Wind and Marine Energy module (RE42004)

Wind and marine energy harness the natural power of the atmosphere and oceans to generate electricity at large scale. In this module, you will explore the physics and engineering behind wind turbines, hydroelectric systems, and emerging wave and tidal technologies, and how they contribute to a sustainable energy future. 

You will study how energy is extracted from moving air and water, and the physical limits that govern how much power can be captured. You will learn about wind turbine design and operation, including blade aerodynamics, rotor dynamics, and power control, as well as how these systems are integrated into the electrical grid.  

You will also explore hydroelectric and marine energy technologies, including run-of-river and pumped storage hydro schemes, and wave and tidal systems. You will investigate how these technologies are designed, where they can be deployed, and the challenges involved in operating in complex environmental conditions. 

Through practical work, you will test wind turbine performance and analyse real data, developing skills in modelling, resource assessment, and energy yield calculations. You will also consider wider factors such as environmental impact, cost, and the role of renewable energy in meeting global demand. 

This module prepares you for careers in renewable energy and sustainable engineering, where understanding large-scale energy systems is essential. 

What you will learn 

In this module, you will: 

• explore how wind and marine energy systems generate electricity 
• study the physics of energy extraction from air and water 
• analyse wind turbine performance, including aerodynamics and power output 
• investigate hydroelectric, wave, and tidal energy technologies 
• assess energy resources, site suitability, and system performance 
• evaluate environmental, economic, and societal factors 
• analyse data and model renewable energy systems. 

By the end of this module, you will be able to: 

• explain how wind and marine energy systems operate 
• analyse and evaluate renewable energy technologies 
• estimate energy yield, efficiency, and system performance 
• assess site suitability and environmental impact 
• apply physics and engineering principles to real energy systems

Assignments / assessments

• coursework (20%) 
  • Laboratory assignment 
  • Renewables case study 
• final, written exam (80%)

Teaching methods / timetable

• Lectures 
• Tutorials 
• Workshops 
• Practical laboratory sessions