Program Overview

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EE6048: Smart Grids

Module Goal

To develop an understanding of the principles and methods related to the planning and operation of electrical distribution networks, understand how distributed energy resources affect these activities, and develop knowledge of the technical solutions that need to be deployed in order to address the new challenges of the Smart Grid.

Module Content

• Power distribution network design and operation
• Integration of renewable energy generation and distributed energy resources
• Protection in power distribution networks
• Power system voltage control
• Power system state estimation
• Power flow and optimal power flow techniques
• Smart grids and microgrids
• Smart metering
• Power system analysis and design exercises

Additional Teaching Mode Information

Teaching Methods

• 12 x 2Hr(s) Lectures
• 2 x 1Hr(s) Tutorials

Lectures take place in-person on Mondays 10:00-12:00 on the UCC main campus. These lectures are recorded and all course materials are made available online.

Practicalities

Assessment

Category	Marks per Category
Written Examination	70
Continuous Assessment	30

Why Choose

This module is designed for industry professionals wishing to upskill and/or move to the energy sector.

On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:

1. Describe the operating practices and design standards in modern power distribution networks
2. Analyse the operation of medium- and low-voltage electricity distribution networks
3. Design a voltage control scheme for a radial power distribution network
4. Describe and apply the principles of power flow, optimal power flow and power system state estimation
5. Analyse the impacts of distributed energy resources (e.g. renewable generation, electric vehicles, heat pumps, energy storage) on distribution network operation and planning
6. Describe the principles and operation of microgrids and smart metering systems
7. Analyse and design power distribution systems using industry-standard software tools

Requirements

Applicants must have:

• A Second Class Honours Grade 2 (or equivalent) in a primary honours degree (NFQ Level 8) in any discipline of Engineering
• OR
• A Second Class Honours Grade 2 (or equivalent) in a primary honours degree (NFQ Level 8) in areas of science that required having completed level 8 mathematical subjects deemed equivalent to those of engineering (e.g. Physics, Mathematical Sciences, some Computing Science degrees), pending assessment by Programme Director
• OR
• A pass in any accredited level 8 Engineering degree followed by professional experience deemed of sufficient added value, pending assessment by the Programme Director

A quota will be allocated to applicants who do not meet these entry requirements. These applicants will be considered under Recognition of Prior Learning and assessed on the following factors:

• Academic achievement
• Prior Work Experience
• Letter of Reference
• Personal Statement

Fees and Costs

€750

How To Apply

Applications will open in July 2025

Contact Details

• Dr Barry Hayes

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EE6035: Electrical Power Systems

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