Unit Code: PHY925

Unit Name: Physics of Solar Thermal Process and Devices and Application in Pacific Region

Description: This course emphasizes solar thermal systems for either generating electricity from sunlight or for water heating, cooling, drying and cooking. The availability of sunlight is the crucial component for conversion technologies which will be estimated using well-known advanced mathematical models and the instruments for measuring it also be introduced. The students will be learning about the different solar thermal devices, their operational process and the efficiency of the system. The student will also model solar thermal systems using RETScreen, SAM or any other appropriate tool to study the solar thermal systems\' impact on the environment, and determine the system\'s technical output and financial gains. The current use of solar thermal systems in Fiji and the Pacific region will be taught and what the future prospects are for such technologies.

Learning Target Outcomes: The course will involve theoretical and practical aspects. As a result of successfully completing this course, the students will be able to: 1. Design and fabricate solar thermal devices 2. Provide the explanation for the operation of Renewable Energy systems in terms of electrical and physical principles 3. Analyse the physical laws and resources that constrain our energy systems 4. Perform analysis on estimating the amount of energy available from the renewable energy resource, the efficiency and power output of renewable energy systems, and their benefits 5. Design a model of an energy system using solar thermal technology and carry out a techno-economic-environmental impact 6. Carry out research work that is applicable to Fiji, Pacific and the Global South

Prerequisite: PGD/M.Sc Year 1 Pass or equivalent

Prerequisite Sentence: N/A

Credit Point: 30

Offered In: Semester 1,2