Energy management and renewable power design projects from a university power grid

Abstract

Project-based learning is a recognized method for engaging students. Projects involving industrial power systems give students exposure to current methods and practices relevant to their future employment. Students benefit from the knowledge and experience of practicing engineers. Combining classroom instruction with a capstone design project reinforces key principles and gives students a practical application for their knowledge. This paper reports how electrical facilities of a university and personnel responsible for its design and maintenance became key partners in energy management and renewable power projects for a capstone senior design course. This paper documents grid operations, power plant efficiency, and energy cost control projects, focusing on a substation design for integrating a wind turbine into the university's grid. The project includes topics in power systems analysis using practical design methods. Effective collaboration among university service and academic units can enhance students' learning experiences. © American Society for Engineering Education, 2009.