Unit 1: Why do we need Renewable Energy?
Why do we need renewable energy? This unit (4 lessons) challenges students to think about why we would want to develop renewable energy resources. Is it because we are running out of fossil fuels? Are they more economical? Are renewables better for human health or the environment? Lectures and readings provide a background on the issues of carbon in the environment and the role it plays in global climate change. This unit lays the groundwork for learning about our energy system and the role of both fossil fuels and renewable energy options with lessons on carbon cycle, climate and weather, and life cycle assessment.
Unit 2: Fossil Fuels
In order to understand the role of renewable energy we have to know something about our current energy system built on fossil fuels. How much fossil fuel do we use? Where do fossil fuels come from? This unit (7 lessons) describes the sources, uses, distribution, economics and efficiency of fossil fuel based energy. This includes transportation (petroleum), heating (natural gas), and electricity (coal and other fuels). We talk about residential, industrial, agricultural, transportation and other big users of fossil fuels, and where this fuel comes from. Topics include current topics like natural gas “fracking. We also learn about the undeniable benefits of energy conservation and energy efficiency.
Unit 3: Biomass
Biomass energy is a diverse and fascinating array of fuels. There are many types of biomass and many ways to convert this biomass into useful fuels. This unit (11 lessons) focuses on the science of conversion processes and non-fossil fuel based fuel sources. These sources include corn ethanol, biodiesel, algae for energy, waste and garbage, wood, pyrolysis, anaerobic digestion, and biogas. We also describe the economics and political implications of these fuel sources, and their environmental impact.
Unit 4: Typical Renewables
Solar power, wind power, hydoelectricity, and geothermal energy and nuclear energy sources are all be critical components of our nation’s energy portfolio. This unit focuses on these complex and powerful energy sources, including the technology, environmental impacts, economic and policy drivers, and cultural implications of their use and expansion.
Unit 5: Policy, Regulation, and Community
The final unit focuses on understanding the policy implications and political climate that impacts the development of renewable energy sources. In the first lesson we discuss policy options, market forces, and economic drivers that effect energy in the US. In the final lesson we focus on the importance of citizen engagement and a lifelong commitment to this topic.
For more information see the Syllabus (.pdf)