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Renewable energy engineers require an engineering science degree program, with specific courses in renewable energy technology. Areas of focus include solar, wind, geothermal, hydroelectric, tidal, and biofuel sources. Sustainable engineering certificate programs are also available, and interdisciplinary studies are recommended. LEED certification is important for analyzing a building’s impact on ecosystems.
Renewable energy engineers apply engineering solutions to generate energy from renewable sources. If you want to become a renewable energy engineer, you will almost certainly need to complete an engineering science degree program. Engineering programs that include specific courses in renewable energy technology are increasing in number over time as interest in sustainable energy generation grows. Areas of focus in renewable energy engineering include power generation from solar, wind, geothermal, hydroelectric, tidal and biofuel sources. A degree program specifically geared toward becoming a renewable energy engineer is also an option, as many universities offer such programs.
The field of engineering already offers training within the profession aimed at specific engineering specialties. This includes but is not limited to mechanical, thermodynamic, electrical or hydraulic engineering. You should consider a preparation path that allows you to select courses in your area of interest. For example, if you want to become a renewable energy engineer with a focus on geothermal engineering or solar energy, a course of study in thermodynamics and thermal radiation would be a good choice. For wind power, a graduate engineer may have chosen to prepare by focusing on a course of study in aerodynamic engineering or composite material engineering.
If you already have an engineering degree and want to become a renewable energy engineer, sustainable engineering certificate programs are available through professional engineering associations and some colleges and universities. Power generation systems are dynamic and interact with the environment and society in countless ways. You may find that an interdisciplinary aspect of your studies will better prepare you to become a renewable energy engineer.
Programs in energy sustainability are also offered in shorter versions through certificate programs. If you major in engineering or earn a certificate through a program, some training in sustainable practices, including energy conservation, will likely be included in your course of study to become a renewable energy engineer. Measures that save energy, regardless of whether or not they were produced by renewable sources, are also part of renewable energy strategies.
An engineering firm that modernizes or renovates a building or power plant can conduct an energy audit, and LEED certification can form part of that audit. Recognized internationally, LEED certification is something a renewable energy engineer should understand and implement. It is a rating system that measures a building’s impact on ecosystems, as well as analyzing what type of materials were used and what level of efficiency in energy and water use was achieved. LEED is an acronym for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design.
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