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

This unit covers the basics and provides students with the information and knowledge to understand, design, and recognize high-performance PV systems. It emphasizes the importance of each step of the design process and proper decision-making. This unit is to provide students with basic information needed to understand the principles of PV systems operation, to identify appropriate applications and to undertake simple PV system designs. The unit offers information on solar radiations, efficiency, intermittency and storage solutions for PV systems. We also discuss different types of PV systems, such as CdTe, CIGS, SI, and organic PV systems, as well as economic and social aspects of PV systems.

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

Students are able to (1) analyse PV cell operating characteristics and equivalent circuits; (2) apply technical knowledge, appropriate tools and problem-solving skills to achieve a desired PV solution to satisfy user requirements; (3) evaluate PV and semiconductor models; (4) design basic PV cell systems; (5) evaluate the effects of shading on series and parallel connected cells; and (6) apply optical techniques to increase PV system energy yield.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) in-class assessment; (2) group project; and (3) a final examination. 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 Nima Dehdashtiakhavan
Unit rules
Prerequisites
Enrolment in 62560 Master of Renewable and Future Energy
or
BH011 Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) or an associated Combined Degree
and 96 points
and ENSC2003 Engineering Electrical Fundamentals
Advisable prior study
ENSC2003 Engineering Electrical Fundamentals
Contact hours
lectures: 36 hours
practical classes: 12 hours
labs: 9 hours
  • 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.
  • Visit the Essential Textbooks website to see if any textbooks are required for this Unit. The website is updated regularly so content may change. Students are recommended to purchase Essential Textbooks, but a limited number of copies of all Essential Textbooks are held in the Library in print, and as an ebook where possible. Recommended readings for the unit can be accessed in Unit Readings directly through the Learning Management System (LMS).
  • 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.