205 Solar Energy courses delivered Online

Modeling is a complicated topic - and performance calculation tools offer nearly endless “knobs” to turn, any of which can impact the projected production. A fundamental understanding of what goes on “behind the scenes” is important to be able to make the right decisions when selecting data, adjusting system assumptions and de-rates, and comparing results so you can be confident when you make a production prediction or design choice. Don't worry, the heavy math is left to the modeling tool! Topics include: Examining and applying the core calculations used to predict production of PV arrays Comparing the various modeling programs on the market, and their different approaches Interpreting simulation results from performance models Relating how system design choices impact the production of the array Join Paul Grana, co-founder of Folsom Labs and the HelioScope modeling and design tool, for an in-depth look at PV system performance modeling in four Parts: Introduction and System Design Environment Assumptions and Irradiance Calculations Module Modeling and System Behavior Simulation Results and Model Comparison

The step-by-step process walks through all the requirements to design 2011 NEC compliant systems. This process applies to all circuits in grid-direct PV systems, regardless of size. Developed in conjunction with industry experts and extensively peer reviewed, SEI's wire sizing methodology takes the mystery out! Full coverage of all NEC Article 310 and 690 conductor and overcurrent device sizing. Join SEI instructors Brian Mehalic and Rebekah Hren for a three-hour on-demand training training session.

Rapid shutdown for PV systems on buildings Expansion of ground-fault and arc-fault requirements Changes that further enable 1,000 Vdc PV systems Updates to disconnect and fuse servicing requirements New standards for field-applied hazard markings Major changes for interconnecting PV systems to the grid New requirements for battery-based PV systems, both stand-alone and interactive Additional changes in Articles 690 and 705, as well as other relevant Articles Join SEI instructors and Code experts Rebekah Hren and Brian Mehalic for a fast-paced and fun three-hour long look at how PV design and installation requirements changed with the adoption of the 2014 Code.

This training includes two lessons for a total of 8 contact training hours. Each lesson includes presentations, field videos, interactive exercises, and a quiz. Lesson 1: Site and Mechanical Hazards- Identify common site and mechanical hazards that workers are exposed to when installing ground-mounted PV arrays, describe ways to mitigate hazards, determine safe working practices and PPE requirements. Lesson 2: Electrical Hazards- Determine electrical hazards on large-scale PV job sites, identify shock and arc flash hazards and implement protective measures, define lockout/tagout methods and principles, examine installation, maintenance, and PV testing hazards.

Students who complete the CE514 course will be able to: Identify codes applicable to PV systems and the requirements they address Describe requirements for protecting a structure List wind and fire resistance requirements Detail firefighter access/egress and setback requirements Define requirements relevant to BIPV and solar shingles Identify labeling requirements

Helpful tools and products used in the solar industry Residential installation tips Commercial solar installation examples Transformerless inverter installations Grid-tie with battery backup design and installation Off-grid design considerations Load side taps Grounding Ballasted roof top system design Ground mount design Custom racking Wiring methods New technologies Battery box construction

Join SEI curriculum developer and instructor Brian Mehalic for an in-depth look at this topic in eight parts: What does a diode do? Modeling PV - the basic equivalent circuit “Building” PV modules I-V curve mismatch Bypass diodes in operation Bypass diode operation in PV modules and circuits Failures and issues Case studies

Join SEI's Will White - who's been living off-grid since 2007 - for an in-depth look at off-grid system considerations in three parts: Components used in an off-grid system. Design parameters of an off-grid system. How to size individual components for an off-grid system and the maintenance required.

Rooftops represent the most available, sustainable and secure real estate, which is why low-slope and steep-slope roofs are increasingly being used as platforms for photovoltaic systems. Low-slope roofs (commonly used for commercial buildings) and steep-slope roofs (commonly used for single-family residences) have separate challenges when integrating PV systems. Information from the roofing industry and roofing manufacturer requirements will be provided as well as numerous photographs. INSTRUCTOR BIO: James R. Kirby, AIA, is Vice President of Sustainability for the Center for Environmental Innovation in Roofing, Washington, DC. Kirby has expertise in roof system design and construction, weatherproofing and energy-efficiency of the building envelope, and rooftop PV systems. His responsibilities include serving as liaison for the Center's PV taskforce, representing the roofing industry at sustainability-focused events, and presenting sustainability-based technical information to roofing and other construction trades within the US and internationally. Kirby holds a bachelor's degree in architectural studies and a master's degree in architecture (structures option) from University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. He recently received his Graduate Certificate in Sustainable Design and Construction from Boston Architectural College, and he also is an accredited Green Roofing Professional. Before joining The Center in 2012, he worked for National Roofing Contractors Association, most recently as Associate Executive Director of Technical Communications. Prior to his 16 years at NRCA, he worked for Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates Inc., Northbrook, Ill., an architectural and engineering consulting firm. He is a licensed architect in Illinois and a professional member of several industry organizations, including ASTM International, American Institute of Architects, Green Roofs for Healthy Cities, International Code Council and U.S. Green Building Council Chicago Chapter. Kirby is a frequent presenter and contributing author to the roofing, energy-efficiency and solar industries. He has given numerous presentations, educational seminars and webinars to industry-related associations and construction-affiliated groups. Kirby also is an annual guest lecturer at the Illinois Institute of Technology in Chicago.

This advanced training features troubleshooting and repair of the components in solar thermal systems, including solar space heating systems. The target audience is installers and technicians that understand installation techniques and would like to increase their comprehension of drainback and antifreeze system service procedures. A section of the class includes newer differential controls, thermistors and RTD sensors, aquastats, relays, multiple differentials and space heating components. Troubleshooting and repair related to pumps, collectors, tanks, valves and safety devices are also part of the class. This course is presented by Chuck Marken, Solar Thermal Expert and longtime SEI Instructor.