Energy Conversions and Environment

The role of energy-sources exploitation in the development of human civilisation and society. A global view of the problems of energy supply, and the factors influencing energy-consumption needs. The basic physical laws of energy conversion and the technologies for primary energy-sources exploitation (trends in development). The environmental and social acceptability of energy-conversion technologies. Dilemmas and the technical problems of covering energy needs, applying renewable energy sources, and a comparison with classical technologies. The environmental impact of energy conversions – facts or fashion trends.  The rational use of energy vs. "saving regardless of costs". Strategic trends and regulations in the EU in the field of energy supply. Economic assessment of meeting energy needs (economic assessment of various solutions and energy-saving measures). Looking to the future.

The student will be given a broad overview of the problem of energy supply. This is important because wrong decisions, as a rule, have their origins in partial treatments of the problem. Assuming that the student is familiar with the basic characteristics, technical possibilities and economic indices of the exploitation of primary energy sources, the student will gain the knowledge needed to decide on the field of meeting energy needs on the micro and global levels.

Lectures, seminar work with individual students.