When i say renewable energy i mean like solar power, wind power, hydroelectric power . Is there a certain type of engineer who works in these areas? Where is a good place to go to school for this type of Engineering.
What kind of Engineer deals with coming up with new ways to use renewable energy?
March 28th, 2010 by My Efficient Planet Leave a reply »
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Renewable energy is a specialized area of engineering. There is no engineering degree that focuses solely on renewable energy. The closest ones that I can think of are Chemical Engineering and Mechanical Engineering. The principles of chemical reactions are important in the study of energy. But to design and construct the harnessing devices requires knowledge of mechanical engineering.
Every engineer is taught the basics of every engineering discipline so even Computer Engineers can qualify if they specialize beyond their undergraduate education.
If you live in the Philippines, the best school to go to is of course the University of the Philippines. Among private universities, De La Salle University – Manila is best, followed by MAPUA. Ateneo De Manila’s engineering is handled by the Physics department as I have been told so I would be hesitant towards that school. The University of Sto. Tomas seems to have strong engineering background as well, but I have no certainty about that. In choosing the right school, accreditation of the engineering department and not just the school accreditation is important.
Hard to think of an engineering discipline that would not be involved in alternate energy projects: electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, civil, structural, electronics… you name it, and there is a niche in there somewhere for it.
If you are interested in career ideas, look for information about consulting firms that provide engineering services for large civil engineering and architectural projects. They will have someone you can contact with questions. If you explain that you are a student doing research, someone in the know will usually take time to help you.
Good luck.
You don’t need to be an Electrical Engineer to be in the business of Solar Energy.
The Renewable Energy Industry needs people with knowledge and skills applicable to the industry. Electrical Engineers are not the only people employed in this industry. There are architects, surveyors, crane operators, meteorologists, and of course accountants and lawyers. If you are asking what college course to be part of the industry, that depends on your interest.
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