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Embedding sustainability concepts into a renewable energy class
Singh, Pritpal
Singh, Pritpal
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EESD2025_#40_Singh.pdf
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Authors
Editors
Date
2025
Educational Level
ISCED Level 5 Batchelor's or equivalent
ISCED Level 6 Master's or equivalent
ISCED Level 6 Master's or equivalent
Curriculum Area
Geographical Setting
United States of America
Abstract
Renewable Energy classes are taught around the world at both the undergraduate and postgraduate levels. The typical content of such classes includes the design of solar energy systems, wind energy systems, mini-grids, hydroelectric systems, and bioenergy systems. Yet many broader sustainability concepts that address a wide range of the UN Sustainable Development goals is often not included in these courses. In this paper we describe the implementation of a broader set of sustainability concepts into a renewable energy class. Through a combination of in-class lecture material and homework exercises, students actively engage in the learning of topics including materials challenges in photovoltaic technologies, acidification of oceans due to carbon emissions, and political factors influencing the implementation of renewable energy systems. This paper will describe these exercises as well as provide student reflections on these topics.
Description
Keywords (free text)
renewable energy, UN SDGs, solar energy, engineering education, engineering for sustainable development, education for sustainabilty, sustainability in engineering