Course

Energy Resources and Technology

Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur

This course delves into the multifaceted realm of energy resources and technology, providing comprehensive insights into various energy forms and their applications.

Course topics include:

  • Thermodynamics: Fundamentals of Energy
  • Quality of Energy
  • Complete Cycle Analysis of Fossil Fuels
  • Energy in Transportation
  • Other Fossil Fuels
  • Energy Economics: Input-Output Analysis
  • Thermal Power Plants
  • Hydroelectric Power
  • Nuclear Power Generation
  • Nuclear Fusion Reactors
  • Environmental Effects of Conventional Power
  • Solar Thermal Energy Conversion
  • Solar Concentrating Collectors
  • Photovoltaic Power Generation
  • Wind Energy
  • Wind Electrical Conversion
  • Tidal Energy
  • Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion
  • Solar Pond and Wave Power
  • Geothermal Energy
  • Solar Distillation and Biomass Energy
  • Energy Storage
  • Magnetohydrodynamic Power Generation
  • Hydrogen Economy

Engage with each module to understand the intricacies of energy systems and their implications for the future.

Course Lectures
  • This module introduces the fundamental concepts of thermodynamics, focusing on energy as a central theme. Students will explore the laws of thermodynamics and their applications in energy systems.

    Key topics include:

    • The First and Second Laws of Thermodynamics
    • Energy Transfer and Conversion
    • Thermal Efficiency
    • Applications in Energy Resources
  • Lecture - 2 Quality of Energy
    Prof. S. Banerjee

    This module delves into the concept of energy quality, examining how the quality of energy sources affects their usability and efficiency. The discussions will cover:

    • Definition of Energy Quality
    • Factors Affecting Energy Quality
    • Comparison of Different Energy Sources
    • Impacts on Energy Systems
  • This module provides a comprehensive analysis of the complete cycle of fossil fuels, from extraction to consumption. Key aspects include:

    • Extraction and Processing of Fossil Fuels
    • Transportation and Distribution
    • Combustion and Energy Generation
    • Environmental Impact and Sustainability
  • This module explores the role of energy in transportation, highlighting different energy sources and technologies used in the transportation sector. Topics include:

    • Overview of Energy Sources in Transportation
    • Efficiency of Different Transportation Modes
    • Emerging Technologies in Energy Transportation
    • Environmental and Economic Implications
  • Lecture - 5 Other Fossil Fuels
    Prof. S. Banerjee

    This module discusses various alternative fossil fuels such as natural gas, coal, and biofuels. Students will learn about their properties, production methods, and applications, including:

    • Introduction to Alternative Fossil Fuels
    • Comparative Analysis of Fossil Fuels
    • Environmental Impacts
    • Future Trends in Fossil Fuel Usage
  • This module examines the principles of energy economics through input-output analysis. It provides insights into how energy consumption impacts the economy, addressing:

    • Basics of Energy Economics
    • Input-Output Analysis Overview
    • Case Studies in Energy Economics
    • Implications for Policy and Planning
  • This module continues the exploration of energy economics, focusing on detailed input-output models and their applications in energy planning and analysis. Key components will include:

    • Building Input-Output Models
    • Applications in Energy Policy
    • Impact Assessment Techniques
    • Real-world Examples and Case Studies
  • This module focuses on thermal power plants, covering their design, operation, and efficiency. Students will learn about:

    • Types of Thermal Power Plants
    • Thermal Cycles and Efficiency
    • Fuel Types and Environmental Considerations
    • Technological Advances in Thermal Power
  • This module continues the examination of thermal power plants, emphasizing operational strategies and performance optimization. Key points include:

    • Operational Challenges in Thermal Plants
    • Performance Metrics and Evaluation
    • Case Studies of Successful Operations
    • Future of Thermal Power Technology
  • This module covers hydroelectric power generation, discussing its mechanisms, benefits, and environmental impacts. Key topics include:

    • Principles of Hydroelectric Power Generation
    • Types of Hydroelectric Power Plants
    • Environmental Considerations
    • Future Trends in Hydropower Development
  • This module provides an in-depth look at advanced hydroelectric power technologies and their applications. Students will explore:

    • Innovative Hydropower Technologies
    • Efficiency Improvements
    • Environmental Impact Mitigation
    • Case Studies of Modern Hydropower Plants
  • This module explores nuclear power generation, focusing on its principles, technologies, and safety measures. Students will learn about:

    • Basics of Nuclear Fission
    • Types of Nuclear Reactors
    • Safety Protocols and Regulations
    • Environmental Impacts of Nuclear Power
  • This module focuses on nuclear fusion reactors, including their design, operation, and potential as a future energy source. Key topics include:

    • Principles of Nuclear Fusion
    • Current Research and Development
    • Challenges in Fusion Technology
    • Potential Benefits and Risks of Fusion Energy
  • This module examines the environmental effects of conventional power generation methods, including fossil fuels and nuclear energy. Topics covered will include:

    • Air and Water Pollution
    • Greenhouse Gas Emissions
    • Impact on Biodiversity
    • Mitigation Strategies
  • This module focuses on solar thermal energy conversion technologies, discussing their principles and applications. Students will explore:

    • Basics of Solar Thermal Energy
    • Types of Solar Thermal Collectors
    • Applications in Heating and Power Generation
    • Efficiency and Economic Considerations
  • This module focuses on Solar Concentrating Collectors, which utilize mirrors or lenses to concentrate sunlight onto a small area, significantly enhancing energy capture efficiency. The key aspects covered include:

    • Principles of solar concentration
    • Types of concentrating collectors, such as parabolic troughs and solar power towers
    • Applications in various solar thermal systems
    • Performance evaluation and efficiency metrics
    • Challenges and advancements in technology

    Students will explore both theoretical and practical dimensions of these systems, setting a foundation for understanding their role in sustainable energy solutions.

  • The Photovoltaic Power Generation module delves into the technology that converts sunlight directly into electricity using solar cells. The course includes:

    • Fundamentals of photovoltaic technology
    • Types of solar cells including monocrystalline and polycrystalline
    • System design and integration into the grid
    • Performance assessment and efficiency optimization
    • Real-world applications and market trends

    Students will engage in practical exercises to evaluate the performance of solar panels in various conditions and understand their impact on the energy landscape.

  • This module continues the exploration of Photovoltaic Power Generation, diving deeper into advanced concepts. Key topics include:

    • Advanced materials for enhancing solar cell efficiency
    • Innovative designs in solar technology
    • Energy storage solutions paired with photovoltaics
    • Grid management and integration challenges
    • Future trends in the photovoltaic sector

    Through detailed case studies and hands-on projects, students will gain insights into optimizing solar power systems and their integration into existing infrastructures.

  • This module continues with the topic of Photovoltaic Power Generation, focusing further on the integration of solar technologies. It covers:

    • Techniques for improving energy output
    • Impact of environmental factors on performance
    • Regulatory frameworks affecting solar installations
    • Economic considerations including cost-benefit analysis
    • Future prospects for photovoltaic technology

    Students will engage in discussions and simulations to understand the complexities of solar energy in real-world applications.

  • This module further extends the discussions on Photovoltaic Power Generation, emphasizing the latest advancements and emerging technologies. Key areas include:

    • Breakthroughs in solar cell technology
    • Integration of photovoltaics with smart grid technology
    • Innovative financing models for solar projects
    • Global trends in solar adoption
    • Impact of policy changes on photovoltaic technology

    Through interactive learning, students will analyze case studies to identify successful implementation strategies and their implications for the energy market.

  • Lecture - 21 Wind Energy I
    Prof. S. Banerjee

    The Wind Energy I module introduces the principles and fundamentals of harnessing wind energy. It covers the following key concepts:

    • Basic physics of wind and its potential for energy generation
    • Types of wind turbines and their operational principles
    • Site assessment and selection for wind farms
    • Wind energy resources and their distribution
    • Environmental considerations and impact assessments

    Students will participate in hands-on projects related to wind turbine design and performance analysis to understand the dynamics of wind energy systems.

  • Lecture - 22 Wind Energy II
    Prof. S. Banerjee

    In Wind Energy II, the focus shifts towards the technological advancements and methodologies in wind energy production. Key topics include:

    • Design considerations for modern wind turbines
    • Efficiency optimization techniques
    • Grid integration and energy management
    • Legal and economic aspects of wind energy projects
    • Global case studies showcasing successful wind farms

    This module encourages students to critically analyze real-world projects and develop solutions for optimizing wind energy utilization.

  • Lecture - 23 Wind Energy - III
    Prof. S. Banerjee

    Wind Energy III continues to build on previous knowledge, emphasizing the innovative approaches to wind energy generation. Topics covered include:

    • Advanced turbine technologies and materials
    • Offshore wind energy systems and their advantages
    • Challenges in wind energy transmission
    • Future trends and forecasts in wind energy
    • Impact of government policies on project development

    Students will engage in simulations and strategic planning exercises to understand the complexities of large-scale wind energy deployment.

  • Lecture - 24 Wind Energy - IV
    Prof. S. Banerjee

    In Wind Energy IV, students will explore detailed aspects of wind energy system management and optimization. Topics include:

    • Operational management of wind farms
    • Maintenance strategies for wind turbines
    • Data analytics for performance monitoring
    • Financial modeling for wind energy projects
    • Community engagement and stakeholder management

    This module incorporates practical case studies, allowing students to develop skills in managing wind energy resources effectively.

  • Lecture - 25 Wind Energy - V
    Prof. S. Banerjee

    Wind Energy V continues to expand on the management of wind energy systems, with an emphasis on future developments and sustainability. The module covers:

    • Integration of renewable energy sources
    • Environmental impact assessments
    • Technological innovations in wind energy
    • Policy implications and government incentives
    • International perspectives on wind energy deployment

    Students will work on projects that analyze the role of wind energy in achieving sustainable development goals.

  • Lecture - 26 Wind Energy - VI
    Prof. S. Banerjee

    Wind Energy VI concludes the series by focusing on the future challenges and opportunities in wind energy generation. This module addresses:

    • Emerging trends in wind energy technology
    • Barriers to widespread adoption
    • Role of public policy in promoting wind energy
    • Global case studies of successful implementation
    • Strategic planning for future projects

    Students will synthesize their learning through comprehensive projects that propose innovative solutions for enhancing wind energy utilization in various contexts.

  • This module on Wind Electrical Conversion - I focuses on the process of converting wind energy into electrical energy. Key topics include:

    • Principles of electromagnetic induction
    • Types of generators used in wind turbines
    • System design for optimal electrical output
    • Performance metrics and efficiency
    • Integration with the electrical grid

    Students will conduct experiments to understand the conversion process and analyze different generator configurations.

  • Wind Electrical Conversion - II continues the exploration of electrical generation systems from wind energy. Key areas covered include:

    • Control systems for maximizing output
    • Advanced inverter technologies
    • Grid connection issues and solutions
    • Economic analysis of wind electrical systems
    • Future prospects for wind electrical conversion technology

    This module combines theoretical knowledge with practical applications, preparing students for real-world challenges in wind energy conversion.

  • In Wind Electrical Conversion - III, students will deepen their understanding of the complexities of converting wind energy to electricity. This module covers:

    • Performance optimization techniques
    • Impact of technological advancements on efficiency
    • Integration with energy storage systems
    • Policy implications for wind energy generation
    • Global trends and market dynamics

    Students will analyze case studies to understand the implications of these factors on the viability of wind energy projects.

  • Lecture - 30 Tidal Energy
    Prof. S. Banerjee

    This module on Tidal Energy introduces students to the principles of harnessing energy from ocean tides. Key topics include:

    • Fundamentals of tidal energy generation
    • Types of tidal power systems including barrages and turbines
    • Environmental impacts and considerations
    • Site selection for tidal energy projects
    • Challenges and future prospects in tidal energy

    Students will engage in discussions about real-world applications and develop strategies for effective tidal energy utilization.

  • Lecture - 31 Tidal Energy
    Prof. S. Banerjee

    This module focuses on Tidal Energy, a renewable energy source generated by the gravitational pull of the moon and sun on Earth's oceans. The module will cover:

    • The principles of tidal energy generation
    • Types of tidal power systems
    • Environmental impacts of tidal energy
    • Technological advancements in tidal energy conversion

    Students will explore case studies of operational tidal energy plants and discuss the future potential of this energy source in global energy strategies.

  • Lecture - 32 Tidal Energy
    Prof. S. Banerjee

    This module delves deeper into Tidal Energy, focusing on its practical applications and the science behind its harnessing. Key topics include:

    • Design and operation of tidal energy systems
    • Assessment of tidal energy potential in various locations
    • Comparison with other forms of renewable energy

    Students will engage in hands-on projects to design a tidal energy system, evaluating its feasibility and sustainability.

  • This module introduces Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC), a process that utilizes the temperature difference between warmer surface water and colder deep seawater to generate energy. Key components covered include:

    • The thermodynamic principles behind OTEC
    • Different OTEC cycle types: closed, open, and hybrid systems
    • Advantages and limitations of OTEC technology
    • Potential applications and sites for OTEC plants

    Students will analyze case studies of existing OTEC projects and explore the future of this innovative energy solution.

  • This module addresses Solar Pond and Wave Power, focusing on harnessing energy from solar ponds and ocean waves. The module covers:

    • Mechanisms of solar pond energy generation
    • Wave energy technology and its applications
    • Environmental and economic assessments of both energy sources
    • Future advancements in solar and wave energy technologies

    Students will engage in projects to design systems that could effectively utilize these energy sources.

  • Lecture - 35 Geothermal Energy
    Prof. S. Banerjee

    This module on Geothermal Energy explores the utilization of heat from the Earth’s interior for power generation and direct applications. Key topics include:

    • Geothermal resources and types
    • Geothermal power plants and their operations
    • Environmental considerations and sustainability
    • Global geothermal energy production trends

    Students will investigate successful geothermal projects around the world and their impact on local economies.

  • This module examines Solar Distillation and Biomass Energy, focusing on sustainable methods for water purification and energy production. Topics include:

    • Principles of solar distillation techniques
    • Types of biomass resources and conversion technologies
    • Environmental benefits of using biomass
    • Case studies highlighting successful applications

    Students will design their solar distillation systems and evaluate biomass energy production efficiency.

  • Lecture - 37 Energy Storage
    Prof. S. Banerjee

    This module on Energy Storage examines various technologies and methods for storing energy. Key areas of focus include:

    • Types of energy storage: mechanical, thermal, chemical, and electrical
    • Importance of energy storage in renewable energy systems
    • Challenges and advancements in storage technology
    • Future trends and innovations in energy storage solutions

    Students will analyze real-world applications of energy storage technologies and their role in enhancing energy efficiency.

  • This module on Magnetohydrodynamic Power Generation discusses the principles of generating electricity from conducting fluids in magnetic fields. Key components include:

    • Basic principles of magnetohydrodynamics (MHD)
    • Applications of MHD in power generation
    • Advantages and challenges of MHD technology
    • Comparative analysis with traditional power generation methods

    Students will conduct experiments to demonstrate MHD principles and evaluate its potential in future energy systems.

  • This module continues the exploration of Magnetohydrodynamic Power Generation, providing more in-depth analysis and experimental opportunities. It includes:

    • Advanced MHD system designs and configurations
    • Performance metrics and optimization techniques
    • Environmental impacts of MHD systems
    • Future directions for research and development in MHD technology

    Students will work on projects to simulate MHD systems, focusing on efficiency improvements and sustainability.

  • Lecture - 40 Hydrogen Economy
    Prof. S. Banerjee

    This module covers the Hydrogen Economy, which emphasizes the role of hydrogen as a clean energy carrier. Key aspects include:

    • Production methods for hydrogen: electrolysis, reforming, and biomass
    • Applications of hydrogen in energy systems and transportation
    • Challenges and benefits of transitioning to a hydrogen economy
    • Future outlook and technological advancements in hydrogen use

    Students will analyze case studies of hydrogen applications and discuss policy implications for energy transition.