can demonstrate how to employ mathematical knowledge.

The graduate can demonstrate how to communicate competently.

5. The graduate is sensitive to issues relating to a diverse, global society.

COURSE CONTENT OUTLINE
Topic

Introduction to Renewable Energy
Solar Thermal Energy
Solar Photovoltaic’s
Review/Exam #1
Bioenergy
Hydroelectricity
Tidal Power
Review/Midterm Exam
Wind Energy
Wave Energy
Geothermal Energy
Review/Exam #3
Hydrogen Fuel Cells
Integration
Case Studies
Review and Final Exam

Primary Faculty
Richter, Lisa
Secondary Faculty

Associate Dean
Pawlowski, Timothy

Official Course Syllabus - Macomb Community College, 14500 E 12 Mile Road, Warren, MI 48088