This course covers the principles and practice of sustainable energy design. This will prepare you for the in-depth study of sustainable energy technologies covered in subsequent courses in the program as well as the major design project to be undertaken. The principles of sustainable energy design will be presented and discussed, along with the opportunities for innovation these principles create. A review of design processes that integrate the analysis of social, environmental and economic impacts, and communication with affected social groups, into all stages from initial concept, to implementation, operation, recycle and reuse, will be presented (including life cycle assessment). The course will also provide an introduction to the legal implications of sustainable energy.

A central feature of the approach to sustainable energy design presented will be the advantages of integrating evaluative processes covering economic, environmental and social criteria into the heart of the design process, rather than leaving such evaluation until after a technology has been developed and an actual deployment has been planned. A number of case studies of sustainable energy systems will be analysed to see how this integrative approach to design has been or could be implemented. You will be given the opportunity to apply the principles learnt in a simple design task and present the findings to the class for feedback and discussion.