Community Energy Development (Certificate, L6, 20 ECTS)
Program Overview
The Community Energy Development Certificate program equips learners with the knowledge and skills to identify and develop sustainable energy investment opportunities within their communities. Through blended learning, the program covers sustainable energy technologies, funding opportunities, and project development techniques. Upon completion, students will receive a Certificate in Community Energy Development, enabling them to contribute to the development of sustainable energy projects and support community energy goals.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Community Energy Development Certificate program aims to equip learners with the knowledge and skills necessary to identify and develop sustainable energy investment opportunities within their communities. The program focuses on:
- Sustainable Energy Technologies/Solutions: Understanding various sustainable energy technologies and their applications.
- Funding Opportunities: Identifying relevant funding sources for sustainable energy projects.
- Project Development Techniques: Mastering the skills needed to plan, manage, and execute sustainable energy projects. The program is designed for individuals from both urban and rural communities who are interested in:
- Developing Sustainable Energy Projects: Gaining the expertise to initiate and implement sustainable energy projects.
- Supporting Community Energy Development: Providing assistance to communities in their efforts to develop sustainable energy projects.
Outline:
Program Structure:
- Duration: 24 weeks, delivered over two semesters.
- Delivery Mode: Blended learning, combining online sessions and on-site visits.
- Schedule: Tuesdays, 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM (fortnightly), with five on-site visits per semester.
- Technology Requirement: All applicants must have access to a laptop for the program.
Modules:
Semester 1:
- Introduction to Community Sustainable Energy (10 Credits):
- Energy systems
- Energy principles
- Energy efficiency principles
- Renewable energy systems
Semester 2:
- Community Sustainable Energy Project Development (10 Credits):
- Policy and legislation
- Planning and consultation
- Project Finance and Organisation
- Project Management
- Stakeholder Engagement and Mobilisation
Assessment:
- Assessment Methods:
- Case studies
- Online Quizzes
- Project reports
- Final project
Other:
- Time Commitment: Each 5 credits typically equates to approximately 100 Total Learning Hours, including both in-class and out-of-class work.
- Qualification: Upon successful completion, students will receive a Certificate in Community Energy Development (Special Purpose Award, Level 6, 20 ECTS).
- HCI Pillar 3 Funding: Applicants must meet the eligibility criteria for HCI Pillar 3 funding, as outlined by the HEA.
- English Language Requirement: Applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate proficiency in English.
Entry Requirements:
- Leaving Certificate: A minimum of 5 Passes in Leaving Certificate subjects, including Mathematics and English/Irish.
- Applicants over 23: Applicants who do not meet the Leaving Certificate requirements but are aged 23 and over will be considered for entry based on an assessment and, if appropriate, an interview.
- Equivalence: Equivalence may be demonstrated by an appropriate qualification and significant relevant experience.
- Recognised Prior Learning (RPL): Applicants who do not hold the required qualifications can apply for RPL assessment. They must select "YES" on the online application form and will receive further instructions on RPL.
- HCI Pillar 3 Funding: Applicants must meet the eligibility criteria for the HCI Pillar 3 funding, as set out by the HEA. Details can be found HERE.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
- English as a Second Language: Applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate English proficiency. For undergraduate courses, a minimum score of 5.5 in the IELTS exam is required. For postgraduate courses, a minimum score of 6.0 is required. It is the applicant's responsibility to ensure their English proficiency meets these requirements.