POWER PLANT TECHNOLOGY

NE 550

Analysis of nuclear systems for the production of useful power. Emphasis: thermodynamic cycles, reactor types, coupling of reactor and power plant, design synthesis, and plant economics.

NE 536

Introduction to the main aspects of fusion power plants and the underlying plasma physics. Key design considerations will be summarized related to fusion fuels, resources, plasma physics, plasma-facing materials, magnets, neutronics, shielding, tritium breeding blankets, structural materials, activation, radiation damage, neutral beams, wave heating current drive, safety, and environmental concerns. Focus on magnetic confinement fusion and its near-term and longer-term prospects.

NE 412

Reactor design projects, reactor hazards, economics.

ME 472

Thermodynamic analysis of energy conversion systems with emphasis on efficiency and greenhouse gas emissions; basic economic analysis of energy systems; radiative energy exchange with participating atmosphere; global energy balance; electricity production and transportation sustainability.

CIVENGR/GLE 535

Wind Energy Development and Balance-of-Plant Design. Up-front coverage includes the science and mechanics of wind energy including turbine basics, wind resource assessment, energy production, and economic return. Balance-of-plant design aspects include site layout and micro-siting, foundation systems, collector systems and interconnection, site civil and electrical infrastructure, and structural tower analysis. Development includes environmental due diligence and permitting, stakeholder engagement, energy policy and markets, and levelized cost of energy (LCOE).