Energy Engineering
Study of how energy is produced, converted, distributed, and used, with a focus on creating efficient, sustainable, and future-ready energy systems.
Is this for you?
This degree could suit you if you:
Are interested in energy systems
Care about sustainability
Enjoy maths and physics
Want a future-focused career
Like problem-solving
Popular Career Fields
Energy & Utilities
Environmental Consultancy
Engineering & Construction
Government & Public Sector
Your Personality Might Be:
Sustainability-focused
Environmental Consultancy
Future-oriented
Mathematically strong
What is it?
What is Energy Engineering?
Energy Engineering focuses on the technologies and systems that power modern society. It brings together mechanical, electrical, chemical, and environmental engineering to understand how energy is generated, stored, and consumed, and how to make these processes cleaner, smarter, and more efficient.
You’ll study traditional energy systems such as power plants and combustion engines, as well as emerging technologies like renewable energy, hydrogen, battery storage, wind and solar systems, and smart electrical grids.
The degree equips you with the technical skills needed to design, analyse, and improve the systems that keep homes, cities, industries, and transport running.
Why Study Electrical Engineering?
Global demand for clean, reliable energy is increasing rapidly. Energy Engineers play a critical role in tackling climate change, designing sustainable power systems, and leading the transition to net-zero technologies.
If you enjoy problem-solving, maths, physics, and engineering challenges with real-world impact, Energy Engineering offers a highly rewarding path. You'll work with systems that shape the future, from renewable energy farms to electric vehicle charging networks and next-generation power technologies.
Course Summary
Study of how energy is produced, converted, distributed, and used, with a focus on creating efficient, sustainable, and future-ready energy systems.
What you'll study
Engineering mathematics and thermodynamics
Fluid mechanics and heat transfer
Power generation and energy conversion
Electrical power systems and smart grids
Renewable energy technologies (wind, solar, hydro, geothermal, biomass)
Energy storage and battery systems
Hydrogen and fuel cell technology
Combustion, engines, and alternative fuels
Energy efficiency, sustainability, and environmental impact
Engineering materials and manufacturing
Later in your course, you can usually specialise in:
Renewable and sustainable energy
Power plant engineering
Energy storage and battery technology
Hydrogen and low-carbon fuels
Smart grids and electrical networks
Energy modelling and simulation
Environmental and climate engineering
Some universities also offer an MEng as an integrated four-year option for deeper technical expertise and a pathway toward Chartered Engineer (CEng) status.
Skills You'll Gain
An Energy Engineering degree builds strong technical and professional skills, including:
Thermofluid analysis – understanding heat, fluids, and energy transport.
Power systems engineering – analysing electrical networks and smart grids.
Renewable energy design – creating solar, wind, hydro, or hybrid systems.
Energy modelling and simulation – using tools to predict performance.
Sustainability assessment – evaluating emissions, efficiency, and impact.
Pathways, Placements and Work Experience
CAREERS
Career Pathways
Energy Engineers are in high demand across industries such as:
Renewable energy (wind, solar, hydro, biomass)
Power generation and electricity networks
Energy storage and battery technology
Oil, gas, and alternative fuels
Environmental and sustainability engineering
Smart grid and digital energy systems
Transportation electrification and EV infrastructure
Engineering consultancy
Government, research, and energy policy
Work Experiences & Placements
Many universities offer:
Year-long industrial placements with energy companies
Summer internships in renewables, utilities, or engineering consultancies
Opportunities to work on industry-sponsored sustainability projects
Site visits to power stations, manufacturing facilities, or smart-grid labs
These experiences help you apply engineering knowledge in real-world energy environments.
Salary Profile
Coming soon
Qualifications, Personal Satement, What to do Next?
AM I ELIGIBLE?
Entry Requirements
A-levels or equivalent including Maths and Physics. Chemistry, Further Maths, or Geography are beneficial.
Personal Statement Tips
Show enthusiasm for sustainable energy, climate solutions, or engineering innovation.
Mention any relevant projects: electronics, renewable energy kits, coding, maths challenges, or physics investigations.
Reflect on problem-solving, teamwork, or analytical skills.
Highlight any hands-on work, engineering clubs, or technical courses.
What to do Next
Compare universities based on their renewable energy facilities, labs, and industry links.
Attend open days or online sessions to explore teaching spaces and meet staff.
Try online tutorials in energy modelling, electronics, or engineering maths.
Follow developments in clean energy, electric vehicles, hydrogen, and climate technology.
Wider Reading
Sustainable Energy – Without the Hot Air – David MacKay: A clear, data-driven look at real-world energy choices.
The Grid – Gretchen Bakke: How modern power networks work — and why they need to change.
Energy for Future Presidents – Richard A. Muller: A straightforward guide to global energy challenges.
Powering the Future – Robert B. Laughlin: A visionary look at energy technology in the coming decades.