Discover innovative sustainable energy systems solutions and explore an integrated perspective on the energy market.
- Duration4 weeks
- Weekly study2 hours
Energy Systems Integration: An Introduction
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Learn how sustainable energy systems interact and solve big energy challenges
With the rising cost of energy and the threat of climate change on energy security, the world is facing critical energy challenges. On this course, you will explore sustainable energy solutions, and build skills to develop, plan and operate an integrated sustainable energy system.
You will learn how energy systems interact and how to relate your energy expertise to the wider framework of energy transition. You’ll look at the integration and regulation of energy systems as well as the impact of electromobility, the future of electric power systems, and the psychology of consumer behaviour.
Syllabus
Week 1
Energy systems integration and main characteristics - Part 1
Welcome to the course!
“If a problem can’t be solved, enlarge it.” - Dwight Eisenhower.
Activity 1. What is energy systems integration?
The process of coordinating the coupling within the energy system.
Activity 2. Coupling across energy vectors
By transforming energy from one vector to another - electricity, heat, fuels - one can maximise the functional value of primary energy resources.
What did you learn?
Test your knowledge and share your thoughts!
Week 2
Energy systems integration and main characteristics - Part 2
Welcome to week 2
Let's kick-off this week's learning journey by reading the objectives and sharing opinions in the poll
Activity 3. Coupling across geographical scales
Electricity, heat, and various types of fuels operate at different geographical scales, depending on their ability to travel long distances, and their ability to be stored in large amounts.
Activity 4. Coupling of regulation and control mechanisms
Uncoordinated regulatory frameworks may lead to public opposition, a less reliable system, or interfering sustainability targets.
What did you learn?
Test your knowledge and share your thoughts!
Week 3
Energy systems integration and main characteristics - Part 3
Welcome to week 3
Let's go through this week's learning objectives and connect through a poll.
Activity 5. Coupling of other infrastructures
Energy vectors - electricity, heat, fuels - interact bidirectionally with water systems, transportation, and data and communication networks.
Activity 6. The integrated energy system: bringing it all together
Energy systems integration is about finding the right compromise between all competing aspects of different stakeholders within the energy system, including ourselves as consumers
What did you learn?
Test your knowledge and share your thoughts!
Week 4
Energy systems integration and main characteristics - Case studies
Welcome to week 4
Let's go through this final week's learning objectives.
Case study 1. GE and energy systems integration
The coordination between gas networks and the electricity grid is key to integrate renewables
Case study 2. Renewables integration and support services
Learn about the enablers and challenges of integrating renewable energy resources into the electric grid.
What did you learn?
The final test! One last time, you can test your knowledge and share your thoughts. We will share our suggestions to continue your learning journey!
When would you like to start?
Date to be announced
What will you achieve?
By the end of the course, you‘ll be able to...
- Explain the added value of energy systems integration
- Identify where ESI is most valuable within the energy system
- Describe energy systems integration with an example that includes more than one type of coupling
- Evaluate the importance of a cost-benefit analysis for a given energy systems integration problem
- Explore long-term benefits/drawbacks and short-term benefits/drawbacks of energy systems integration
Who is the course for?
This course is for anyone with an interest in sustainable development and a basic understanding of how energy markets work. This course will also benefit professionals working in the energy sector.
Who will you learn with?
Communication Officer @ InnoEnergy/EnergyVille/KU Leuven - strong interest in energy technologies & digital learning
Hello! Engineer with a vision to succeed the transition to a decarbonised, affordable, and reliable energy system, I embrace digital learning as a tool to break silos between all disciplines involved!
Who developed the course?
EIT InnoEnergy
EIT InnoEnergy is the European company promoting innovation, entrepreneurship and education in sustainable energy.