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MODULE DESCRIPTOR
Module Title
Introduction To Solar Energy Systems
Reference ENM291 Version 2
Created August 2021 SCQF Level SCQF 11
Approved January 2018 SCQF Points 15
Amended August 2021 ECTS Points 7.5

Aims of Module
This module aims to develop a strong ability to describe the design of different technologies used to harvest the solar energy: solar thermal systems and photovoltaic (PV) systems. The module provides a comprehensive understanding of the essential theoretical background needed for the design of system to harvest, convert, store and deliver solar energy.

Learning Outcomes for Module
On completion of this module, students are expected to be able to:
1 Apply critical analysis and discussion on the physical processes that determine the output of different types of solar PV cells
2 Critically review, consolidate and extend knowledge on the operation of the components of PV systems, including solar modules, power control components, and the balance of system components.
3 Demonstrate extensive, detailed and critical knowledge and understanding of physical processes that determine the output of a solar thermal collector.
4 Design a solar thermal system for given boundary conditions and load parameters and relate this to mathematical models that can be used to calculate this output.
5 Undertake critical evaluations and assess the potential energy-cost savings over the lifetime of the solar thermal systems.

Indicative Module Content
Solar photovoltaic (PV) cells, basic operation/the principles of solar cells, various semiconductor materials and their suitability for solar cell manufacturing. Mathematical model, I-V and P-V characteristics. PV system’s components, and how they are assembled in PV modules. Different types of batteries, regulators and inverters. Identification and minimization of losses and degradation issues. Understanding module datasheets as well as manufacturing of photovoltaic modules. Discuss the use of photovoltaic modules in both off-grid and grid- connected systems. Solar thermal systems. Radiation exchange and heat transfer in solar collectors, theoretical performance of the solar collectors, thermal storages linked to solar collectors, solar thermal in buildings and passive solar gain, components of solar thermal systems, solar thermal applications in different climates, and Economic Analysis (PV and thermal).

Module Delivery
This module is delivered by means of lectures, tutorials and student-centred learning activities.

Indicative Student Workload Full Time Part Time
Contact Hours 50 60
Non-Contact Hours 100 90
Placement/Work-Based Learning Experience [Notional] Hours N/A N/A
TOTAL 150 150
Actual Placement hours for professional, statutory or regulatory body    

ASSESSMENT PLAN
If a major/minor model is used and box is ticked, % weightings below are indicative only.
Component 1
Type: Coursework Weighting: 30% Outcomes Assessed: 1, 3
Description: Individual assignment; problem solving (PV and thermal).
Component 2
Type: Examination Weighting: 50% Outcomes Assessed: 2, 4
Description: Final exam.
Component 3
Type: Coursework Weighting: 20% Outcomes Assessed: 5
Description: Group project; a group of students has to search and present about the energy-cost savings of one of the solar energy systems in industrial applications.

MODULE PERFORMANCE DESCRIPTOR
Explanatory Text
To pass the module the student must achieve a minimum of a grade D. Non-submission of any component will result in an NS grade.
Module Grade Minimum Requirements to achieve Module Grade:
A A in Component 2 and at least B in remaining components.
B A in Component 2 and at least D in remaining components OR B in Component 2 and at least C in remaining components.
C C in Component 2 and at least D in remaining components OR D in Component 2 and at least A and D, or B and C in remaining components.
D D in Component 2 and at least D in remaining components.
E E in one or more components.
F F in one or more components.
NS Non-submission of work by published deadline or non-attendance for examination

Module Requirements
Prerequisites for Module Normally a UK honours degree, or equivalent, in Engineering or related discipline at class 2.2 or above and proficiency in English language for academic purposes (IELTS minimum score of 6.5 or equivalent).
Corequisites for module None.
Precluded Modules None.

INDICATIVE BIBLIOGRAPHY
1 LUQUE, A. and HEGEDUS,S., 2010. Handbook of Photovoltaic Science and Engineering, 2nd Edition. Wiley. ISBN: 978-0-470-72169-8.
2 Krauter S.C.W., 2007. Solar Electric Power Generation - Photovoltaic Energy Systems: Modeling of Optical and Thermal Performance, Electrical Yield, Energy Balance, Effect on Reduction of Greenhouse Gas Emissions. Springer Science & Business Media. ISBN 978-3-540-31346-5.
3 DUFFIE, J. A. and BECKMAN, W.A., 2013. Solar Engineering of Thermal Processes. John Wiley & Sons. ISBN: 978-1-118-13924-0.
4 CABEZA, L.F., 2015.Advances in Thermal Energy Storage Systems. Elsevier. ISBN: 978-1-78242-088-0.
5 LUQUE, LOPEZ A. and ANDREEV, V. M., 2007. Concentrator Photovoltaics. Springer Series in Optical Sciences ISBN 978-3-540-68798-6.
6 SERRANO, M.I.R., 2017. Concentrating Solar Thermal Technologies. Springer.
7 ZHENG, H. 2017. Solar Energy Desalination Technology. Elsevier.
8 PRAKASH, O. and KUMAR, A., 2017. Solar Drying Technology. Springer.

Robert Gordon University, Garthdee House, Aberdeen, AB10 7QB, Scotland, UK: a Scottish charity, registration No. SC013781