Code
ENGR3002
Credits
25
Graduate Attributes
Introduction
The unit introduces students to the scientific and engineering foundations of various energy storage forms, including electrochemical (e.g., Li-ion, Na-ion batteries), chemical (e.g., hydrogen, solar fuels, chemical looping), thermal (sensible, latent, thermochemical), mechanical (pumped hydro, underground hydrogen storage, compressed air energy storage, flywheels), and emerging thermomechanical systems. Students engage with the operational mechanisms, performance metrics, efficiency considerations, and material constraints of these technologies, enabling critical evaluation of their suitability across different applications and scales. A core component of the unit is the integration of energy storage within complex energy systems, including electricity grids, gas networks, microgrids, and hybrid renewable energy systems. Students examine how storage enhances grid stability, enables high penetration of variable renewable sources such as solar and wind, and supports the strategic transition toward a decarbonized, hydrogen-based energy economy. Case studies and technical analysis of large-scale solutions, such as underground hydrogen storage and utility-scale CAES, foster systems thinking and engineering judgment in the context of national and global energy transitions. Through project-based learning and technical assessments, students develop the ability to model, analyse, and propose innovative storage solutions that meet technical, environmental, and economic criteria. The unit emphasizes sustainable engineering practices, safety, lifecycle considerations, and regulatory frameworks, aligning with EA’s emphasis on responsible and ethical engineering practice. By integrating fundamental science with practical engineering design and systems-level analysis, this unit equips future professional engineers with the competencies required to contribute effectively to the evolving energy landscape, supporting Australia’s and the world’s clean energy goals in a technically robust and socially responsible manner.
Lecture
1 x 2 Hours Weekly
Workshop
1 x 2 Hours Weekly
Unit Learning Outcomes
- 1 describe the scientific principles of energy storage forms and systems, GC1, GC3, GC4, GC6
- 2 articulate energy storage systems into power transmission system and energy transport system, GC1, GC3, GC4, GC5, GC6
- 3 calculate the optimal solutions of energy storage in power systems and energy transport systems, GC1, GC2, GC3, GC6
- 4 evaluate the model that integrates the energy storage system into a power system, GC1, GC3, GC6
- 5 decide the optimal energy storage solutions based on sustainability, integration and indigenous perspectives, GC1, GC2, GC4, GC5, GC6
Course Learning Outcomes
- 1 Demonstrate a conceptual understanding of fundamental science, mathematics, data analytics, information science, and computing underpinning the broad field of engineering
- 2 Solve complex energy engineering problems of industrial and societal significance through the application of discipline-specific and integrated bodies of knowledge, design and sustainability principles
- 3 Make decisions related to the design and implementation of solutions to engineering problems in a safe, ethical, and climate-responsible manner adhering to legal and professional standards and through respectful partnerships with local First Peoples and other diverse cultures as globally responsible citizens
Assessment Breakdown
Recent Unit Changes & Response to Student Feedback
Students are encouraged to provide feedback through student surveys (such as Insight and the annual Student Experience Survey) and interactions with teaching staff. Listed below are some recent changes to the unit as a result of student feedback. This unit has not been offered in 2025 or in previous years; consequently, no student feedback is available for reporting.