ENEE 4161U – Solar Energy

Solar radiation measurements and predictions. Radiative heat transfer aspects. Classification of solar energy options. Solar thermal applications, including heating, cooling, air conditioning, electricity and fresh water production. Solar collectors and absorbing materials and their spectral characteristics. Concentrated solar panels. Solar electrical applications. Basics, materials and operational details on photovoltaics/solar cells. Solar energy conversion systems for various applications. Energy storage systems, including latent (phase change materials, molten salts) and sensible (hot water, compressed air, rock bed, etc.) options. Integrated solar energy systems for more useful outputs. Solar fuels. Thermodynamic analysis and performance assessments through energy and exergy approaches.
Credit hours: 3.0
Lecture hours: 3.0
Laboratory hours: 2 (biweekly)
Prerequisite(s): MECE 3260U and (MECE 3930U or NUCL 3930U )
Cross-listed: MECE 4151U