Sustainable Energy Systems

• analyse energy systems from a holistic perspective by identifying and analysing the functions of major components and the way they are connected to a functioning system
• use methods to calculate resource use from a life cycle perspective and critically evaluate the used methods
• choose a model energy systems analysis and evaluate the results on the basis of reliability in the used computational models
• explain the role of an energy system and its development from a socio-technical and techno-economic perspective
• identify, formulate and handle questions relating to energy systems and sustainable development
• work in groups and interact with companies or other external parties when executing a project
• present and discuss, both orally and in writing, project results in a scientific manner

This course deals with complex energy systems, meaning systems which include both the supply and use of energy. This can, for example, be municipal energy systems which include district heating and its use in the built environment, industrial energy systems which include primary resources for electricity and heat in processes and support systems and an overview of regional energy systems from primary energy resources for use in various sectors of society.

Energy technology and systems are put into context regarding resource use and how this affects the environment both locally and globally. The course will here centre on sustainable development with a focus on the handling of resource and environmental impact.

The concept of energy systems will also be widened to include a socio technical system approach, which means that social components are included in order to explain how systems are designed and how they change over time depending on the actions of professionals and the way in which business investments, institutional regulations and policy instruments affect their decisions.

A number of lectures are given initially on the concept of sustainable development, efficient use of Earth’s resources for different purposes, energy and environmental evaluation methods, as well as some current regulations and policy instruments. Some lectures are also given to provide examples of various types of provincial, municipal and industrial energy systems. The course includes exercises and home assignments in modeling an energy system, resource handling and LCA.

Throughout the course, students will work on a project in the form of a case study. The formulation of the problem can either originate in a real project in a company or alternatively in a more research-oriented project at the university.

Project (including seminars, written report and oral presentation) (6.5 credits)

Individual assignments with seminars (2 credits)

Laboratory work (1.5 credits)

The Swedish grades U, 3, 4, 5.

Individual assignments 2 credits (U-G)

Laboratory work 1.5 credits (U-G)

Project 6.5 credits (U, 3, 4, 5)

A final course grade requires individual assignments with a passing grade and laboratory work and at least grade 3 on the project. The final grade is determined by the project grade.