Renewable Bioenergy Systems in Sweden and Denmark
Next offering 2010
Summer: 3 weeks (mid to late May)
http://studyabroad.msu.edu/programs/swedenrenew.html
Why Should Students Study Abroad? by Luke Reese and Ajit Srivastava
Students in the Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering Department have the opportunity to study biobased energy systems in Sweden through a three-week Study Abroad program held in conjunction with the Royal Institute of Technology (KTH) in Stockholm.
The program focus was chosen based on Sweden's ongoing conversion to biobased energy sources. Biobased renewable energy will play a critical role in meeting the ever-increasing global demand for energy. It is estimated that it took us 125 years to consume 1 trillion barrels of oil. It will take us less than 30 years to consume the next trillion barrels at the projected rate of consumption. It is vital that we develop and adapt renewable sources of energy that minimize dependence on imported oil and reduce global warming. Sweden is one of the most advanced of the developed countries in adopting an energy policy that encourages the use of renewable energy. Over 20 percent of the total energy consumed in Sweden comes from biobased resources, a goal for the U.S. by 2020.
The study abroad program is technical in nature and addresses various forms of renewable energies and associated technologies, economics, safety and environmental impacts. The first two weeks are offered in cooperation with the Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm.
Lectures and laboratory experiences are provided by engineering faculty from that institution. During the third week, students will visit a sustainable non-fossil fuel community, and several sites where renewable energy is being used on a commercial scale.
Course topics will include:
- Global Overview of Energy ( global demand and supply)
- Wind Energy ( technology application, limitations and cost)
- Biomass ( types, conversion technologies and applications)
- Fuel Cells ( principles, current status, and future role)
- Renewable Energy ( a systems approach)
Students will be required to enroll for six (6) credits from the following courses:
- BE 490 Independent Study 3 credits
- BE 491 Selected Topics 3 credits
- EGR 400 Special Problems in International Engineering 1-6 credits
- ME 491* Special Topics 3 credits
*Only available to Mechanical Engineering majors
Credits may be applicable toward degree requirements as engineering electives or ecosystems cognate for Biosystems Engineering majors. Others should consult with their individual major departments.
This program is designed for upper division undergraduates (junior or senior standing, or with permission from Professor Srivastava) who have proficiency in physics, chemistry, and mathematics (including calculus). Appropriate majors include applied engineering sciences, biosystems engineering, chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, physics, chemistry, forestry and resource development.
All students must be in good academic standing, with a grade point average of at least 2 .75 at the time of application. Meeting this minimum grade point average does not, however, guarantee admission.