Module manager: Professor G Jose
Email: g.jose@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) View Timetable
Year running 2026/27
This module is not approved as a discovery module
This module will cover the materials selection and processing for grid-scale energy generation technologies that will help enable the UK to reach its NetZero carbon emissions by 2050.
The aim of this module is to develop a working knowledge of the science and engineering of materials required for the grid scale energy transition to Net Zero carbon emissions by 2050. Materials specific lectures and tutorials will be used to develop this knowledge.
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following learning outcomes relevant to the subject:
1. An understanding of the motivation and requirements for zero emission energy generation, distribution and storage technologies (EGDST) in comparison with conventional fossil fuel energy sources.
2. The knowledge and understanding of the specifications, design, processing and application of materials used in zero emission EGDST.
3. Apply that knowledge and understanding to the design and selection of materials for specific applications.
4. Apply a comprehensive knowledge of mathematics, statistics, natural science and engineering principles to the solution of complex problems. Much of the knowledge will be at the forefront of the particular subject of study and informed by a critical awareness of new developments and the wider context of engineering.
5. Select and evaluate technical literature and other sources of information to address complex problems.
6. Design solutions for complex problems that meet a combination of societal, user, business and customer needs as appropriate. This will involve consideration of applicable health & safety, diversity, inclusion, cultural, societal, environmental and commercial matters, codes of practice and industry standards.
7. Apply an integrated or systems approach to the solution of complex problems.
8. Evaluate the environmental and societal impact of solutions to complex problems and minimise adverse impacts.
9. Adopt a holistic and proportionate approach to the mitigation of security risks.
10. Discuss the role of quality management systems and continuous improvement in the context of complex problems.
11. Apply knowledge of engineering management principles, commercial context, project and change management, and relevant legal matters including intellectual property rights.
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following skills:
a. Critical thinking and problem solving
b. Communication
c. Technical skills
- Global energy demands; current energy generation mix and environmental consequences
- Generation
- Photovoltaics: semiconductor physics; photovoltaic effect, silicon, compound semiconductors, hybrid perovskites
- Nuclear: reactor principles; fuel life cycle; waste disposal and containment
- Wind and wave power: principles, materials requirements and fulfilment
- Distribution and storage
- Grid principles and limitations; energy vectors
- Hydrogen: generation; storage & transport; fuel cells
- Battery technologies: electrochemistry; Li-ion, Na-ion, and alternative chemistries; solid state batteries.
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Supervision | 5 | 1 | 5 |
| Lecture | 11 | 2 | 22 |
| Seminar | 11 | 2 | 22 |
| Private study hours | 151 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 49 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 200 | ||
Supervision meetings for formative feedback on coursework and knowledge development.
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Assignment | Coursework | 50 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 50 | |
Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated
| Exam type | Exam duration | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Standard exam (closed essays, MCQs etc) | 2.0 Hrs Mins | 50 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Exams) | 50 | |
Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated
Check the module area in Minerva for your reading list
Last updated: 30/04/2026
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