Energy Systems and Sustainability

Catalog description

This course introduces the components and operations of both traditional and renewable energy producing systems including geothermal, steam, solar, wind, etc. Economic decisions and societal and environmental consequences of using various energy sources are emphasized. Throughout the course, students consider the wider effects of energy policy and decisions on local, regional, national, and international communities. Students engage in active learning experiences that expose them to fundamental issues of sustainability and resilience. In ethnographic field visits, students are exposed to the inner workings of multiple power plants, energy transmission centers, sustainable manufacturing and recycling depots, and some of Miami's sustainable buildings. Student analysis and reflection on the materials and experiences in the class include significant synthetic thinking and research. EL. PA-2B, SI-01.