2009

Fall Quarter Class

Fundamentals of Energy Efficiency: Understanding the Other Side of the Meter

This foundational course presents the key concepts and methods of energy efficiency. It explores how energy is converted into useful services and the role of increased efficiency in providing those services with less energy. The different forms of efficiency improvements and conservation are introduced, drawing upon examples in transportation, buildings, and industry. The practical implications of public policies, behavior, and economics are interspersed with technical and theoretical aspects. Students measure energy use and undertake independent investigations.

This graduate level class is offered in two formats:

Option 1 (TTP 289B-OO3/CRN #41729): Pass/No Pass for 1 unit
Option 2 (TTP 289A-003/CRN #41722): Letter grade for 3 units

Day/Time:        
Tuesday/Thursday
from 2:10-4:00pm

Room:
#7 Wellman Hall

2010

Winter Quarter Classes

The Economics of Energy Efficiency and Climate Change Mitigation
Future decisions to save energy or to mitigate climate change will be heavily based on the perceived costs and benefits of those actions. For that reason, it is important to understand the markets, the mechanisms, and decision-making processes behind the demand for energy. This course will explore factors that can accelerate (or derail) an energy-efficient, low-emissions future.

This class is offered in two formats:

Option 1(TTP 289B-003/CRN #61948): Pass/No Pass for 1 unit
Option 2 (TTP 289A-001/CRN #61941): Graded for 3 units

Day/Time:        
Tuesday/Thursday
from 2:10-4:00pm

Room:              
#110 Hunt Hall

D-Lab I: Overview of Energy and Development

This overview course is designed to educate and expose students to energy and energy technology issues specific to developing countries. The graduate level class will focus on schemes to disseminate new technologies and provide hands-on practical experience in designing and implementing sustainable energy solutions. Students will apply basic engineering, social science, and business skills to evaluate a prospective project/venture through guest lecturers, lab modules, and case studies.

This class is offered in two formats:

Option 1 (TTP 289B-006/CRN #61951): Pass/No Pass for 1 unit
Option 2 (TTP 289A-006/CRN #64041): Graded for 3 units

Day/Time:        
Tuesday/Thursday
from 10:30-11:50am

Room:              
#1128 Hart Hall

2010

Spring Quarter Classes

Innovations in Energy Efficiency
Technical and social innovations could significantly expand the possibilities for saving energy and reducing emissions. But which innovations are actually feasible? Economic? Likely to have a major impact? Through a series of case-studies, students will acquire the tools and methods to evaluate innovations and other proposals to reduce energy use. The course will focus on innovations emerging from research at UC Davis, especially in lighting, cooling, and transportation so as to maximize the participation of local researchers. The course will also examine “social inventions” leading to changes that could have a large impact on energy use.

This class is offered in two formats:

Option 1: Pass/No Pass for 1 unit
Option 2: Graded for 3 units

Location/Time: TBD

D-Lab II: Energy & Development - Design & Dissemination
Are energy issues in developing countries technological, business-related, social, or political? What are appropriate technologies? Who is the customer? How do you develop a business plan in a developing world context? This hands-on class will focus on approaches to overcoming the barriers for the design and dissemination of existing energy technologies in the developing world. Curriculum will include practical labs, a business development clinic, case studies, independent research, and guest speakers. Students will form groups (E-teams) and focus on a particular energy issue or problem to tackle within a targeted region. Teams will examine and develop possible solutions to the issue(s) they have selected, including particular technology design as well as delivery strategy and/or development of a business model. Collaboration with faculty mentors, private sector experts, non-governmental organizations, and partner communities will serve to provide student teams with context and direction. In addition to a final presentation, E-teams will have a core project they will complete that will include one or more of the following: Product prototype, business plan, grant application, or investment pitch. D-lab II is the second of a 2-part series focusing on energy in developing countries and is based on the MIT D-lab series.

This class is offered in two formats:

Option 1 (TTP 289B-007/ CRN# 81487): Pass/No Pass for 1 unit
Option 2 (TTP 289A-007/ CRN# 81477): Graded for 3 units

Day/Time:
Tues/Thurs
from 10:30am to 11:50am

Room:
#3 Wellman (location is subject to change due to need for larger room size; check back later)