The introductory phase of the course is dedicated to the global aspects of energy production and demand in the world, with particular attention to the environmental and social aspects of energy usage, including climate change. Australia’s energy resources and consumption patterns are specifically addressed. The bulk o the course is dedicated to studying the main renewable energy technologies: biomass, geothermal, hydroelectric, solar thermal, photovoltaic, and wind, including technical and economical issues. Experts in different aspects of energy production and use give invited lectures on selected topics. A deeper study of the present world scenario and a critical discussion of energy trends predicted by organisations such as the International Energy Agency, the World Energy Council and the United Nations. The hot issue of climate change is studied through the latest assessment reports issued by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). In depth personalised study of at least two of the main sustainable energy technologies will be based on reading up-to-date bibliographic sources, including specialised journals, books and internet resources, such as the World Energy Assessment, published by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). Additional topics may be available (tidal, wave and ocean thermal energy technologies, fuel cells, hydrogen economy, fusion power, nuclear power, etc) for study. Course work includes writing papers on specific energy technologies and subsequent oral presentation.

This course can be studied for credit in the following programs:
Master of Engineering
Graduate Studies
and as an elective in other programs.