The proposed course Energy Conversion Systems treats the subject areas of applied thermodynamics, energy technology and electrical power engineering, in particular the theoretical principles and the practical design aspects of various technologies for heat and power generation. A wide focus of both conventional and renewable energy systems is provided, including electrical engineering aspects and monitoring or control processes, primarily in view of possibilities for system integration together with the enormous potential for synergies and innovations. Technical solutions are discussed in a systems’ perspective with a closer view on vital application areas.
The specific technological overview is focused primarily on the following fields:
- Thermal power cycles and power plants (steam cycles, gas cycles, combined cycles);
- Direct energy conversion methods, niche technologies, fuel cells and their integration with conventional power plants;
- Mainstream renewable energy sources and their integration in the power system;
- Energy storage technologies and the solutions they offer for integration with contemporary and future power systems;
- Electrical generators and power electronics, and their role in both large-scale and small-scale solutions as well as the potential for improvements and innovations that they offer;
- Systems monitoring, control strategies and regulation techniques.