Renewable Energy MSc



Gain the theoretical and practical skills to explore the growing field of renewable energy technologies

Overview

Renewable energy technologies have become an important part of energy production. Strong initiatives and investments from the public and private sectors have made this a rapidly growing field and created further career opportunities in the sector.

This is one of the few courses offered at Masters level which not only encompasses renewable energy technologies but also complements with the essential related elements of renewable energy finance and environmental law.

These elements touch on financial analytical tools, project structuring, finance and management in renewable energy, while the law element will consider legal framework impacting upon renewable energy provision.

Typical entry points to this course are in January and September. Please enquire for more information.

 
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Mode of Study:

Full-time

Duration:

1 year

Start date:

SepJan

Course details

The course will extend your skills into various renewable energy technologies such as wind, solar, hydro, biomass etc.

Study renewable energy capture, energy storage, energy audit and life-cycle analysis, as well as learning the concept of the system, design, development and applications.

The course is accredited by the Energy Institute UK. Combined with a suitable accredited undergraduate degree, the MSc degree would then satisfy the academic requirements of the UK Engineering Council for Chartered Engineer (CEng) status.

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    How you’ll be taught

    You’ll learn by a variety of teaching methods including lectures, tutorials and independent study.

    This is a full-time course and is split up into three trimesters. You can choose to start in either January or September.

    Duration:

    • September starts: 12 months
    • January starts: 18 months with a three-month break over the summer (after the first taught trimester)
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    Assessments

     Assessments will primarily be in the form of written coursework submissions and examinations. Other form of assessments are presentation, demonstration, class test and dissertation viva.
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    Facilities

    You will have access to modern laboratory equipped with relevant technical software for your studies such as Matlab and ERACS.

Modules

Modules that you will study* as part of this course

Distributed Generation Systems ( ELE11113 )

In this module you will learn about the challenges and advantages of Distributed Generation Systems. The module initially covers rotating generators, necessary to understand conventional generation. You will then learn about distribution Networks along with some technical issues such as voltage changes, fault levels and calculations, earthing, power quality, stability and protection. As part of this you will need to use software to model a power system which includes distributed generation. You will learn about power conversion technologies and finally examine multiple areas of Smart Grids. These range from Network Operations, Energy Management, Information & Control Interoperability and Electrical Energy Storage.

Further information

Energy Materials ( MEC11110 )

Materials in energy production and storage, such as: fuel cells, wind turbines, solar panels, offshore structures, biomass, nuclear catalytic materials, nanotechnology, processing techniques, heat transfer in materials and instrumentation. The role of materials engineering in the circular economy from cradle to grave.

Further information

MSc Project ( ENG11100 )

The student will learn about important elements of project management, such as planning, control, cost, problem solving skills, report writing and defend the outcome during a viva session. The project is normally completed during 13 weeks of full time research or part time equivalent, 26 weeks.

Further information

Renewable Energy Finance and Environmental Law ( BSV11122 )

You are expected to acquire basic knowledge and skill set in environmental engineering and renewable energy management to solve complex problems confronting the society. Much of this will be in two broad areas namely: 1. Renewable energy finance: Ecological/Environmental economics, concepts of sustainability, emissions calculations, energy and financial payback, accounting rate of return, Net Present Value (NPV), Internal Rate of Return (IRR), profit ratios, probability applications, sensitivity analysis, RE financial calculations, project finance practical applications, equity and debt finance, venture finance, mezzanine finance, leasing, risk management, securitisation, and energy management system (ISO 5001). 2. Environmental law: Introduction to environmental law, European community environmental law and policy, administration and enforcement of environmental law, private regulation of environmental pollution, protection of specific environments, water pollution, contaminated land, waste management, land ownership rights and effect of planning law.These topics will be spread over a 10 week period of lectures and tutorials; while you will be expected to submit a coursework at the end of the 6th week and 11th week while you will write a class test covering basic financial modelling tools at the 13th week.

Further information

Research Skills and Project Management ( MEC11117 )

This module aims to improve students' skills in two critical academic and professional areas: conducting comprehensive literature reviews and managing research projects.The first part of the module focuses on literature review techniques. Students will learn methods for identifying, evaluating, and synthesising scholarly sources to build a strong foundation for their research. Essential skills include searching and assessing various information sources, critically analysing and interpreting existing research, and identifying gaps in the literature. The module also teaches practical strategies for organising and writing a literature review that aligns with a specific research question or hypothesis.The second part of the module provides a comprehensive overview of research project management. It covers all project stages, from inception to completion, and equips students with essential skills in teamwork, information searching, and utilising various information sources. Additionally, students will learn project management principles, focusing on risk management, time management, and cost control.By the end of the module, students will be proficient in conducting thorough literature reviews and managing research projects effectively.

Further information

Solar Energy: Technology, Modelling and Analysis ( MEC11121 )

This module will help student to develop knowledge and skillset in the area of solar energy system. The module covers various aspects and through both lectures and practical sessions supports you in understanding and developing the relevant skillsets. This module explores the following key aspects of the topic:-Modelling and analysis of the solar geometry and solar irradiation data.Review of various existing and emerging solar technologies and their performance.Detailed design of electrical and thermal solar energy systems. Energy storage system design and analysis.An overview of energy management for renewable energy system.Economic and energetic analysis of solar-based energy system.

Further information

Sustainable Energy Technologies ( MEC11123 )

This module will review the field of sustainability. Firstly, we will conceptualise sustainability, its history and the challenges to sustainable development. Methods of estimating life cycle carbon emission and ecological impacts will be critical analysed. The process of risk assessments in the context of the renewable energy industry, will also be discussed.Next the module will consider the topic of energy consumption and usage, most notably in the heating of buildings and transportation (both of which represents the bulk of final energy consumption). This shall include estimating the energy consumption of buildings depending on climate conditions and the options for improving building performance and estimating of heat load, boiler requirements, etc. Transportation shall also consider the environmental impact of transportation as well as the design of urban areas, public transport, its benefits and limitations. Finally, we will review the application of renewable energy resources for the design of appropriate renewable energy systems; including autonomous off-grid systems, as well as the methodology and rationale for grid connection. Systems control and energy storage on both a micro and macro scale will be considered next. This shall include Economic and environmental impact of energy systems. Hydro electric systems design, including water turbine selection and Flow Duration Curve analysis for optimisation of energy yield will be presented. Wind energy design shall also be considered, including the site selection and estimation of performance.

Further information

* These are indicative only and reflect the course structure in the current academic year. Some changes may occur between now and the time that you study.

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Disclaimer

Study modules mentioned above are indicative only. Some changes may occur between now and the time that you study.

Full information is available in our disclaimer.

Entry requirements

What are the entry requirements for Renewable Energy?

The entry requirement for this course is a Bachelor (Honours) Degree at a 2:2 or above. We look for applicants to have a background in a relevant engineering field such as electrical, electronics, electrical & electronics, mechanical, automation, control, energy or renewable/sustainable energy in order to be eligible for the programme.

Other degrees in the relevant subject will be considered for this programme.

We may also consider lesser qualifications if you have sufficient professional work experience within the industry.

ATAS

Please note, nationals of particular countries who receive an offer for this course are required to apply for an ATAS certificate. More information about this can be found on the GOV.UK website.

The Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) is designed to provide additional security checks on students who study certain courses in Science and Engineering. The scheme is managed by the ATAS Team based at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO).

Can I get admission into Renewable Energy based on my working experience in this sector?

This course has academic entry requirements which are assessed alongside relevant work experience. Full details of any relevant work experience, including references should be submitted with your application and may be considered for entry where the minimum academic entry requirements are below those required.

Usually, unrelated work experience is not considered sufficient for entry without meeting the minimum academic entry requirements. Please contact us with your specific circumstances by submitting an enquiry form above and we will be happy to discuss your options.

Can I make an appointment with an advisor to discuss further about the admission process?

If you want to get more information on the admission process, please get in touch with the postgraduate admissions team by submitting an enquiry form above.

If your first language isn't English, you'll normally need to undertake an approved English language test and our minimum English language requirements will apply.

This may not apply if you have completed all your school qualifications in English, or your undergraduate degree was taught and examined in English (within two years of starting your postgraduate course). Check our country pages to find out if this applies to you.

We welcome applications from students studying a wide range of international qualifications.
Entry requirements by country

Please note that international students are unable to enrol onto the following courses:
  • BM Midwifery/MM Midwifery
  • All Graduate Apprenticeship courses.

See who can apply for more information on Graduate Apprenticeship courses.

We’re committed to admitting students who have the potential to succeed and benefit from our programmes of study. 

Our admissions policies will help you understand our admissions procedures, and how we use the information you provide us in your application to inform the decisions we make.

Undergraduate admissions policies
Postgraduate admissions policies

Fees & funding

The course fees you'll pay and the funding available to you will depend on a number of factors including your nationality, location, personal circumstances and the course you are studying. We also have a number of bursaries and scholarships available to our students.

Tuition fees
Students from 2024/25 2025/26
Scotland, England, Wales, Northern Ireland, and Republic of Ireland £7,280 £7,650
Overseas and EU £20,395 £21,430
Tuition fees are subject to an annual review and may increase from one year to the next. For more information on this and other tuition fee matters, please see our Fees and Funding links above.
The University offers a 20% discount on Postgraduate Taught Masters programmes to its alumni. The discount applies to all full-time, part-time and online programmes. The discount can only be applied to year one of a full-time Postgraduate degree, any additional years are exempt from the discount. For part time Postgraduate degrees the discount will apply to years one, two and three only and any additional years will be exempt from the discount. Please read our full T&C here
Please note that the tuition fees liable to be paid by EU nationals commencing their studies from 1 August 2021 will be the Overseas fee rate. The University offers a range of attractive Tuition Fee bursaries to students resident in specific countries. More information on these can be found here.


Please note:

The discount for Edinburgh Napier alumni can only be applied to year one of a full-time Postgraduate degree, any additional years are exempt from the discount.

For part time Postgraduate degrees the discount will apply to years one, two and three only and any additional years will be exempt from the discount.

Please read our full T&C here

Careers

What can you do with a MSc Renewable Energy degree?

Studying for an MSc in Renewable Energy at Edinburgh Napier University can offer numerous career benefits, especially in today's rapidly evolving energy sector. This degree has opened up a wide range of career opportunities across different sectors for our graduates, including:

  • Consultancies
  • Renewable energy industries
  • Renewable energy technology/design
  • Building services
  • Research & development

Renewable energy is a global industry, with opportunities available in almost every country around the world. This degree equips students with knowledge and skills that are applicable internationally, allowing for flexibility in career location and mobility.

The renewable energy sector is dynamic and constantly evolving, with ongoing research and development efforts aimed at improving technologies and finding new solutions. Studying for an MSc in Renewable Energy provides students with the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research and innovation, positioning them as leaders in the field.

Careers in renewable energy often offer competitive salaries, particularly as the demand for skilled professionals continues to rise. Additionally, as renewable energy technologies become more widespread and efficient, the economic viability of renewable energy projects increases, leading to greater job security and earning potential for professionals in the field.

What does an Renewable Energy Consultant do?

As a Renewable Energy Consultant, you will be mostly conducting research on renewable energy technologies, market trends, policies, regulations, and best practices. Analyzing data related to energy consumption, production, and distribution will also be a part of your daily responsibilities. You will be also performing feasibility studies to assess the viability of renewable energy projects. This includes evaluating factors such as resource availability, technical feasibility, economic viability, and environmental impacts.

You will be a crucial part of renewable energy projects from conception to completion. This may involve coordinating with various stakeholders, overseeing project timelines and budgets, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.  You have to provide expert advice and recommendations on renewable energy solutions tailored to meet client objectives.

Overall, you will play a crucial role in helping clients navigate the complex landscape of renewable energy, providing expertise, guidance, and support to facilitate the successful development and implementation of renewable energy projects.

Student holding a water sample on Wildlife Biology and Conservation field trip