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Syllabus

Textbook

Peters, et al. Sustainable Energy. - beta-test draft.

Other Readings

Hinrichs, R. A. Energy. Philadelphia: Saunders College Publ, PA 1992.

Kraushaar, and Ristinen. Energy and Problems of a Technical Society. 1993.

Bisio and Boots. Encyclopedia of Energy Technology and the Environment. 1995.

Glasstone. Energy Deskbook. 1980.

Hottel and Howard. New Energy Technology. 1971.

Homework

One problem set per week on average - early problem sets focus on analytical skills;
later problems are more comprehensive and integrating.

Papers and Recitations

Participation in one student-led recitation and in one case study session.
One written term paper, with interim progress report and final oral presentation.

Grading

Homework      30%
Recitation       15%
Case Study     15%

[Note: case study will integrate "real-time" use of the material prepared for the
recitation]

Term Paper    40%

[Note: term paper grade is 25% for written paper; 15% for oral presentation and exam]

Course Organizational Structure

Toolbox Lectures:

1. Energy Resource Assessment.
2. Energy Supply, Demand, and Storage Planning Methods.
3. Economic Feasibility and Assessment Methods.
4. Energy Transfer and Conversion Methods.
5. Thermodynamics and Efficiency Analysis Methods.
6. Systems Analysis Methodologies.

Recitations:
 
Student led recitations will involve three member teams (approx.). Each team should collaborate in all phases of preparation, including presentation graphics and briefing notes. The team should select one member to be the presenter, one to lead discussion, and one to be rapporteur (give wrap-up comments). Paper copies of visual presentation materials should be distributed before the recitation.

Recitation 1. Class discussion about "sustainability" and scoping techniques.
Recitations 2-7. Problem sessions focused on "Toolbox" topics and linked homework assignments.
Recitations 8-17. Student-led recitations on energy supply options that will lead to two integrated case studies.

Case Studies

We have selected ten recitation team case studies on important energy policy
questions based on the following outline:

How to Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions

  • Technically (what are attractive technological options?)
  • Policy Recommendations and Rationale for Achieving Global Warming Gas
    Reductions
    - US
    - World
              o Industrialized countries
              o Developing countries

How/Whether to Obtain Large Market Share Renewable Energy Technologies

  • What Mix to Favor, Technically
  • Policies to Facilitate Use of Renewable Energy Technologies
    - Developed countries
    - Developing counties

How to Reduce Residential Energy Consumption

  • Technically
  • Policy

Using Renewable Energy Technologies to Meet MIT's Energy Needs

Homework

10 total (intro, 6 toolbox, and renewable, fossil, nuclear)

Term Paper

  • Suggested topics distributed during Lecture 4
  • Topic selection forms are due the day of Lecture 7
  • Topic selection forms will be returned to students with comments the day of Lecture 10
  • Submit outline of term paper and schedule advisor meeting by Lecture 17
  • Written paper due the day of Lecture 24
  • Final oral presentation (20-minute presentation and 10-minute exam [questions]) to be given during lectures