www.eng.ed.ac.

uk/postgraduate

2019-2020

MSc Electrical Power Engineering (1 year)

MSc Advanced Power Engineering (2 years)
Two innovative postgraduate programmes with a strong focus on modern power engineering technologies including renewable
energy conversion, advanced electric machines and smart grids, delivered by the world-leading Institute for Energy Systems.
Influencing
the world since
The University of Edinburgh is
one of the world’s top universities,
consistently ranked in the world top
50 and placed 18th in the 2019 QS
World University Rankings.

Our entrepreneurial and cross-

disciplinary culture attracts students
as well as staff from over 140
countries,which creates a unique
Edinburgh experience. We provide
a stimulating working, learning
and teaching environment with
access to excellent facilities and
attract the world’s best, from Nobel
Prize laureates to future explorers,
pioneers and inventors. As host
to more than 35,000 students, the
University of Edinburgh continues to
attract the world’s greatest minds.

If you have any questions about

either of the MSc programmes,
please do not hesitate to contact us
at
pgtenquiries@eng.ed.ac.uk or
+44 (0)131 651 3565. We also hold
regular virtual visiting sessions
and would be happy to provide
you with information about joining
these sessions to speak with us
about the MScs in Electrical Power
Engineering and Advanced Power
Engineering.
 www.eng.ed.ac.uk/postgraduate

Welcome from the

1583
MSc Programme
Director

Thank you for your interest in the Edinburgh Masters in

Power Engineering. This brochure provides a
comprehensive presentation of the two programmes
we offer, namely the one-year MSc in Electrical Power
Engineering and the new for 2018-19, two-year MSc in
Advanced Power Engineering.

The one-year MSc in Electrical Power Engineering

(EPE) degree covers the fundamentals of electrical
power as well as the state of the art in industry.
Students of this degree follow a structured taught
programme during the two semesters, and then carry
out a dissertation during the summer term, working
alongside our world-leading researchers, within the
Institute for Energy Systems.

Our new, two-year full-time MSc in Advanced Power

Engineering (APE) degree shares the same structured
taught component with the MSc EPE, but following the
summer break, students carry out a much larger
research project spanning over the two semesters
of their second year of study. Our students have
the option to either conduct academic research in
collaboration with one of our research groups, or an
industrial project with one of our partnering companies.

We very much hope you will select Edinburgh as the

next step of your academic life and become a member
of our international community of learners, for life. See
you in King’s Buildings, in September!

With warm regards,

Dr Aristides E Kiprakis SMIEEE MIET

 “ We are
Welcome From the Director of Discipline
for Electronic and Electrical Engineering

consistently
The School of Engineering is proud to host a number of high
quality degree programmes in the Electrical & Electronic
Engineering (EEE) discipline, both at undergraduate and

ranked in
Masters level. Last year we had over 330 undergraduate
students in Electrical Engineering from around the world, and
over 100 students on EEE-related MSc programmes. These

the top 50
students were taught by over 30 research-active academic staff,
including several industrial professors.

The vibrant set of MSc programmes included within our

universities
discipline covers Signal Processing & Communications,
Sustainable Energy Systems, Electrical Power Engineering,
and Electronics. These programmes give our students a unique

in the world
opportunity to study their chosen field to an advanced level.

Our academic staff work across seven research institutes within

the School of Engineering which covers Digital
Communications, Bioengineering, Integrated Micro & Nano
Systems, Energy Systems, Infrastructure & Environment,
Multiscale Thermofluids and Materials & Processes. Over
300 PhD and Post-doctoral Research Associates are actively For this to happen, a new generation of highly skilled electrical
engaged in state-of-the-art research projects. power engineers is required, able to analyse, design and
operate power components and systems at a wide range of
Our advanced research feeds into teaching through the MSc different scales. Making use of its world-leading teaching
research projects, and up-to-date teaching materials and and research track record, facilities and academic staff, the
examples in our lecture courses. The School of Engineering University of Edinburgh offers these Master’s degrees in
continually invests in teaching, including increasing the number Electrical and Advanced Power Engineering, specifically tailored
of teaching, support and technical staff, investing in equipment to the interests of our students and the needs of the industry.
to support teaching and research projects, and ensuring lecture
recording is available through the newly introduced University
“Media Hopper Relay” service. Why Pursue a Power Engineering MSc at
Edinburgh?
The School of Engineering is delighted that you are interested
in our Masters in Signal Processing & Communications, one Now celebrating its 150th year since its establishment,
of our most dynamic and challenging programmes. I wish you engineering research and education at Edinburgh is one of the
every success in your studies. best in the country and highly respected at international level.
In the 2019 QS University Rankings the University is placed
Professor John Thompson 18th in the world; within this ranking we are in the top-3 UK
universities offering power engineering Masters and the top UK
university offering a 2-year programme in this area.
The Power Engineering Industry
The School of Engineering has also been awarded the highest
possible ratings for research. In the 2014 REF results, 94%
As the demand for electrical power is set to increase worldwide
of the overall research activity produced by the Edinburgh
over the next few decades, electrical power systems will need
Research Partnership in Engineering (ERPE) was assessed as
to be continuously upgraded and expanded, but modern power
world leading or internationally excellent.
systems must be designed with the challenge of addressing the
Global Energy Trilemma in mind, i.e. provision of secure,
Our teaching staff are in the forefront of the sector, conducting
equitable and environmentally sustainable energy.
cutting-edge research. A few of the flagship current and recent
projects include:
The increased energy demand, the uptake of environmentally
friendly but intermittent renewable generation, and the
• The UK EPSRC Centre for Energy Systems Integration
introduction of new technologies such as electric vehicles, LED
(CESI)
lighting and battery storage, impose technical challenges that
• The EU FP7 Initial Training Network ‘ADVANTAGE’ on
traditional power engineering equipment, systems and
Smart Grids
processes can only address with limited success. Disruptive
• The UK EPSRC Centre for Advanced Materials for
solutions such as novel electric machines, advanced power
Renewable Energy Generation (CAMREG)
electronic devices, systems and control, as well as emerging
• The UK EPSRC Centre for Marine Energy Research
network topologies and operating paradigms, such as
(UKCMER)
microgrids and the smart grid, will be required to be adopted if
• The EU FP7 DTOCEAN on Marine Energy Optimisation and
the above challenges are to be met.
Integration
One-year MSc in Electrical Power Engineeing: https://edin.ac/msc-epe
Two-year MSc in Advanced Power Engineering: https://edin.ac/msc-ape
 www.eng.ed.ac.uk/postgraduate

Our objective is to train the next generation of power engineers realm. You will have training in teamwork, innovation and
who are aware of the most recent, cutting edge developments scientific communication and will develop skills in the planning
in power engineering, and have the skills and training needed and execution of a tailored research project.
for the most demanding industrial and academic settings.
These postgraduate programmes are designed to provide a
solid basis in current developments associated with the trends Teaching and Assessment Methods
in the power industry through a combination of taught modules,
workshops, a summer dissertation (MSc EPE) or a full-year Teaching is comprised of a broad range of learning methods
research project (MSc APE), and a number of supporting including conventional classroom and laboratory based
activities delivered by our internationally leading experts in the lectures, tutorials and student-directed learning, backed up
field. by a range of innovative teaching activities, and assessed by
means of written examinations and project work. Some courses
have elements of continuous assessment, while others are
What Do the Degree Involve? purely examination based. Lectures are larger-scale learning
environments, where a member of academic staff teaches a
The programmes develop throughout the first two semesters group of students directly. Tutorials are more personalised
from advanced fundamental topics and research tools and learning in which smaller groups of students discuss lecture
techniques in electrical power engineering (1st semester), to topics with a member of academic staff and complete set
specialist courses on emerging technologies and advanced problems based around those topics. The University has an
numerical methods for power engineering problems (2nd expanding network of video capture-ready classrooms which
semester). The taught component of the programmes is then are utilised for most of our courses.
followed by the summer dissertation (MSc EPE) or the year
2 reseasrch projects (MSc APE), where the acquired skills in
various areas are put into practice in application to an actual Supervised Research
power engineering problem.
The research projects are determined early during second
For their year 2 research project, students of the MSc in semester. Students have occasional meetings with academic
Advanced Power Engineering have two options: supervisors and do some initial work such as literature review,
• undertake an industry-led project in collaboration with one preparatory work required by the topic, and determination of a
of our partnering companies work plan. The Mission Statement is submitted in April.
• conduct academic research within one of our reserach
groups For the MSc in Electrical Power Engineering, the main phase
Upon completion of the programme our graduates are up-to- of the research work starts after the May exams. In mid-June a
date in topics covering the current state-of-the-art developments project seminar takes place, where students present their plans
in electrical power engineering, including modern approaches for their research. Around mid-August, the work is completed
to the analysis of properties, dynamics and control of power and the dissertation is submitted. A poster, presented to the
networks, machines and converters. Institute for Energy Systems is the final deliverable.

We also will help you develop your conceptual and analytical For the MSc in Advanced Power Engineering the Year 2
skills for the critical evaluation of the current scientific literature research project starts in early September, following the
in specialised topics within the electrical power engineering
One-year MSc in Electrical Power Engineeing: https://edin.ac/msc-epe
Two-year MSc in Advanced Power Engineering: https://edin.ac/msc-ape
“ We are in
the top 5 for
research
funding in
the UK
summer break. In mid-October students attend the project
seminar, setting out a detailed work plan for their research
work. At the end of December the students submit the Phase 1
Throughout the year there are a multitude of networking
opportunities and events oriented at introducing our MSc
students to the industrial representatives, but also encouraging
report and receive formative feedback. Following the Christmas their engagement with the wider vibrant University of Edinburgh
break, they attend a 1:1 progress review with their project power engineering community.
examiner. Work is completed in April and the final report is
submitted. Students are then required to prepare the final
project deliverable, which is a presentation of their research and Scholarships and Bursaries
results, given to the Institute of Energy Systems.
The School of Engineering and the University of Edinburgh
offer many scholarships and bursaries. Three programmes
Our Power Engineering Community that regularly support our MSc students are the Chevening,
the Avangrid and the Engineering International Scholarship
At Edinburgh we treat our students as our extended family and schemes. If you fit the criteria, we would encourage you
we hope that they see us, the staff, in the same way. to apply to any of these funding programmes. For more
Throughout the year, there are many events that bring together information visit the University’s scholarships website: www.
everyone associated with Power Engineering at Edinburgh: ed.ac.uk/student-funding/ postgraduate or the MSc EPE
students, staff and industrial partners. Many of these events webpage: https://edin.ac/msc-epe. and the MSc APE webpage:
are organised by the students themselves, who run a series of https://edin.ac/msc-ape.
seminars, industrial visits and socials including BBQs. We hope
to see you there and welcome you into our community!
What Can I do After My Degree?

Links to Industry A select number of top performing students who excel in their
research project and demonstrate the critical thinking necessary
The Edinburgh Masters in Power Engineering make use of to proceed to further study may be invited to apply for a PhD
the extensive links the Institute for Energy Systems has built with us. For further information on PhD projects, please visit:
over the years with industry, including companies such as www.eng.ed.ac.uk/postgraduate/degrees/phd.
Scottish Power, Scottish & Southern Energy, Costain Group,
Arup, Flexitricity and General Electric. An Industrial Advisory The Institute for Energy Systems at the School of Engineering
Board has been set up to provide advice and feedback on the has strong links with industry, including companies such as
content of the programme and we have industrialists providing Scottish Power, Scottish & Southern Energy, Costain Group,
regular and direct input to the teaching process, such as invited Arup, Flexitricity, General Electric and more. Graduates of our
lectures and topics and industrial advice to the MSc projects. programmes regularly take up posts within these and other
We also utilise the recruitment events organised by or for companies.
the School of Engineering. Throughout the year there are a
multitude of networking opportunities and events oriented at A strong transferrable skills programme is available to our
introducing our MSc students to the industrial representatives, students through the university’s Institute for Academic
but also encouraging their engagement with the wider vibrant Development, which includes the opportunity to attend
University of Edinburgh power engineering community. workshops on writing and presentation skills, advanced English
courses, CV surgery workshops etc. The Careers Service at

One-year MSc in Electrical Power Engineeing: https://edin.ac/msc-epe

Two-year MSc in Advanced Power Engineering: https://edin.ac/msc-ape
 “
www.eng.ed.ac.uk/postgraduate

At the heart
of ideas
and
inspiration
the University of Edinburgh (www.ed.ac.uk/careers/postgrad/taught-pg)
offers our graduates support throughout their degree and for two years
afterwards. The Careers Service can help with your job search and
marketing yourself effectively, as well as making career decisions to
ensure that you are moving towards your goals.

What is the Admissions Team Looking for?

The minimum entry requirement for both programmes is a UK
2:1 degree, or its international equivalent, in electrical/electronic
engineering or a closely related subject. Other related backgrounds
may be considered on a case-by-case basis. Appropriate professional
experience will also be considered. You will find our most up to date
entry requirements at: www.ed.ac.uk/pg/937 (MSc EPE) and www.
ed.ac.uk/pg/960 (MSc APE). A personal statement is also required,
outlining your motivation for postgraduate study in power engineering.
You will also need to provide a recent academic reference. To read
further information about the application process and advice on
submitting an application please either visit the “Apply Now” page on
the University of Edinburgh Postgraduate Online here: www.ed.ac.
uk/studying/postgraduate/applying or email the Postgraduate Taught
Office at the School of Engineering at pgtenquiries@eng.ed.ac.uk.

If you receive an offer to study at the School of Engineering you will

be invited to attend a virtual visit session. The sessions run regularly
throughout the year and you will have an opportunity to hear more
about the University of Edinburgh and the School of Engineering.
Applicants and prospective students can meet with staff in an online
setting, listen to presentations and chat with the them using audio or
text to find our more about the School and the programmes we offer.

Where are we Located?

The School of Engineering is located on the Kings Buildings campus,
which is located on the south side of Edinburgh. Getting to and from
King’s Buildings is easy due to its excellent public transport, walking
and cycling links. King’s Buildings campus is approximately 2.5
kilometres from the Central Area and is extremely well served by the
public bus system. The University provides a shuttle bus between the
King’s Buildings and the Central Area during term time.
 Edinburgh,
a city of
influence

Edinburgh is regularly voted as one of the best places to live in the world. Cobbled
lanes, dramatic skylines and striking architecture combine to produce a stimulating
setting for the writers, philosophers, political thinkers and inventors whose stories
have been woven into the capital’s fabric throughout history. The city’s medieval
Old Town and Georgian New Town, which offer contrasting history and architecture,
have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site.

With an array of museums, galleries, parks, gardens, pubs, clubs, restaurants,

shops, theatres, cinemas, sports facilities and much more, you’ll find something for
every taste in the city. And not forgetting the biggest arts festival in the world, the
Edinburgh Festival Fringe, which takes place in the city every August.

Well known for its friendly people, its safe, green environment and its stunning
architecture, Edinburgh is a compact city, which makes it easy to get around.
Wherever you are in the city, you are seldom far from open countryside and our
central location and excellent transport links make it easy to travel to other parts of
Scotland.

Edinburgh enjoys a creative and cultural significance that was further confirmed
with its appointment as the world’s first UNESCO City of Literature – a permanent
title reflecting its recognition as a worldwide centre for literary activity. You couldn’t
ask for a more inspiring setting in which to further your knowledge and broaden
your horizons.
www.eng.ed.ac.uk/postgraduate
 Timeplan: MSc EPE & 1st year MSc APE
Semester 1: September – December

Welcome Week

Semester 1: Fundamentals

During this first semester you will study

fundamental material on electrical power
engineering.

Exam Revision

Semester 1 Exam Diet

University closes for Christmas

Semester 2: January – April

University reopens
after Christmas break

January Welcome Week

Semester 2: Application

During the second semester you will

build on the knowledge gained in first
semester and study advanced and
modern topics in power engineering.
Dissertation topics will be determined in
late January.
Flexible Learning Week

A week of university-wide extracurricular

activities to augment your Semester 2 resumes
learing experience. (mid-February).

Spring Vacation

Exam Revision

Semester 2 Exam Diet

Dissertation: May - August (MSc EPE only)

Dissertation

Dissertation Submission
 www.eng.ed.ac.uk/postgraduate

MSc in Electrical Power Engineering

Class 2017-2018
 Timeplan: Year 2 (MSc APE)

Semester 1: September – December

Welcome Week

Semester 1: Project Phase 1

First phase of research work

commences in September

Project Seminar

You will present your inital work and

project plan to supervisors and the
class.
Submission of Phase 1
Report

Short report of progress submitted and

feedback is provided

University closes for Christmas

Semester 2: January – April

University reopens
after Christmas break

January Welcome Week

Progresss Review

You will attend a 1:1 interview with

your project examiner to review your
progress and discuss remaining work.

Flexible Learning Week

A week of university-wide extracurricular

activities to augment your
learing experience. (mid-February). Semester 2 resumes

Spring Vacation

Final Report
Submission

Final report is submitted around

the third week of April.

Semester 2 Exam Diet

You will present your findings to the

Institute for Energy Systems in
the last week of April
www.eng.ed.ac.uk/postgraduate
Course Information

Semester 1 Courses
Power Systems & Machines
Compulsory course; 10 credits; 22 Lecture hours, 10 Tutorial hours. Assessment: 100% exam based

This course provides students with a good knowledge and understanding of: the steady state performance, the transient behaviour
and control of synchronous machines; power system protection equipment; principles of overcurrent protection of power systems
and machines; operation and protection of distributed generators. A number of relevant technical and engineering aspects of the
analysis of steady state and transient performance of electrical machines and power supply systems will be considered in the
context of operation, protection and control of power supply systems with distributed generation, including their application during
the system design and operational stages.

Power Conversion
Compulsory course; 10 credits; 22 Lecture hours, 10 Tutorial hours. Assessment: 100% exam based

This course will develop understanding of fundamental power electronic building blocks and modulation techniques, employed
in solid-state power converters. The concept of switch mode power conversion will be developed starting with basic circuits and
extended to more complex topologies and functions, including the generation of two and three phase ac waveforms. The course
will introduce a range of power electronic devices and show how the properties these devices affect the design and performance
of power converters. A range of case studies will be used to illustrate how power electronics may be applied to a real world
applications.

Power Engineering Research Techniques

Compulsory course; 10 credits; 9 Lecture hours, 12 Lab hours, 9 Project Workshop hours. Assessment: 100% coursework based

This course aims to equip students with essential skills for power engineering research and comprises three parts:

Research Methods: students study essential topics for the completion of a research project such as literature surveying, project
planning
& reporting, time management, Gantt charts, plagiarism & Intellectual Property issues, presentation of research outcomes etc.

Power Engineering Modelling Techniques: working in the computer laboratory, in the following four weeks students will gain
experience in using software tools such as Matlab/Simulink to model power systems & machines.

Power Engineering Group Project: the final part of this course will require students to work in small groups and deliver a research
project in power engineering. The project will allow them to use all the skills and tools they learned earlier in this course and will
conclude with the submission of a report and preparation and presentation of a poster.

Technologies for Sustainable Energy

Compulsory course; 10 credits; 22 Lecture hours, 10 Tutorial hours. Assessment: 100% exam based

This course aims to provide an introduction to the engineering principles and designs underpinning key sustainable / renewable
energy technologies. It is structured to familiarise students with an analytical toolkit to allow them to independently appraise
such technologies and their role in the energy system. The course offers a reasonably in-depth introduction to renewable
energy technologies. It sets renewable energy in the wider context and develop a basic qualitative and quantitative toolkit for
appraising technologies. It examines each of the major technologies covering aspects such as: resource, conversion technologies,
practicalities, economics and environmental impacts. Finally it briefly examines how renewables can be integrated effectively within
the energy system.

One-year MSc in Electrical Power Engineeing: https://edin.ac/msc-epe

Two-year MSc in Advanced Power Engineering: https://edin.ac/msc-ape
 www.eng.ed.ac.uk/postgraduate

Energy and Environmental Economics

Compulsory course; 10 credits; 22 Lecture hours. Assessment: 100% coursework based

The aim of this course is to provide a theoretical grounding in economics from first principles, exploring the fundamental principles
of efficiency in the distribution of resources in society. These principles are then applied in the fields of energy and the environment.
No prior knowledge of economics is assumed.

Advanced Control for Power Engineering

Compulsory course; 10 credits; 22 Lecture hours, 11 Tutorial hours. Assessment: 100% exam based

The course starts with a revision of dynamic systems, in the context of electrical power systems, leading to the derivation of state
space models. Criteria for system stability and observability of multivariable systems are studied. The methods to design control
structures based on feed-forward and feedback loops are then presented, using techniques such as pole placement or optimal
regulator methods.

The course develops the analytical tools for the design of appropriate controllers to improve system performance. The design of
observers to supplement measurements from sensors will be also introduced. The development of the theoretical and practical
frameworks around discrete-time systems will then allow the implementation of controllers on digital platforms.

The students will be asked to implement the control techniques learned during the course in Matlab / Simulink models to familiarize
themselves with control dynamics and design of MIMO systems.

Semester 2 Courses
Power Electronics for Energy Systems
Compulsory course; 10 credits; 20 Lecture hours, 11 Tutorial hours. Assessment: written exam 70%, coursework 30%

This course builds on the material covered in the 1st semester Power Conversion course. It expands the study of power electronic
converters in high power utility scale and drive system applications. Topics covered include applications of power electronics
in energy systems; modelling and modulation of three phase inverters including the use of two axis representations; high
capacity, high voltage power converters including thyristor based and modern multi-level voltage source converters; Flexible AC
Transmission Systems (FACTS); power electronics for HVDC systems.

The course focuses on circuit topologies, modulation and models for power converters. Example applications are used to illustrate
the role of these devices in modern power systems.

Advanced Electrical Machines

Compulsory course; 10 credits; 22 Lecture hours, 10 Tutorial hours. Assessment: 100% exam based

The course introduces students to the more fundamental design aspects of electrical machines, rotary and linear, in particular
electromagnetic analysis for machines. Magnetic circuit modelling and finite element modelling methods are introduced to enable
calculation of magnetic fields and forces within electromagnetic devices. Modelling of different materials are included. These
techniques are then applied to induction machines, permanent magnet machines and switched reluctance machines. For induction
machines stator winding and squirrel cage rotor design is included. D-Q analysis is introduced as a way of modelling transient
behaviour of machines. Real-world examples are used troughout for applications such as electric vehicles, MAGLEV systems, and
renewable energy converters.

One-year MSc in Electrical Power Engineeing: https://edin.ac/msc-epe

Two-year MSc in Advanced Power Engineering: https://edin.ac/msc-ape
Power Systems Engineering & Economics
Compulsory course; 20 credits; 50 computer workshop hours. Assessment: 100% coursework based

This course provides students with a good theoretical knowledge and understanding of power system analysis and operation,
including hands-on power system modelling experience. Operation of electricity generation, transmission and distribution systems
with increasing renewable content will be analysed using iterative methods for solving network power flow equations and simulated
in a power-flow simulation software package (PowerWorld). The basic principles of power system economics (main regulatory
regimes and pricing principles) will be analysed in order to combine power system analysis and economic appraisal, providing
an insight and ability to estimate future developments. Technical and economic implications of transition to a low-carbon energy
systems will be discussed.

Semester 2 Optional Courses

In the 2nd semester the students must select one of two sets of course options: the first option is suited to students mostly
interested in the distibution and utilisation of electricity, while the second is suited to students wanting to specialise in renewable
energy conversion technologies.

Option A: 1 x 20 credit course

Distributed Energy Resources and Smart Grids
Compulsory course; 20 credits; 33 Lecture hours, 11 Tutorial hours. Assessment: written exam 75%, coursework 25%

This course introduces existing and emerging power engineering technologies in the areas of distributed energy resources (DERs)
and the smart grid, from concept and basic theory to real-world applications. It covers distributed renewable generation including
wind, solar and hydro plants, various energy storage technologies as well as the impact of modern loads such as electric vehicles,
heat pumps and LED lighting on the power system. It introduces the concepts of load management, demand response and active
network management. Finally it gives a holistic overview of the constituent technologies of the smart grid, including power network
components, control, information and communications technologies and smart metering.

Option B: 2 x 10 credit courses

Solar Energy & Photovoltaic Systems

Compulsory course; 10 credits; 20 Lecture hours, 6 Tutorial hours. Assessment: written exam 80%, coursework 20%

This course presents and assesses the fundamentals of solar energy conversion. It starts with a discussion of the resource and
the mechanisms of its propagation through the atmosphere up to the point of conversion. It then discusses the various conversion
processes (photovoltaic converters, concentrated thermal power generation and solar heating/cooling). Grid-tied and islanded
systems are considered and storage for solar energy is also covered. The state-of-the-art of each of these technologies is
discussed, including their market and economic aspects.

The course includes a project, for which the students working in groups, undertake the design and dimensioning of a solar energy
conversion system. Their results are submitted as a group report and presented at a poster session during the last week of the
term.

Principles of Wind Energy

Compulsory course; 10 credits; 22 Lecture hours, 11 Tutorial hours. Assessment: 100% exam based

Wind energy is the fast growing renewable source for electricity generation. The objective of this course is to present a broad
overview of the technology covering aspects such as the history of wind turbine development, the characteristics of the wind
and its impact on site selection, and the design, manufacture, and operation of modern wind turbines. The course course covers
both the mechanical and electrical aspects of wind energy conversion and has a practical flavour, drawing on examples from the
wind turbine engineering and development sectors. The political and economic implications of wind energy are explored in the
final lecture.

One-year MSc in Electrical Power Engineeing: https://edin.ac/msc-epe

Two-year MSc in Advanced Power Engineering: https://edin.ac/msc-ape
“
www.eng.ed.ac.uk/postgraduate

“The best thing about the

programme is that al-
In our though it’s a very challeng-
ing course, there is plenty
graduates’ of support on offer to help
understand the content
words and keep pace.”

“In the MSc I enjoyed the “I’ve really enjoyed the

range of guest lectures MSc courses. I enjoyed go-
that were incorporated ing to lectures and learning
into the courses to give new things; the lecturers
insight into the work go- radiate enthusiasm about
ing on beyond the class- the subjects, which in turn
room.” gets people interested.”

“Before I even graduated I re-

ceived a job offer from a major
UK power company as a grad-
uate engineer. This year was
rewarding for me and unforget-
table. The programme and the
prestige of the university really
helped me in my job search”.
Rula Sha, MSc EPE 2018

One-year MSc in Electrical Power Engineeing: https://edin.ac/msc-epe

Two-year MSc in Advanced Power Engineering: https://edin.ac/msc-ape
Distributed Energy Resources and Smart Grids
Compulsory course: 33 Lecture hours10 Tutorial hours; 1 hour formative assessment

This course introduces existing and emerging power engineering technologies in the areas of distributed energy resources (DERs)
and the smart grid, from concept and basic theory to real-world applications. It covers distributed renewable generation including
wind, solar and hydro plants, various energy storage technologies as well as the impact of modern loads such as electric vehicles,
heat pumps and LED lighting on the power system. It introduces the concepts of load management, demand response and active
network management. Finally it gives a holistic overview of the constituent technologies of the smart grid, including power network
components, control, information and communications technologies and smart metering.

Dissertation
Electrical Power Engineering Dissertation
Compulsory course: 20 hours project supervision; 1 hour formative assessment

This course is the final project element of the MSc programme in Electrical Power Engineering. The students will elaborate on an
original piece of research on a topic in the wider area of electrical power engineering. They will then report on the work, its results
and a critical appraisal of these in their dissertation.
www.eng.ed.ac.uk/postgraduate
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