Electric Industry Operations and Markets Course Syllabus
Full curriculum breakdown — modules, lessons, estimated time, and outcomes.
Overview (80-120 words) describing structure and time commitment.
Module 1: Introduction to Electric Industry Operations
Estimated time: 7 hours
- Understand what electricity is, including charge, current, voltage, resistance, power, and energy
- Learn about power plants, transformers, transmission lines, and distribution systems
- Explore how electricity is generated, transmitted, and distributed to end-users
- Understand how electricity consumption instantly feeds back on generation and transmission
Module 2: Electricity Market Structures
Estimated time: 7 hours
- Examine different types of electric markets and how they operate
- Understand how supply and demand are balanced in real time
- Identify key market participants and their roles in electricity dispatch
- Analyze the function of grid operators and independent system operators
Module 3: Electric Pricing and Cost Structures
Estimated time: 7 hours
- Learn about the various costs involved in electricity generation, transmission, and distribution
- Explore pricing mechanisms used in electric markets
- Understand how electricity prices are determined and vary over time
Module 4: Regulatory Policies and Compliance
Estimated time: 7 hours
- Understand why the electric industry is regulated
- Learn how regulations shape utility operations and market behavior
- Explore government policies and compliance requirements for electric utilities
Module 5: Capstone Project
Estimated time: 10 hours
- Assess real-world electricity generation and distribution systems
- Evaluate electricity pricing structures using course concepts
- Submit a peer-reviewed project demonstrating integrated understanding of industry operations and markets
Prerequisites
- Basic understanding of high school-level physics
- Familiarity with fundamental mathematical concepts
- No prior experience in electrical engineering or energy policy required
What You'll Be Able to Do After
- Explain how electricity systems operate from generation to consumption
- Analyze the structure and function of electric markets
- Interpret electricity pricing models and cost drivers
- Understand the role of regulation in shaping industry practices
- Apply foundational knowledge to careers in energy analysis, utility planning, or regulatory affairs