engineering

This version of the document would, in my opinion, result in the following comments in the review. Areas for Consideration Brief Comments/Recommendations ACADEMIC RIGOUR Has this research the potential to make a new and original contribution to knowledge? No evidence of specific background research which provides the basis for depth of analysis. Lack of analysis and lack of clear direction forward makes it difficult to identify possible contributions to new knowledge. Has the research question been clearly justified by the literature review? No clear outline of the energy system in Kuwait has been provided. Modelling of the system without and with renewable energy systems is not possible without this data. No analysis of the likely energy available from either wind or solar energy has been presented. No data on the energy profile, i.e. hourly energy use, in the current and future system has been presented therefore it would not be possible to indicate whether the energy generated from a modelled system would meet the requirements. No evidence of research into developments in eco-cities in the world and how this could be implemented in an ideal situation in Kuwait. Is the research project grounded in relevant theory/theories? No evidence of theory being applied to data in the material presented. Is the proposed research design appropriate and justified? No evidence of modelling required, software to be used or if suitable data is available. Does the project show clear development from MPhil to PhD No STUDENT PROGRESS AND RESEARCH CAPACITY Does the student demonstrate an understanding of the proposed research and theoretical models? There is no depth of evidence for a particular methodology or modelling software for the proposed research. Does the student demonstrate the capacity to carry out the proposed project? The failure to appreciate the need for more frequent data on solar irradiance and wind speed and lack of depth of analysis detract from confidence in future progress. In addition, the poor demonstration of embedding of sources of information raises concerns. Are there any concerns arising from the student’s module grades (if applicable)? Is the written work to the academic standard expected? Lack of depth of analysis and failure to use sufficient referencing detract from the report. Is the Written/Spoken English language to the standard required at this stage? Written English is at an appropriate level with only minor errors in spelling and grammar. Please provide additional comments on the presentation and viva exam