The wind energy minor is primarily intended for students majoring in engineering or atmospheric sciences, but is available to all that meet the prerequisites, Math 166 and Physics 222. The minor is comprised of 15 credits, of which 6 are required of all students obtaining the minor. As per the University Catalog, at least 9 credits cannot be used to satisfy any other degree, program or University requirement.
Importance of Wind Energy Minor
Wind energy is a pivotal component of our nation’s future energy portfolio, particularly given the desire to reduce the carbon footprint through the use of renewables. The Midwest region is among the richest wind regions in the nation, with Iowa being the second leading state in the nation as measured by installed wind capacity of 3670 MW, after Texas. This minor will help provide this industry (planners, manufacturers, developers, utilities, and maintenance providers) with technical students with the knowledge and understanding of the science, engineering and policy of wind energy.
Student Learning Outcomes
The objectives of the proposed minor are to provide a broad understanding of the wind energy industry from component design and manufacturing, electric generation, transmission, and grid operations, to policy.
- Communicate objectives of a long-term national energy portfolio and how wind energy will contribute to meeting those objectives
- Understand the wind energy systems and design trade offs for the large components (e.g., blade, turbine, tower, and foundation)
- Manufacturing and supply chain considerations for economic production.
- Identify problems and potential solutions associated with integrating high wind penetrations into the electric grid.
- Communicate most significant reliability problems for wind turbines and be conversant with related monitoring technologies and maintenance methods to address them.
- Identify effects of existing and potential policies on wind energy growth
Learning outcomes will be assessed using tests, quizzes, homework and term papers.