Design Project

The Design Project course is a semester long independent study unit intended to combine and expand the students' cumulative studies in the Renewable Energy Program. Students, from plans to a residential home and, in pairs, will conduct related calculations and research to identify the possibility of taking the home ‘off-grid'. Using and examining previous case studies from courses in wind turbines, solar photovoltaic panels, solar thermal, and geothermal heat pump systems, students will design an innovative project that incorporates these systems and relate them to the assigned home. Regulatory requirements, cost analysis, and principles of design for a renewable energy system will be included in their submission. System designs will incorporate all renewable technologies studied in the program including the aforementioned systems, or other pre-approved design/layout as it pertains to Renewable Energy Systems and/or Energy Conservation. Related computer software will be used to enhance and determine the overall effectiveness of the proposed system. Students are also encouraged to reach out to faculty and/or industry for additional support with their project.