In a world with ever increasing energy demands and the limitations now being felt through society due to our dependence on a limited range of energy sources, the necessity for a greater diversity of energy sources is mounting. The aim of this course is to provide the students with a strong understanding of the underlying science behind the generation, transformation and utilisation of energy resources. It will start with topics at a very basic, yet fundamental, level and build upon this knowledge base in an attempt to reinforce basic concepts that are often misunderstood within the wider community. Topics to be covered include: elementary scientific mathematics, the concept of energy, conservation rules, basic thermodynamics and the various forms of energy (Chemical, Heat etc) and their transformation into more usable forms such as electricity.

Experts from within the CPMS/CECS/CMBE will teach the course. After completion of this course students will have sufficient fundamental knowledge of the basic underlying science behind energy systems to make assessments of differing energy options and therefore have an intuitive feel for the accuracy of the scientific details.

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion, students will have the knowledge and skills to:

1. Understand and be able to apply the basic concepts of: large numbers, logarithms and exponents, scientific graphs and energy units and their conversion in calculations and estimations.
2. Explain and undertake simple calculations of the basic concepts behind energy, work, power, force, conservation of energy and heat transfer (conduction, convection and radiation) and storage.
3. Understand the concept of the Carnot cycle and efficiency and be able to use this concept in calculations and apply it to a given energy system.
4. Describe and explain the differences between the various types of energy (i.e. Chemical, Heat, Gravitational, Electrical, Electromagnetism, Nuclear etc) and through the use of simple calculations understand the uses of these types of energy, their generation and transformation.
5. Critically analyse a description of an energy related system or proposal, a particular example being the energy usage and loss mechanisms of residential housing.

Research-Led Teaching

Specific topics of the course will be delivered by ANU academic and external experts with specific research expertise in the field.

Recommended Resources

1. Sustainable Energy - without the hot air, David JC Mackay, UIT Cambridge Ltd. (PO Box 145 Cambridge CB4 1GQ England), Web: www.uit.co.uk, 2009, ISBN 978-0-9544529-3-3 (paperback). Free HTML and PDF version: http://www.withouthotair.com/  

2. Energy: Its Use and the Environment, 4th Edition, Roger A. Hinrichs and Merlin Kleinbach, Brooks Cole, September 30 2005, ISBN 978-0495010852

3. Energy Systems and Sustainability: power for a sustainable future, Godfrey Boyle, Bob Everett and Janet Ramage, Oxford Uni Press, 2003, ISBN 0-19-926179-2

4. Sustainable Energy: Choosing Among Options, Jefferson W. Tester, Elisabeth M Drake, Michael J. Driscoll, Michael W. Golay and William A. Peters, The MIT press, 2005, ISBN 0-262-20153-4

Recommended student system requirements 

ANU courses commonly use a number of online resources and activities including:

• video material, similar to YouTube, for lectures and other instruction
• two-way video conferencing for interactive learning
• email and other messaging tools for communication
• interactive web apps for formative and collaborative activities
• print and photo/scan for handwritten work
• home-based assessment.

To fully participate in ANU learning, students need:

• A computer or laptop. Mobile devices may work well but in some situations a computer/laptop may be more appropriate.
• Webcam
• Speakers and a microphone (e.g. headset)
• Reliable, stable internet connection. Broadband recommended. If using a mobile network or wi-fi then check performance is adequate.
• Suitable location with minimal interruptions and adequate privacy for classes and assessments.
• Printing, and photo/scanning equipment

For more information please see https://www.anu.edu.au/students/systems/recommended-student-system-requirements

Staff Feedback

Individual feedback provided by lecturer in person or via wattle

General feedback will be discussed in the following class after submission

Student Feedback

ANU is committed to the demonstration of educational excellence and regularly seeks feedback from students. Students are encouraged to offer feedback directly to their Course Convener or through their College and Course representatives (if applicable). Feedback can also be provided to Course Conveners and teachers via the Student Experience of Learning & Teaching (SELT) feedback program. SELT surveys are confidential and also provide the Colleges and ANU Executive with opportunities to recognise excellent teaching, and opportunities for improvement.

Other Information

Please note: The dates in the assessment summary reflect the start and end dates of Semester 1. Assessment tasks will be given specific issue and return dates and will be advised to students at the commencement of the course or via Wattle.

Class Schedule

Week/Session	Summary of Activities	Assessment
1	Weeks 1-6Underlying principles of energyPart1 of the course will review the basic concepts of energy science and the relevant terminology necessary to understand the technologies used for energy generation and transformation comprising: Mechanical energy with pumped hydro storage as an example Energy of fluids, wind energy (invited lecture from Windlab) Thermal energy, including thermal engine efficiency limits, heat exchange mechanisms, with a particular focus on buildings and their elements (invited lecture from Laros Australia) Electromagnetic energy to understand the transformation of mechanical work to electricity and back, Energy of light: solar radiation and its conversion to heat and electricity. Concentrated solar technologies. A particular will be given to the fundamental limits of energy conversion efficiencies, possible confusion in energy units usage, and major concepts underlying energy technologies.	•Participation in a discussion board – 10%–At least 2 questions and 3 answers.•Tutorials: 10% •Assignment: Energy Generation/Transformation Example, 1 page + 10 mins presentation: 10%•Assignment: a briefing paper 40% –(7-10 pages essay, technical proposal, presentation)•Exam :30%Ethical arguments will not be assessed
2	weeks 7-12Specific energy technologies:Electrochemical energy storage (batteries)Hydrogen as an energy vector, generation, storage and use of hydrogenElectricity gridsNuclear energy

Tutorial Registration

N/A

Assessment Summary

Assessment task	Value	Due Date	Return of assessment	Learning Outcomes
Examination	20 %	29/05/2025	26/06/2025	1,2,3,4,5
Problems - Home Work	20 %	*	*	1,2,3,4,5
Participation in course's discussion board	15 %	29/05/2025	*	1,2,3,4
Minor assignment-An analysis of energy generation/transformation or of a form of energy	15 %	*	*	4
Major assignment	30 %	*	*	1,2,3,4,5

* If the Due Date and Return of Assessment date are blank, see the Assessment Tab for specific Assessment Task details

Policies

ANU has educational policies, procedures and guidelines , which are designed to ensure that staff and students are aware of the University’s academic standards, and implement them. Students are expected to have read the Academic Integrity Rule before the commencement of their course. Other key policies and guidelines include:

• Academic Integrity Policy and Procedure
• Student Assessment (Coursework) Policy and Procedure
• Extenuating Circumstances Application
• Student Surveys and Evaluations
• Deferred Examinations
• Student Complaint Resolution Policy and Procedure
• Code of practice for teaching and learning

Assessment Requirements

The ANU is using Turnitin to enhance student citation and referencing techniques, and to assess assignment submissions as a component of the University's approach to managing Academic Integrity. For additional information regarding Turnitin please visit the Academic Skills website. In rare cases where online submission using Turnitin software is not technically possible; or where not using Turnitin software has been justified by the Course Convener and approved by the Associate Dean (Education) on the basis of the teaching model being employed; students shall submit assessment online via ‘Wattle’ outside of Turnitin, or failing that in hard copy, or through a combination of submission methods as approved by the Associate Dean (Education). The submission method is detailed below.

Moderation of Assessment

Marks that are allocated during Semester are to be considered provisional until formalised by the College examiners meeting at the end of each Semester. If appropriate, some moderation of marks might be applied prior to final results being released.

Participation

3 hours of lectures and tutorials per week

Examination(s)

Please refer to the ANU examinations timetable for exam scheduling.

Assessment Task 1

Examination

An examination of 2 hours duration with a weighting of 30% will be held at the end of the semester. The examination will cover all topics covered in the lectures and test the students' fundamental understanding of the lecture material. It will consist of a mixture of quantitative and qualitative questions. The quantitative questions will only require simple calculations from formulae that the students would have encountered in lectures and used in tutorials. In contrast, the qualitative questions will require a descriptive answer on how energy is generated, transformed and utilised within a given system.

Assessment Task 2

Problems - Home Work

Homework will comprise 12-15 tasks, providing a total course weight of 20%. The rationale behind grading homework problems is to (a): provide an incentive for students to attend all sessions and (b): encourage interaction between the students and the convenor. Grading will also provide a better determination of the student's understanding of the subject matter throughout the semester and, therefore, allow for modification to the lecture material to assist in overcoming weaknesses in the class’s understanding.

Students are expected to contribute on an ongoing basis throughout the semester.

Assessment Task 3

Participation in course's discussion board

Students will discuss concepts and practical examples relating to the course.

Students are expected to contribute on an ongoing basis throughout the semester. The date range for this task comprises the start of the semester and the last day of the teaching period. Each student is expected to make at least four contributions relating to the course's syllabus.

Assessment Task 4

Minor assignment-An analysis of energy generation/transformation or of a form of energy

The assignment will comprise an up to two pages summary presented to and discussed with the lecturer, followed by an up to 15 min class presentation.

Schedule:

A. Provide a concise two-page summary of a topic approved by your lecturer.

B. Prepare an up to 10 min class presentation. . 

C. Deliver presentations. General feedback - after the presentations.

Assessment Task 5

Major assignment

One assessment item (30%) to be written in the style of an official briefing paper, to either government and/or business, with a total length of more than 8 pages. It will assess the student’s total course knowledge through the use of a specific example that uses energy in some form. The student will have to describe the energy source and how this energy source is utilised and is transformed into a more usable form through to the inefficiencies and limitations within the given system. Such an example would be the generation of electricity to heat and cool residential housing.

Academic Integrity

Academic integrity is a core part of the ANU culture as a community of scholars. The University’s students are an integral part of that community. The academic integrity principle commits all students to engage in academic work in ways that are consistent with, and actively support, academic integrity, and to uphold this commitment by behaving honestly, responsibly and ethically, and with respect and fairness, in scholarly practice.

The University expects all staff and students to be familiar with the academic integrity principle, the Academic Integrity Rule 2021, the Policy: Student Academic Integrity and Procedure: Student Academic Integrity, and to uphold high standards of academic integrity to ensure the quality and value of our qualifications.

The Academic Integrity Rule 2021 is a legal document that the University uses to promote academic integrity, and manage breaches of the academic integrity principle. The Policy and Procedure support the Rule by outlining overarching principles, responsibilities and processes. The Academic Integrity Rule 2021 commences on 1 December 2021 and applies to courses commencing on or after that date, as well as to research conduct occurring on or after that date. Prior to this, the Academic Misconduct Rule 2015 applies.

 

The University commits to assisting all students to understand how to engage in academic work in ways that are consistent with, and actively support academic integrity. All coursework students must complete the online Academic Integrity Module (Epigeum), and Higher Degree Research (HDR) students are required to complete research integrity training. The Academic Integrity website provides information about services available to assist students with their assignments, examinations and other learning activities, as well as understanding and upholding academic integrity.

Online Submission

You will be required to electronically sign a declaration as part of the submission of your assignment. Please keep a copy of the assignment for your records. Unless an exemption has been approved by the Associate Dean (Education) submission must be through Turnitin.

Hardcopy Submission

For some forms of assessment (hand written assignments, art works, laboratory notes, etc.) hard copy submission is appropriate when approved by the Associate Dean (Education). Hard copy submissions must utilise the Assignment Cover Sheet. Please keep a copy of tasks completed for your records.

Late Submission

Late submissions of assessment tasks without an extension are penalised at the rate of 5% of the possible marks available per working day or part thereof. Late submission of assessment tasks is not accepted after 10 working days after the due date, or on or after the date specified in the course outline for the return of the assessment item. Late submission is not accepted for take-home examinations.

Referencing Requirements

The Academic Skills website has information to assist you with your writing and assessments. The website includes information about Academic Integrity including referencing requirements for different disciplines. There is also information on Plagiarism and different ways to use source material. Any use of artificial intelligence must be properly referenced. Failure to properly cite use of Generative AI will be considered a breach of academic integrity.

Returning Assignments

Assignments will be returned by Wattle or email.

Extensions and Penalties

Extensions and late submission of assessment pieces are covered by the Student Assessment (Coursework) Policy and Procedure. Extensions may be granted for assessment pieces that are not examinations or take-home examinations. If you need an extension, you must request an extension in writing on or before the due date. If you have documented and appropriate medical evidence that demonstrates you were not able to request an extension on or before the due date, you may be able to request it after the due date.

Resubmission of Assignments

Assignments will be submitted by Wattle. In some cases, email submissions will be alllowed

Privacy Notice

The ANU has made a number of third party, online, databases available for students to use. Use of each online database is conditional on student end users first agreeing to the database licensor’s terms of service and/or privacy policy. Students should read these carefully. In some cases student end users will be required to register an account with the database licensor and submit personal information, including their: first name; last name; ANU email address; and other information.
In cases where student end users are asked to submit ‘content’ to a database, such as an assignment or short answers, the database licensor may only use the student’s ‘content’ in accordance with the terms of service – including any (copyright) licence the student grants to the database licensor. Any personal information or content a student submits may be stored by the licensor, potentially offshore, and will be used to process the database service in accordance with the licensors terms of service and/or privacy policy.
If any student chooses not to agree to the database licensor’s terms of service or privacy policy, the student will not be able to access and use the database. In these circumstances students should contact their lecturer to enquire about alternative arrangements that are available.

Distribution of grades policy

Academic Quality Assurance Committee monitors the performance of students, including attrition, further study and employment rates and grade distribution, and College reports on quality assurance processes for assessment activities, including alignment with national and international disciplinary and interdisciplinary standards, as well as qualification type learning outcomes.

Since first semester 1994, ANU uses a grading scale for all courses. This grading scale is used by all academic areas of the University.

Support for students

The University offers students support through several different services. You may contact the services listed below directly or seek advice from your Course Convener, Student Administrators, or your College and Course representatives (if applicable).

• ANU Health, safety & wellbeing for medical services, counselling, mental health and spiritual support
• ANU Access and inclusion for students with a disability or ongoing or chronic illness
• ANU Dean of Students for confidential, impartial advice and help to resolve problems between students and the academic or administrative areas of the University
• ANU Academic Skills and Learning Centre supports you make your own decisions about how you learn and manage your workload.
• ANU Counselling Centre promotes, supports and enhances mental health and wellbeing within the University student community.
• ANUSA supports and represents all ANU students