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The Panasonic Trust Fellowships
Ben Sutton – MSc Renewable Energy Systems Technology,
Loughborough University
 I
have always been interested in renewable energy and wanted to pursue this
further. I investigated the different study options and the Centre for
Renewable Energy Systems Technology at Loughborough University came highly
recommended. It also had the option to study part time through their
distance learning programme.
I have a full time job as a silicon verification
engineer but my employer kindly agreed for me to work part time allowing me
to study two days per week. The next issue was funding and here the
contribution towards my course fees through the Panasonic Trust Award scheme
was invaluable. The award meant I could afford to reduce my working hours
and gave me more time to study. With a busy family life it was invaluable
to have these allocated study days rather than trying to study in the
evenings and at weekends.
I completed the MSc over three years and graduated in
December 2009 achieving a Masters’ degree with Distinction. The course was
both interesting and challenging, mainly concentrating on the technical side
of all related technologies. The modules covered a broad range of subjects
from the fundamental physics of photovoltaics to wind turbine aerodynamics
and the chemistry of anaerobic digestion.
For the technically minded and those
interested in this rapidly expanding field, I would heartily
recommend the CREST course. The distance learning option
coupled with the financial support received from the Panasonic
Trust, gave me a lot of flexibility. This has allowed me to
juggle full time employment together with family life and study.
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