Course syllabus - Solar Energy

Objectives

The aim of the course is to provide knowledge about how the solar energy system works with a focus on solar cell systems, including its various components and including energy storage, how energy yield can be calculated and how the systems should be dimensioned. This means that theoretical models and simulation programs are used to calculate solar radiation and energy yield for different locations and system designs.

Learning outcomes

After completing the course, the student should be able to:
1. Explain the importance of solar energy in the current situation and in the future
2. Calculate solar radiation in different geometries and latitudes
3. Describe the function and state of development of solar cells
4. Describe the function of the system components in a solar energy system
5. Dimension a functioning solar energy system
6. Use simulation software to calculate the performance of solar energy systems
7. Understand what affects the economy of a solar energy system

Course content

Radiation conditions and conditions for using solar energy in Sweden. The state of development of solar energy. Calculation of radiation to different surfaces. Basic solar cell physics. Solar cell function and construction. Function of other system components such as inverters and energy storage. Analysis of system design of grid-connected systems, such as building applied (BAPV), building integrated (BIPV), solar parks and agrivoltaics (APV). Use of simulation programs for dimensioning and optimization of solar energy systems. Economy for solar energy systems. The course includes laboratory work, study visits and assignments.

Tuition

Lectures, tutorials, group discussions, assignments, mandatory study visit and mandatory laboratory sessions.

Specific requirements

7.5 credits within an engineering programme

Examination

Assignments and study visit (INL1), 2.5 credits, grade Passed (G) or Fail (U) (refers to learning objectives 1-7)
Exam (TEN1), 5 credits, grade 3, 4 or 5 (refers to learning objectives 1-7)

A student who has a certificate from MDU regarding a disability has the opportunity to submit a request for supportive measures during written examinations or other forms of examination, in accordance with the Rules and Regulations for Examinations at First-cycle and Second-cycle Level at Mälardalen University (2020/1655). It is the examiner who takes decisions on any supportive measures, based on what kind of certificate is issued, and in that case which measures are to be applied.

Suspicions of attempting to deceive in examinations (cheating) are reported to the Vice-Chancellor, in accordance with the Higher Education Ordinance, and are examined by the University’s Disciplinary Board. If the Disciplinary Board considers the student to be guilty of a disciplinary offence, the Board will take a decision on disciplinary action, which will be a warning or suspension.

Grade

Pass with distinction, Pass with credit, Pass, Fail

Interim Regulations and Other Regulations

Overlaps by 7,5 hp with ERA115 Solceller och solfångare.