If you have questions about this program, email the
program leader listed below.
Solar Systems in Spain
Program Details
The arrangements for the travel, housing, meals, excursions and course content of
this program have been made by the leader. Questions about this program can only be
answered by the program leader listed below.
|
| Program Type |
Departmental |
| Program Location |
Grenada, Pamplona, Seville, Spain
|
| Course # |
SA 10522
|
| Duration |
Summer
|
| Upcoming Program Dates |
| Summer 2027 |
05/16/27 to 05/30/27
|
Please Note: Programs may be altered or adapted with little notice
Program Description
Spain receives among the highest solar irradiation in Europe and is a global leader in the development of solar energy systems. The abundance of solar energy affects the culture of Spain, evident, for example, in the hours people work (i.e., taking siesta during peak sun) and the architecture of buildings to reflect solar radiation. Spain has also experienced drought and water scarcity; as such the Spanish government has invested signifcantly in development of renewable energy solutions and natural resources preservation. In 2007, the world’s first commercial solar power tower, Planta Solar 10, shown above, went online near Seville. Spain continues to lead development of next-generation solar technologies: Platforma Solar de Almería, on the Mediterranean coast in southern Spain, is the largest testing and research center for concentrating solar technologies in Europe.
During this two-week study abroad program, students will learn the principles of solar energy systems in a classroom setting, visit commercial solar power plants to see how such technologies are implemented, and tour research facilities where scientists and engineers are trying to improve existing technologies and develop new ones. In addition, students will be immersed in the Spanish culture and explore the natural beauty that clean energy leaders aim to preserve.
Week 1 takes place in southern Spain. Students will attend class during the morning, then participate in cultural activities or visit tourist sites in the afternoons and evenings. Students will visit the commercial concentrating solar power facilities near Seville, as well as the research center near Almería.
Week 2 takes place in northern Spain, where students will visit the National Renewable Energy Centre of Spain, experience the differences between Spain’s regional cultures, and tour national parks in the foothills of the Pyrenees Mountains.
Academic Credit
Earn 3 credits for ME 497.
All students must check with their academic advisors to see how this can be used in their plans of study.
Eligibility
Open to Juniors and rising Seniors in Engineering. Prerequisites: Thermodynamics I and II
Program Cost
Students pursuing program participation accept financial responsibility. Purdue will take measures to mitigate financial risks, although will not be liable for loss.
Estimated cost is $5,500: This includes hotels, breakfast daily, Welcome and Farewell dinners, all ground transportation in country, all activities and excursions on the itinerary with entrance fees, Academic credit, and international health insurance.
Additional Costs: Flights, passport, some meals, personal excursions, and personal spending money.
Application Deadline
Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until the program is full. 20 spots available.
Financial Aid
Purdue University financial aid may be applied to the costs of studying abroad. Students interested in receiving financial aid should
NOTE: Recipients of certain tuition remission and scholarship programs should pay careful attention to the regulations for using those benefits for study abroad. Ask your financial aid advisor about any limitations.
Click here for a list of scholarships and grants available to assist with the costs of studying overseas.
