Energy production and consumption contribute to human-driven climate change, and the policies that influence a region's procurement and use of energy are increasingly important to our future. In this course, students will learn about the physics of energy in the context of engineering and modeling of energy systems on a variety of scales. As energy markets shift toward low-carbon, renewable sources, students are invited to explore this complex transition through lenses of environmental justice, technology, politics, and economics, working in teams to address these issues more deeply.

Course Requirements:

The course grade is based on homework, two midterm exams, and a final written report and presentation. Student progress is tracked by weekly homework assignments based on the reading and lectures. Students prepare written energy plans distributed to the class prior to presentation. Presentations are graded for meeting pre-established criteria and students may receive extra credit by providing written critique of each other's plans.

Intended Audience:

While PHYSICS 210 requires no formal prerequisites, some knowledge of high school physics and appreciation for algebra and statistics is recommended. A willingness to engage with a variety of sources and materials is encouraged. This course is a prerequisite for declaring the Energy Science and Policy Minor within the Program in the Environment.