This course offers a comprehensive introduction to the structure and function of the U.S. electricity systems. Students will explore how electricity is generated, transmitted, and distributed - delving into both traditional and emerging technologies, including fossil fuels, nuclear, renewables, and storage. Through case studies and real-world examples, the course examines how the grid is operated and maintained, with a focus on system reliability, resiliency, load balancing, and efforts to modernize aging infrastructure.
 
Students will gain a clear understanding of key players and institutions that govern the electricity sector, including utilities, regulators, and regional transmission organizations (RTOs) and independent system operators (ISOs). Special attention will be paid to the growing role of distributed energy resources (DERs) and the challenges and opportunities they present for grid evolution. Guest speakers or case studies will bring current grid modernization efforts to life, helping students connect foundational knowledge with today's fast-changing energy landscape.
 
The course is foundational to the Certificate in Electricity Industry Essentials: Project Development and Finance Pathways. Therefore, students are required to complete this course first.
 
COURSE TOPICS:

• Intro to Energy Systems & the Utility Business Models
• Electricity Generation Technologies: Carbon-based Fuels, Nuclear, Renewables, and Storage and Emissions Profiles of Various Regions and Countries
• Transmission and Distribution Infrastructure
• Grid Operations: Balancing Supply
• Regional Transmission Organizations (RTOs) & Independent System Operators (ISOs)
• Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) and the Evolving Grid
• Resilience and Reliability, and Emerging Energy trends
• Grid Modernization Efforts

Continuing Education Units (CEU) : 2

You'll walk away with

• An understanding of how electricity is generated, transmitted, and distributed.
• The ability to identify key players and institutions in the U.S. electricity sector.
• The skills to analyze how system reliability, load balancing, and grid modernization efforts shape development.