ENGR 121 engages students in understanding the applications of small-scale, sustainable energy technology in resource-limited regions where compact, robust, and low-cost systems for generating power are required. The technologies are focused primarily at the household level; students will explore the benefits and limitations of existing and proposed solutions. For each renewable energy technology studied, students will use hands-on lab experiences to deepen their understanding of the application’s function, gain an understanding of the fundamental physics governing them, and develop engineering estimation strategies to assess them. Methodologies for participatory development and co-creation will be explored in the context of evaluating the trade-offs for energy-related engineering projects. Students will learn to use life cycle assessment to analyze processes and products and look at energy infrastructure globally.

Units: 1

Max Enrollment: 16

Prerequisites: Fulfillment of the Quantitative Reasoning (QR) component of the Quantitative Reasoning & Data Literacy requirement.

Distribution Requirements: NPS - Natural and Physical Sciences

Typical Periods Offered: Every other year

Semesters Offered this Academic Year: Fall