Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around finding innovative thesis topics in renewable energy, particularly for an undergraduate thesis. Participants express challenges in selecting a suitable topic that meets their professor's requirements for complexity and the inclusion of prototypes.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory
- Debate/contested
- Homework-related
Main Points Raised
- One participant seeks suggestions for thesis topics in renewable energy after failing to get approval for common types like solar, wind, thermal, and biomass.
- Another participant clarifies that the thesis is for an undergraduate program and mentions the professor's demand for a complex topic that does not involve common renewable energy sources.
- Suggestions include exploring "Energy Conservation via the Smart Grid" as a potential topic, with a focus on energy conservation as a renewable energy source.
- A participant expresses interest in integrating Smart Grid concepts with renewable energy but struggles with the requirement for prototypes and the limited timeframe for research.
- Advice is given to explore the Department of Energy's website for current topics in renewable energy and to consult with university sustainability initiatives for potential thesis ideas.
- One participant mentions a geothermal energy project as an example of innovative technology in the renewable energy sector.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants generally agree on the need for innovative and complex topics in renewable energy, but there are multiple competing views on what constitutes an appropriate topic and how to meet the professor's requirements. The discussion remains unresolved regarding specific thesis topics.
Contextual Notes
Participants express uncertainty about the definitions of renewable energy sources and the feasibility of proposed topics within the constraints of time and resources. There are unresolved questions about the integration of Smart Grid technology with renewable energy prototypes.