Solar Energy: Technologies and Trends
- Course Number: E1022
- Credits: 5 hours
- Instructor: Ellen Huang, PE
- Price: $50
Course Outline
Solar energy represents the largest energy input into the terrestrial system. Despite its relatively low power density, this resource could potentially satisfy the global energy demand on its own. This course provides an overview of solar power, solar heating, solar biomass, and solar thermal power. It describes various types of solar cells, how solar cells work, and the latest development of solar cell technologies. In addition, the course material contains industry data and trends in cost, installation, technology, and performance.
At the end of this course, there will be a multiple-choice, open-book quiz designed to enhance your understanding of the course material.
Learning Objectives
At the conclusion of this course, the student will:
- Know a variety of solar technologies and systems, from solar heating to solar photovoltaic;
- Understand the two types of solar thermal collectors;
- Know the efficiency of different solar cells;
- Understand how solar thermal power works; and
- Appreciate the benefits of solar power.