Course content

Part 1: Basic thermodynamics - on the physical basis of energy management. Brief on energy, forms of energy, heat engines and other processes. Chemical energy, fuels incl. biomass, heating value, combustion equipment, energy, characterization of energy, efficiencies, thermodynamic values of energy, energy quality; exergy, anergy, irreversibility; thermomechanical (physical) and chemical exergy. Energy and exergy analysis. Use of energy and exergy.
Part 2: Energy and society - on the relations between society and energy use seen from a viewpoint of technology. Main issues of the world energy situation. Different energy systems and their structure: Extraction/production, transport, end use. Energy and power. On changes in systems, integration of new energy carriers and sources. Line-bound and non-line-bound systems. What is a "sustainable energy system"? Energy, exergy, and societal structure. Energy and exergy analyses for large enterprices and regions. Utilization of solar energy, geothermal energy, bioenergy, saline power and other renewable sources. Economics and energy; present-value analysis and energy carriers; economic values and other values. To look into the future; - about making and interpreting prognoses and scenario. Energy and ethics.

Learning outcome

To give insight in modern energy technologies and in fundamental issues ralated to conversion, use, and management of energy, both in relation to technology and to society.

Learning methods and activities

Lectures, exercises, self study. Term work (group or individual). The lectures and exercises are in English when students who do not speak Norwegian take the course. A postponed written exam ("kontinuasjonseksamen") can be changed to an oral exam.

Recommended previous knowledge

Fundamental knowledge of thermodynamics like TEP4115/TEP4120 Thermodynamics 1 or similar.

Course materials

T.J. Kotas: The exergy method of thermal plant analysis, Kriger, 1995. Compendium/article collection.

Credit reductions