Nature can offer us an abundance of energy produced by the sun, wind, water and biomass. Boardroom discussions about policy makers' agendas seem clear about energy issues and often clash with the near-unanimous global belief that new and renewable energy is the only solution to the hazardous effects of technology. This course introduces you to the analytical tools used to assess the energy requirements and return on investment. Study greenhouse gas and fossil fuel replacement. Gathering information on net energy analysis and how or where you can use it will add to your understanding of renewable resources energy analysis. This course discusses how to calculate recycled energy and explains energy densities and embodied energy. There are different types of energy stored in materials, and it takes a particular kind of reaction to release each energy type. ‘Embodied energy’ is the sum of all the energy required to produce any goods or services as if that energy was incorporated or 'embodied' in the product itself. This concept can help determine the effectiveness of energy-producing or energy-saving devices. The section on thermochemical production and energy policy explains the economics of emissions calculation. You will gain insight into the framework used to analyze energy policies and the classification of policy instruments.

The second module of the course has detailed explanations of concepts regarding energy access, energy efficiency and future energy systems. We will introduce you to some examples of energy policies and explore the issue of providing affordable access to clean energy. The question of electrification and the different policies and schemes are ongoing. Discover how to appraise different kinds of efficiency, health hazards and global warming issues. The section on energy efficiency highlights the obstacles faced by energy-efficient motors. Determine how to analyze energy efficiency with the help of cases and examples. An energy audit has its challenges and this course adds to your awareness of this process and energy consumption in the industrial sector. You will also learn about ‘Renewable Energy Certificates’ (RECs). This market-based instrument certifies that the bearer of the REC owns one megawatt-hour (MWh) of electricity generated from a renewable energy resource. There have been transitions in the energy systems industry and this course teaches you about these transitions and their drivers. The energy requirement and services that we need for development and the current trends in this field are also shared.

In present times, an energy assessment is no longer an option but essential as governments seek ways to mobilize the masses and direct them towards future resources, including biomass, wind, solar, water and geothermal. Industrial processes are changing or getting modified to be labelled ‘green’ or ‘zero-carbon’. The renewable energy sector is projected to expand and a possible trend is energy-saving becoming a service. Modern living relies heavily on clean and cost-effective access to energy so the energy sector is growing. We expect the number of jobs in this sector to continue to rise. This course offers valuable insight and research for those interested in pursuing a career in the energy domain or who simply want to expand their knowledge base. So be smart and start this course right away!