Prerequisites: none
Duration: 4 weeks- 30 hours online asynchronous

Price : $249 USD - Subsidized Cost

Scholarships Available!

This entry level training provides a solid foundation to DC solar system fundamentals. The online class combines Unit 1 and Unit 2 into a 30 hour, 4-week program. Students will learn about common solar applications and explore the physical and electrical characteristics of solar modules. Students will also explore the building blocks of a simple DC battery-based PV system and study the electrical parameters of the equipment, how to work safely with electrical systems, and best practices for the installation of small PV systems.

This class includes 4 Live Zoom sessions (optional for students) to review course materials with Remote Energy Instructors!

Unit 1 Topics:

• Solar Applications - Explore all the possibilities of different solar applications from small solar lighting systems to large village microgrid system

• Electricity Basics V, A, W - Review AC versus DC and basic electrical terminology such as volts, amps , Watts and apply them to PV systems

• PV Module Basics - Examine the physical properties of  PV modules including  frames, junction boxes, connectors, wire leads, etc.   Review a PV module specification sheet to understand the electrical operating and design parameters

• PV Module current and voltage testing with a digital multi-meter (DMM)

Unit 2 Topics:

• Intro to Small System Fundamentals - Explore the components and flow of electricity in small, off-grid PV systems. 

• Learn about energy and apply Wh, kWh, and Ah to PV systems

• PV Modules - Discuss PV module types and terminology. Discover the effects of temperature & irradiance on PV performance. Discuss MC connectors & grounding and how to properly handle PV modules. Evaluate the solar resource and PV module placement to maximize production and explore different PV mounting options.

• Battery Basics - Learn about battery functions & types, terminology, physical properties, electrical properties, and safety.

• Basic Charge Controllers - Inspect the physical properties of a charge controller. Review a charge controller specification sheet to understand the important physical and electrical characteristics and parameters.

• Match all components in a small PV system and review the flow of energy in the system from source to electrical load. Wiring Basics- Avoid wiring pitfalls and learn the best practice for making proper wire connections

• Over-current Protection & Disconnect Placement- Learn the difference between fuses, breakers, and disconnects and where they are needed in a PV system

• Troubleshooting Basics -Discuss common causes of failure and how to perform an inspection