Contents

UNIT I: INTRODUCTION TO ENERGY ENGINEERING (4 HRS) ..................................... 3

1. 1. Context..................................................................................................................... 4
1.1.1. Scope of Energy Engineering for civil engineers ................................................ 4
1.1.2. World Energy Status ............................................................................................ 4
1.1.3. Challenges for Energy Engineering ..................................................................... 5
1.1.4. Opportunities for Energy Engineering ................................................................. 6
1.1.5. Energy Scenario in Nepal .................................................................................... 6
1.1.6. Environmental Aspects of Energy ....................................................................... 8
1. 2. Energy Sustainability ............................................................................................... 8
1.2.1. Introduction to Sustainable Energy ...................................................................... 8
1.2.2. Renewable Energy Sources.................................................................................. 9
1.2.3. Energy Storage and Security ................................................................................ 9
1. 3. Emerging Technologies ......................................................................................... 10
1.3.1. Introduction to Hydrogen Fuel Cells ................................................................. 10
1.3.2. Types of Hydrogen Fuel Cells ........................................................................... 10
1.3.3. Advantages and Disadvantages of Hydrogen Fuel Cells ................................... 12
1.3.4. Green Hydrogen ................................................................................................. 12

Introduction to Energy Engineering MEC 114 P. Timilsina

UNIT I: INTRODUCTION TO ENERGY ENGINEERING (4 HRS)
Objective: Describe the concept of energy sources and emerging technologies.

What is energy?
Energy is defined as the ability to do work. Energy exists in many forms, including mechanical,
electrical, thermal, chemical, and nuclear. These different forms of energy can be converted
from one form to another through various energy conversion processes.
What is Energy Engineering?
Energy engineering is a branch of engineering that deals with the production, conversion, and
efficient use of energy. The main goal of energy engineering is to ensure that energy is
produced, distributed, and utilized efficiently, sustainably, and with minimal impact on the
environment.
Role of Energy Engineering in Addressing Global Energy Challenges
Energy engineering plays a critical role in addressing global energy challenges. The world is
currently facing a number of energy-related challenges, such as rising energy demand, limited
fossil fuel resources, and the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Energy engineering
helps address these challenges in several ways.
a. Improvement in Energy Efficiency
Energy engineering focuses on improving energy efficiency, which reduces energy
consumption and costs. By designing and implementing more efficient energy systems and
technologies, energy engineers can help reduce the need for additional energy generation and
reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
b. Development and Utilization of Renewable and Sustainable Energy Sources
Energy engineering is helpful in developing and utilizing renewable and sustainable sources of
energy, such as solar, wind, hydro, and geothermal energy. These sources of energy have the
potential to significantly reduce our dependence on fossil fuels and help address climate
change.
c. Addressing of Environmental Impacts
Energy engineering is crucial in addressing environmental challenges associated with energy
production and consumption. For example, energy engineers can design and implement
technologies to reduce air and water pollution associated with fossil fuel extraction and power
generation.
d. Improvement of Energy Security
Finally, energy engineering is an important tool in improving energy security and reducing
energy poverty. By developing efficient and sustainable energy systems, energy engineers can
help ensure that energy is accessible and affordable to all, particularly in developing countries.

Introduction to Energy Engineering MEC 114 P. Timilsina

1. 1. Context

1.1.1. Scope of Energy Engineering for civil engineers

Civil engineers play a very important role in the energy industry, as they are responsible for
designing and constructing energy-related infrastructure such as power plants, distribution
networks, and energy-efficient buildings.
a. Energy efficiency in buildings:
Buildings are one of the largest energy consumers in the world. Civil engineers can design and
construct energy-efficient buildings that use less energy for heating, cooling, and lighting. This
not only reduces energy costs but also helps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
b. Renewable energy sources:
Civil engineers can design and construct infrastructures that use renewable energy sources,
such as solar, wind, and hydro. This reduces the reliance on fossil fuels and promotes
sustainability.
c. Transportation:
Civil engineers can design and construct transportation systems that use less energy, such as
public transportation, bike lanes, and pedestrian-friendly streets. This can reduce the amount
of energy consumed by transportation and improve air quality.
d. Energy storage:
Civil engineers can design and construct energy storage systems, such as batteries and pumped
hydro, which can help to balance the supply and demand of energy in the grid.
e. Environmental impact:
Civil engineers can assess the environmental impact of various energy systems and
infrastructures and suggest measures to minimize their impact on the environment. This can
help to promote sustainable development and reduce the negative impact of human activities
on the environment.

1.1.2. World Energy Status

Energy is a crucial resource that drives the world economies, industries, and daily lives of all
people in the world. The world energy status can be discussed in the following points:

a. Global Energy Consumption:

Global energy consumption has increased steadily over the past few decades, mainly because
of population growth and economic development. The largest energy-consuming countries are
China, the United States, and India, accounting for over half of the world’s total energy
consumption. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), Energy consumption
worldwide grew by 2.3% in 2018, nearly twice the average rate of growth since 2010.

Introduction to Energy Engineering MEC 114 P. Timilsina

b. Global Energy Production:
World energy production amounted to 617 EJ (1EJ = 1018 joules) in 2019 – a 2% increase from
2018. Fossil fuels accounted for more than 81% of production in 2019, as in the previous years.
Apart from fossil fuels, the majority of the world’s energy production comes from coal, oil,
and natural gas.
c. Energy-Related Emissions:
The energy sector is a major contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions, which are a
primary driver of climate change. The burning of fossil fuels for energy is the largest
contributor to these emissions. Global CO2 emissions from energy use reached a record high
in 2019, with China being the largest emitter, followed by the United States and European
Union. Also, the transportation sector generates the largest share of global greenhouse
emissions.
d. Energy Security:
Energy Security can be defined as the uninterrupted availability of energy in sufficient
quantities and at affordable rates. However, in recent times, geopolitical tensions (like military
wars between countries) and energy supply disruptions have been threatening energy security,
particularly for countries heavily reliant on energy imports.
e. Energy Transition:
Given the urgent need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate the impacts of climate
change, the world is undergoing an energy transition towards cleaner and more sustainable
energy systems. In terms of renewable energy, hydropower, and wind power are currently the
largest sources of renewable energy in the world followed by solar power and biofuels.

1.1.3. Challenges for Energy Engineering

Energy engineering faces several challenges that require engineers to find new and innovative
ways to meet demands.
a. Non-renewable resources:
The depletion of non-renewable resources such as oil and gas is a significant challenge for
energy engineering, as it limits the conventional availability of traditional energy sources.
b. Climate Change:
The impact of greenhouse gas emissions on the environment is a serious concern that requires
energy engineers to develop solutions for reducing emissions from the energy sector.
c. Energy Access:
Many people around the world do not have access to reliable and affordable energy, mostly in
underdeveloped and developing countries. Energy engineering must address this challenge for
sustainability.
d. Energy Storage:

Introduction to Energy Engineering MEC 114 P. Timilsina

As the use of renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power grows, there is a need
for effective energy storage solutions to ensure a reliable energy supply.
e. Infrastructure Development:
Developing the necessary infrastructure to support new and emerging technologies can be an
important and significant challenge for energy engineering.

1.1.4. Opportunities for Energy Engineering

The transition to a more sustainable and low-carbon energy system presents significant
opportunities for energy engineering.
a. Renewable energy:
The growing demand for renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, and hydropower
presents significant opportunities for energy engineering to develop new and innovative
solutions for meeting energy demands sustainably.
b. Energy Efficiency:
Improving energy efficiency in buildings, transportation, and industry can significantly reduce
energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, creating opportunities for energy engineers
to develop new technologies and strategies for achieving greater efficiency.
c. Energy Storage:
As the use of renewable energy sources grows, there is a need for effective energy storage
solutions to ensure a reliable energy supply. This presents opportunities for energy engineering
to develop new technologies and improve existing ones.
d. Sustainable Transportation:
The development of sustainable transportation systems, including electric vehicles and
alternative fuels, presents opportunities for energy engineers to develop new technologies and
infrastructure to support these systems.
e. Energy Storage:
Providing access to reliable and affordable energy to people around the world presents
opportunities for energy engineering to develop new and innovative solutions, particularly in
developing countries where energy access is limited.

1.1.5. Energy Scenario in Nepal

Nepal faces a significant challenge in meeting its energy needs, with limited access to modern
energy sources and heavy reliance on traditional biomass.

Introduction to Energy Engineering MEC 114 P. Timilsina

 Figure 1. Energy Consumption by fuel types in 2021
a. Type of Energy Resources:
Nepal’s energy mix is dominated by traditional biomass, such as firewood and agricultural
waste. Nepal has significant hydropower potential, with an estimated capacity of 83 GW
(Economically viable around 42 GW). However, only a small fraction has been developed.
Nepal also has significant potential for renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and
biomass. This will help reduce reliance on traditional biomass and promote sustainable
development.
b. Energy Consumption Pattern:
The most energy consumption in Nepal is from the residential sector, followed by industry and
transport. However, residential energy consumption is decreasing in recent years (89% in 2009
to 63% in 2021) mainly due to growth in economic activities, the use of modern technologies,
and energy efficiency improvement. The effect of growing economic activities is seen mainly
in the industrial, commercial, transport, and agriculture sectors.

Figure 2. Energy Consumption by sectors in 2021

Introduction to Energy Engineering MEC 114 P. Timilsina

1.1.6. Environmental Aspects of Energy
Both the production and consumption of energy have significant environmental impacts.
a. Climate Change:
The burning of fossil fuels for energy is a major contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions,
which are the primary driver of climate change. Climate change can lead to rising sea levels,
extreme weather events, and impacts on human health, biodiversity, and ecosystems.
b. Air Quality:
The use of fossil fuels and biomass for energy can release pollutants into the air, such as
particulate matter, nitrogen oxides, and sulfur dioxide, which can have serious impacts on
human health, including respiratory problems, heart disease, and lung cancer.
c. Water Quality:
The production of energy can also have significant impacts on water quality. For example, the
extraction and use of fossil fuels can contaminate groundwater and surface water with
chemicals and pollutants.
d. Land Use:
The development of energy infrastructure, such as oil and gas wells, pipelines, and transmission
lines, can also have impacts on land use, including habitat destruction, fragmentation, and
degradation.
e. Sustainable Energy:
The transition to cleaner and more sustainable energy sources, such as renewable energy and
energy efficiency measures, is critical for reducing the environmental impacts of energy
production and consumption. This includes increasing the use of solar, wind, hydropower, and
other renewable sources of energy, as well as improving energy efficiency in buildings,
transportation, and industry.

1. 2. Energy Sustainability

1.2.1. Introduction to Sustainable Energy

Energy is sustainable if it “meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of
future generations to meet their own needs.” Sustainable energy sources and practices are
environmentally friendly, socially responsible, and economically viable over the long term.
Different features of sustainable energy are:
a. Renewable and abundant: Sustainable energy sources are naturally replenished, and are
abundant.
b. Low Carbon Emissions: Sustainable energy systems have minimal greenhouse gas
emissions, contributing to climate change mitigation.

Introduction to Energy Engineering MEC 114 P. Timilsina

c. Energy Efficiency: Sustainable energy emphasizes energy efficiency by reducing energy
waste and minimizing energy consumption.
d. Environmental Compatibility: Sustainable energy sources have a lower environmental
impact compared to conventional energy sources.
e. Long-term viability: Sustainable energy is designed to meet present needs without
compromising the ability of future generations to meet their energy needs.
f. Local and decentralized: Sustainable energy systems often promote local and
decentralized energy production and distribution.
1.2.2. Renewable Energy Sources
Renewable energy refers to energy derived from sources that are naturally replenished and can
be used without depleting finite resources. The different types of renewable energy sources are:
a. Solar Energy: Harnessing the power of sunlight through photovoltaic (PV) panels.
b. Wind Energy: Utilizing wind turbines to convert the kinetic energy of wind into electrical
energy.
c. Hydropower: Generating electricity by harnessing the gravitational force of flowing or
falling water.
d. Biomass: Utilizing organic materials to produce energy through processes like combustion
and anaerobic digestion.
e. Geothermal Energy: Tapping into the Earth’s internal heat by utilizing geothermal power
plants.
f. Ocean Energy: Harnessing the energy from tides, waves, and thermal gradients in the
ocean.
1.2.3. Energy Storage and Security
Energy Storage is the capture of energy produced at one time for use at a later time to reduce
the imbalances between energy demand and energy production. Different types of energy
storage are:
a. Batteries: Rechargeable batteries, such as lithium-ion batteries.
b. Pumped Hydro Storage: Water pumped to a higher elevation during times of low demand
and released during peak demand.
c. Thermal Energy Storage: Heat or cold stored and later used for heating, cooling, or power
generation.
d. Compressed Air Energy Storage: Air compressed and stored, later used to drive turbines,
and generate electricity when needed.
e. Flywheel Energy Storage: Rotating flywheels store energy kinetically.
Energy Security is defined as the uninterrupted availability of energy sources at an affordable
price. For example, Norway is 96% self-reliant on energy by exploiting its offshore oil and gas
fields and using hydroelectric power. It even has surplus energy, which it exports to other
countries.
The factors affecting energy security are:
a. Diverse Energy Sources: Avoiding over-reliance on a single energy source.
b. Domestic Energy Production: Increasing domestic energy production.
c. Energy Efficiency: Decreasing waste and minimizing consumption.

Introduction to Energy Engineering MEC 114 P. Timilsina

d. Energy Infrastructure: Developing infrastructure for production, transmission, and
distribution.
e. Emergency Preparedness: Adequate emergency response plans and stockpiling strategic
energy reserves.

1. 3. Emerging Technologies

1.3.1. Introduction to Hydrogen Fuel Cells

Hydrogen fuel cells are devices that convert chemical energy stored in hydrogen into electrical
energy through an electrochemical process. They offer a clean and efficient alternative to
conventional technologies, resulting in lower emissions.

Figure 3. Hydrogen Fuel Cell Schematic (AFC)

1.3.2. Types of Hydrogen Fuel Cells
a. Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFC): These fuel cells use a solid polymer
membrane as an electrolyte and operate at low temperatures, making them suitable for
transportation applications.

Introduction to Energy Engineering MEC 114 P. Timilsina

 Figure 4. Hydrogen Fuel Cell Schematic (PEMFC)

b. Alkaline Fuel Cells (AFC): These fuel cells use alkaline electrolyte, typically potassium
hydroxide (KOH), and are known for their high efficiency but are limited to specific
applications due to their sensitivity to CO2 and impurities.
c. Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFC): These fuel cells operate at high temperatures and use a
solid ceramic electrolyte, allowing them to utilize a variety of fuels, including hydrogen
and hydrocarbon-based fuels.

Figure 5. Hydrogen Fuel Cell Schematic (SOFC)

Introduction to Energy Engineering MEC 114 P. Timilsina

1.3.3. Advantages and Disadvantages of Hydrogen Fuel Cells
The advantages of Hydrogen Fuel Cells are:
a. High energy efficiency: Fuel cells have higher efficiency than traditional combustion
engines, leading to reduced fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.
b. Zero emissions: Hydrogen fuel cells produce only water vapor as a byproduct, making them
environmentally friendly.
c. Versatile applications: Fuel cells can be used in various sectors, including transportation,
stationary power generation, and portable devices.
d. Long lifespan: Hydrogen fuel cells have a longer lifespan compared to traditional batteries,
making them suitable for continuous and durable power supply.
e. Quiet operation: Fuel cells operate silently, offering a noise-free alternative to combustion
engines in applications where noise reduction is essential.
The limitations or disadvantages of Hydrogen Fuel Cells are:
a. Cost and infrastructure: The high cost of fuel cell systems and the lack of a widespread
hydrogen infrastructure pose challenges to their adoption.
b. Hydrogen production: The production of hydrogen for fuel cells often relies on fossil fuels,
resulting in carbon emissions unless produced from renewable sources.
c. Fuel availability: The availability of hydrogen fueling stations is limited, making it
challenging for the widespread adoption of hydrogen-powered vehicles.
d. Complexity: Fuel cell systems require sophisticated control and monitoring mechanisms,
adding complexity to their integration and maintenance.
e. Safety concerns: Hydrogen is highly flammable, requiring stringent safety measures in
storage, handling, and transportation.

1.3.4. Green Hydrogen

Green hydrogen refers to hydrogen produced using renewable energy sources, such as solar or
wind power, through a process called electrolysis.
By utilizing renewable electricity to split water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen, green
hydrogen production avoids carbon emissions associated with conventional hydrogen
production methods. Green hydrogen has the potential to decarbonize various sectors,
including transportation, industry, and energy storage, contributing to a more sustainable
energy future.

Introduction to Energy Engineering MEC 114 P. Timilsina