ES245 Alternate Energy

This course is an exploration of different methods of generating energy. The course will include calculations on energy use and generation, conservation practices and techniques as well as basic principles of electricity and thermodynamics. We will look at conventional energy, renewable energy forms such as wind, hydro, wood, solar, and geothermal as well as biofuels. No energy discussion is complete without a discussion of the compromises. Almost all energy releases carbon, either directly in its use or indirectly in its production, often both. We will look at the science, the technology, the economics and the environmental issues of each energy type. Prerequisite: ES104 or GL205 or permission of the instructor.