Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

The topics covered in this unit include (1) power system fundamentals—power and power factor, power quality and three-phase systems; (2) solar power systems—basics of solar spectrum, panel placement and irradiance variation, semiconductor materials, photovoltaic cells, current-voltage (I–V) characteristics, effect of temperature, irradiance, shading on I–V curves, crystalline and thin-film technologies, grid-connected and stand-alone systems, capacity factors and economics; and (3) wind power systems—wind power and energy, wind turbine aerodynamics, wind turbine generators, speed control, performance calculations and economics. The practical implementation involves commercial energy market context in Western Australia, including load balancing support requirements, the role of storage, transmission constraints and smart network infrastructure development. The academic objectives of the unit are to understand the basics of electrical power systems, power industry, energy economics, the working of wind power systems and the working of solar photovoltaic systems.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 2UWA (Perth)Face to face
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) understand power system fundamentals (circuit laws, power system components, power triangle, three-phase systems, power quality; (2) analyse the performance of different renewable energy sources; (3) analyse the energy conversion processes utilised in renewable energy technologies; (4) evaluate the economic, environmental and social impacts of renewable energy systems; (5) understand the role of energy storage systems in supporting the integration of renewables into power systems; and (6) communicate clearly, effectively and appropriately using written and visual means.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) class tests; (2) assignment; and (3) weekly quizzes. Further information is available in the unit outline.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Dr Herbert Iu (00050383)
Unit rules
Prerequisites
Enrolment in 62550 Master of Professional Engineering
Chemical Engineering specialisation, Electrical and Electronic Engineering specialisation, Environmental Engineering specialisation, Mechanical Engineering specialisation,
or Mining Engineering specialisation
or
Enrolment in
Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) or an associated Combined Degree
and Successful completion of
120 Points
and ENSC2003 Engineering Electrical Fundamentals and ( MATH1012 Mathematical Theory and Methods
or MATX1012 Mathematical Theory and Methods
)
or Enrolment in
62520 Master of Low Emission Energy Technologies
Incompatibility
CHPR4403 Future Energy
Advisable prior study
ENSC2002 Energy
or (ENSC2003 Electrical Engineering Fundamentals
and ENSC2004 Engineering Mechanics)
and MATH1012 Mathematical Theory and Methods
Contact hours
lectures and practical classes
  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Unit readings, including any essential textbooks, are listed in the unit outline for each unit, one week prior the commencement of study. The unit outline will be available via the LMS and the UWA Handbook one week prior the commencement of study. Reading lists and essential textbooks are subject to change each semester. Information on essential textbooks will also be made available on the Essential Textbooks. This website is updated regularly in the lead up to semester so content may change. It is recommended that students purchase essential textbooks for convenience due to the frequency with which they will be required during the unit. A limited number of textbooks will be made available from the Library in print and will also be made available online wherever possible. Essential textbooks can be purchased from the commercial vendors to secure the best deal. The Student Guild can provide assistance on where to purchase books if required. Books can be purchased second hand at the Guild Secondhand bookshop (second floor, Guild Village), which is located on campus.
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.