WTT 103 - Introduction to Wind Energy

Credits: 3
Lecture Hours: 3
Lab Hours: 0
Practicum Hours: 0
Work Experience: 0
Course Type: Voc/Tech

To provide the student with knowledge of common terminology and general information related to the wind industry. The student will become familiar with the various types of turbines, the technology, sectors, jobs and organizations as well as an outlook on the future of the wind industry.
Prerequisite OR Corequisite: WTT 223 or Instructor Approval
Competencies

Define common industry terms
1. Describe related acronyms
2. Discuss related components
3. Examine sub systems
Discuss the status of the wind industry
1. Research current trends
2. Identify major and minor participants
3. Examine government influences
Examine wind turbine history
1. Research early wind turbine systems
2. Identify evolutionary trends in related technologies
3. Discuss driving factors that promoted change
Describe small remote applications
1. Examine system operation of small turbines
2. Discuss advantages and disadvantages
3. Identify emerging technologies that support this sector
4. Research suppliers to this sector
Describe hybrid systems
1. Examine system operation
2. Compare and contrast to non-hybrid systems
Define utility scale systems
1. Examine systems operation and flow
2. Relate to other systems
Explain wind energy economics
1. Estimate project costs
2. Demonstrate a cost benefit analysis
3. Identify and compare to other alternatives
Discuss other alternatives of power production
1. Examine solar energy conversion and operation
2. discuss traditional electrical generation
3. Examine water powered energy generation
Identify environmental issues
1. Research environmental concerns
2. Discuss environmental impact studies
3. Examine related local and federal laws
Assess the future of wind energy
1. Discuss studies and projections
2. Model future expansion opportunities
3. Identify workforce needs
Identify industry trade associations and organizations
1. Discuss state and national groups.
2. Describe the stakeholders/members
3. Discuss range of interests
Discuss energy independence
1. Identify opportunities and challenges
2. Research current initiatives
Examine sectors and jobs in the wind industry
1. Discuss current needs
2. Discuss projected needs
3. Identify skill sets to meet needs projections