EDUCATIONAL OBJECTIVES The course aims to provide students with an advanced understanding of the principles, technologies, and policies that drive the energy transition toward sustainable, decarbonized, and resilient models. Specifically, the course is designed to develop the following competencies: 1. Critical analysis of current energy systems: Understand the structure, dynamics, and challenges of conventional energy systems, with reference to fossil fuel dependence, environmental impacts, energy security, and inequalities in access. 2. Knowledge of sustainable energy technologies: Acquire skills related to the functioning, performance, and potential of technologies for the generation, storage, and intelligent management of energy from renewable sources (e.g., solar, wind, hydro, biomass, green hydrogen). 3. Understanding of decarbonization strategies: Evaluate pathways and scenarios for the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, including energy efficiency, electrification, carbon capture and storage, and integrated systemic approaches. 4. Interaction between energy, environment, economy, and society: Analyze the environmental, economic, social, and geopolitical implications of the energy transition, fostering an interdisciplinary and sustainability-oriented approach. 5. Technical-economic assessment and decision-making skills: Apply quantitative tools for cost-benefit analysis, multi-criteria evaluation, and the design of interventions at urban or territorial scale. 6. Knowledge of energy policy and regulatory frameworks: Understand the legislative, regulatory, and strategic context at national, European, and global levels (e.g., European Green Deal, Fit for 55, SDGs, Italian NECP). 7. Development of critical and systemic thinking: Promote a proactive and critical attitude toward the transformation of energy systems, capable of integrating technological innovation, social equity, and environmental resilience. EXPECTED LEARNING OUTCOMES Knowledge and understanding: • Acquisition of a solid foundation in energy systems and plant technologies for sustainability. • Understanding of energy transformation processes, decarbonization, and renewable integration. • Familiarity with methodologies for energy diagnosis, system sizing, and techno-economic evaluation. Applying knowledge and understanding: • Ability to conduct energy audits and design improvement interventions. • Competence in sizing technologies and systems based on quantitative methods and regulations. • Skills in carrying out economic and financial analyses, including the assessment of incentive schemes. Making judgements: • Ability to critically evaluate solutions and strategies in light of the energy and regulatory context. • Competence in planning sustainable interventions using an integrated (technical, environmental, organizational) approach. • Capability to make independent decisions on technologies and energy solutions. Communication skills: • Proficiency in preparing comprehensive technical reports and effectively summarizing project outcomes. • Effective use of advanced tools (e.g., spreadsheets, presentation software) for oral and written communication. • Persuasive presentation of design choices and results. Learning skills: • Readiness for continuous learning in a rapidly evolving field (regulations, technologies, financial tools). • Development of autonomy and flexibility in integrating new technical solutions. • Learning through exercises and case-study discussions, supported by a final oral examination.