67 Solar Pv courses

Multimode system configurations Load analysis and battery bank sizing PV array sizing Specifying multimode inverters Advanced multimode functions Code compliance, best practices, and installation considerations Charge controllers for multimode systems DC coupled multimode battery backup design example AC coupled system design considerations AC coupled multimode battery backup design example Energy Storage Systems (ESS) overview ESS residential sizing example Large-scale multimode system design and use cases   Note: SEI recommends working closely with a qualified person and/or taking PV 202 for more information on conductor sizing, electrical panel specification, and grounding systems. These topics will part of this course, but they are not the focus.

Stand-alone system configurations Charge controller and array considerations RV system design example DC lighting system design example Clinic system design example Code compliance and best practices for stand-alone systems Advanced battery-based inverters Generator sizing DC coupled stand-alone residential system design example AC coupled stand-alone microgrid system design example Large-scale microgrid considerations and case studies Flooded battery maintenance considerations Stand-alone PV system commissioning and maintenance Note: SEI recommends working closely with a qualified person and/or taking PV 202 for more information on conductor sizing, electrical panel specification, and grounding systems. These topics will part of this course, but they are not the focus.

Participants perform preliminary system sizing for mechanical and electrical power generation of 50-watt to 100-kilowatt capacities. This training combines class lectures with site tours and lab exercises. Hands-on exercises include: methods of flow measurement, determining head, analyzing and assembling small functioning systems. The class is taught by two highly experienced Micro-hydro installers/instructors. Topics Include: • Learn safety procedures working with electricity • Understand fundamental water hydraulics and hydrostatic pressures. Understand the difference between static and dynamic heads. • Understand the various components of hydroelectric systems • Identify the two major hydro turbine groups (reaction and impulse turbines) • Learn the differences between AC and DC Systems • Develop site analysis skills for measuring water flow and elevation difference (head) • Review 6 different plan examples of hydroelectric system designs • Learn battery design and energy storage techniques • Understand controls for balancing energy production with energy loads • Summarize troubleshooting procedures and resources • Develop maintenance requirements both short and long term • Learn integration techniques for hybrid solar, wind and hydroelectric systems • Review 4 case studies using different turbine types • Learn legal requirements for hydroelectric systems including FERC permits, water rights and stream alteration.

Students who complete PVOL202 will be able to: Define the purpose of the National Electrical Code (NEC®) and NEC® terminology for PV equipment Determine procedures for proper installation of equipment and conductors, including minimum requirements for working space Examine methods for PV wire management and determine where expansion fittings are required Describe and identify electrical services, including split-phase and three-phase Wye (Y) and Delta (∆) Evaluate electrical service details to collect and record during solar site evaluation Identify options for NEC®-compliant PV system interconnection to the utility grid and determine whether a supply side, load side, or additional service connection is appropriate Identify code-compliant methods for connecting an inverter to an existing AC feeder Calculate PV module voltage based on temperature to ensure compatibility with system components and NEC® Section 690.7, and explore other options for maximum PV system DC voltage calculations Identify NEC® requirements and sizing of disconnects and overcurrent protection devices (OCPDs) in grid-direct PV systems Define inverter grounding configurations Evaluate inverter choices and system configurations, including string inverters, central inverters, and module level power electronics (MLPE) Identify requirements for equipment grounding, equipment grounding conductors (EGC), and grounding electrode conductors (GEC), and size the conductors according to the NEC® Identify common causes of ground-faults and arc-faults Describe ground-fault and arc-fault protection devices Describe benefits and appropriate locations of surge protection devices (SPD) Demonstrate the use of sun charts and perform calculations to determine row spacing and minimize inter-row shading Identify how Codes detailing access for first responders impact PV array roof layout Examine fire classifications that affect racking and module selection Detail NEC rapid shutdown requirements and options for implementation Identify load and structural considerations for low- and steep-slope roof-mounted PV systems Calculate wind uplift force and select appropriate lag bolts Review issues related to planning, design, and installation of ground-mount PV arrays Review PV system circuit terminology, definitions, and conductor types Calculate minimum overcurrent protection device (OCPD) size and conductor ampacity using appropriate adjustment and correction factors Calculate voltage drop and verify system operation within acceptable limits Examine requirements for PV system labeling Calculate the maximum and minimum number of modules per PV source circuit, and number of PV source circuits per inverter Determine size of residential grid-direct PV system based on site and customer-specific considerations including the number and wiring layout of modules, conductor and OCPD sizes, and the AC interconnections Determine the size of a large, multiple inverter, grid-direct PV system based on site and customer-specific considerations, including the quantity and layout of modules and inverters and the AC interconnection Define large-scale PV and review associated NEC® allowances and requirements Describe importance of Data Acquisition Systems (DAS) Identify common DAS equipment and hardware Review DAS design, installation, and commissioning processes and common problems associated with DAS Show how reports can be generated and utilized to remotely assess health of system

Students who complete PVOL206 will be able to: Discuss the basics of policy and its effect on the solar industry Identify resources to learn more about policy and keep up to date with new developments Describe general sales tips Discuss common objections Identify techniques to close a sale Identify customer motivations and needs Discuss project timeline with customer Manage customer expectations and advise about PV system limitations Discuss manufactures, installation, and roof warranties Explain expected system performance Identify jurisdictional issues (zoning, fire marshal regulations) and city, county, and utility requirements Understand electric bill terminology, key information, and billing procedures Recognize any variations in energy use Determine property type, house orientation, roof tilt/angle, and available area Identify any shading and evaluate obstructions Estimate array size based on customer budget, kWh consumption, and / or available roof area Price array size based on average $/watt Develop price range, savings estimate, and preliminary economic analysis Present (verbal / brief) initial ballpark proposal and benefits, discuss customer's budget limits Identify overall customer considerations and general safety requirements Define the electrical meter and main service panel information required Identify point of interconnection, location for electrical equipment, and location for conduit runs Describe factors to consider with data monitoring Determine maximum PV capacity that can be connected to a specific service and/or electrical panel Create a final array layout Accurately estimate PV system production Define metrics to evaluate labor and material costs Calculate an average residential system cost & identify the major contributing factors Identify the main benefits of reviewing actual build data (job costing) Define property tax exemptions, tax deductions, transfer credits, sales tax exemptions Explain performance based-initiatives Evaluate taxability of credits and other incentives Review net-metering and feed-in tariff laws Identify different utility financial structures and regulated and deregulated markets Describe demand charges & the duck curve Outline financing basics Explore ownership models Calculate annual and cumulative cash flow, determine payback Calculate the environmental benefits of installing solar Identify what to include in a proposal, the proposal process, and what tools are available to generate proposals

Students who complete PVOL203 will be able to: Recognize demand and PV production curves Identify the common types of PV systems and their major components Describe DC and AC coupled systems Discuss load profiles and modes of operation, including: peak load shaving, time-of-use, zero-sell, self-consumption prioritization, demand-side management Introduce utility-scale storage and microgrids Explain the relationship between real power, apparent power, and reactive power Complete a load estimate for different system types and for seasonal loads; evaluate electrical requirements of loads Identify phantom loads and efficiency upgrades Estimate starting surge and power factor requirements Describe the differences when sizing battery-based systems compared to grid-direct systems Choose a peak sun hour value based on design criteria for various systems Review battery basics and terminology Describe and compare different battery chemistries and technologies Find the capacity and voltage of different batteries; determine state of charge List safety precautions and hazards to be aware of when working with batteries; list appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) Identify appropriate battery enclosures Calculate values for current, voltage, and energy for different battery bank configurations Review battery bank design parameters Complete a lithium-ion battery bank design example Review and compare different design example costs List features, options, and metering available for different types of battery chargers Explain basics of lithium battery charging Compare generator types and duty cycle ratings, including fuel options Identify specifications critical for choosing appropriate battery-based inverters Discuss different overcurrent protection devices and equipment disconnects and when/where they are required Define the maximum voltage drop slowed for the proper functioning of a battery-based PV system Identify safe installation procedures List basic commissioning tests which should be completed before and after a system is operating

Define multimode system terminology Describe goals and applications of multimode systems Detail basic component layouts of multimode systems Define microgrid systems and diagram component layouts for microgrid applications List applications for multimode systems Distinguish between back-up and self-consumption use cases Examine daily and annual data to perform a load analysis Review battery bank sizing Identify PV array sizing methods and variables for multimode systems Calculate minimum PV array size to meet load requirements Calculate what percentage of overall annual consumption will be offset by selected PV array size Analyze data required to specify a multimode inverter Differentiate between sizing considerations for internal and external AC connections Describe various configurations for stacking and clustering multiple inverters Describe when and why advanced inverter functions are used Discuss the equipment and designs needed for advanced multimode functions Analyze each advanced multimode function List data needed to perform an accurate financial analysis of systems that use advanced multimode functions Describe factors that can affect the financial analysis of systems using advanced multimode functions Describe the National Electrical Code (NEC®) Articles that apply to the different parts of PV and energy storage systems (ESS) Identify specific requirements for ESS and systems interconnected with a primary power source List relevant building & fire codes Communicate specific requirements for workspace clearances, disconnects, & OCPD Describe PV system requirements that affect ESS installation List ESS labeling requirements Review DC coupled systems, including advantages and disadvantages Discuss MPPT charge controller operations and options Review charge controller sizing for grid-tied systems Design a DC coupled multimode PV system for a residential application Define operating modes of an AC coupled PV system while grid-connected or in island mode Explain charge regulation methods of grid-direct inverter output Review AC coupled PV system design strategies Evaluate equipment options for AC coupled multimode applications Design an AC coupled multimode PV system for a residential application Define Energy Storage System (ESS) Describe criteria for evaluating energy storage system configurations and applications Design ESS system for back-up power Describe large-scale energy storage system applications and functions; review use case examples Analyze equipment configuration options for large-scale AC and DC coupled systems Formulate questions to enable design optimization of large-scale energy storage systems Note: SEI recommends working closely with a qualified person and/or taking PV 202 for more information on conductor sizing, electrical panel specification, and grounding systems. These topics will be part of this course, but they are not the focus.

Define terms used in stand-alone systems Name common applications for stand-alone systems; describe basic component layouts Describe differences between AC and DC coupling State principle elements of a microgrid Define the importance of an accurate load analysis Review load analysis procedures; perform a load analysis based on daily data Review battery bank sizing for lead-acid and lithium-ion battery types Define array sizing variables and how they affect design for both MPPT and non-MPPT charge controllers Explain charge controller types and describe maximum power point tracking and voltage step-down Examine the calculations for PV array sizing Describe the difference between sizing for a non-MPPT and an MPPT charge controller Complete array configuration calculations for a system with a non-MPPT and an MPPT charge controller Summarize the parameters to check when selecting a charge controller Explain the purpose of DC load control and the three ways it can be implemented Identify design variables, advantages, and disadvantages of DC-only PV systems Describe how to size and integrate components for a recreational vehicle (RV) application Identify installation and maintenance considerations specific to mobile applications Identify applications and considerations for DC lighting systems Specify a battery-based inverter given electrical load and surge requirements Describe various configurations for stacking and clustering multiple inverters Examine inverter / charger size considerations Describe multiwire branch circuit wiring and concerns with single-phase supplies Describe the purpose and function of a generator Identify considerations that impact generator selection Solve for location-based performance degradation Specify a generator given electrical load, battery charging, and surge requirements Estimate approximate generator run time List generator maintenance Describe the National Electrical Code (NEC®) Articles that apply to the different parts of PV and energy storage systems (ESS) Identify NEC® requirements for workspace clearances, disconnects, and overcurrent protection devices (OCPD) that apply to PV systems Locate and apply specific requirements for storage batteries, stand-alone systems, and energy storage systems Identify labeling requirements List relevant building and fire codes Review installation considerations and best practices for stand-alone systems as related to batteries, design strategies, monitoring and metering, balance of system (BOS) equipment Review DC-coupled stand-alone residential system design Define operating modes of off-grid AC coupled PV systems Explain charge regulation of AC coupled PV inverters in a stand-alone system Discuss AC coupled PV system design strategies; evaluate equipment options for AC coupled off-grid applications Design a stand-alone microgrid system with PV (AC and DC coupled) and generator power sources Distinguish between isolated and non-isolated microgrids Compare concepts of centralized versus decentralized generation and controls Identify different types of microgrid analysis and planning software Review isolated microgrid use case examples Identify general PPE for battery system maintenance Develop a battery maintenance plan Identify methods to measure battery state of charge Identify common causes of battery problems and how to avoid them Identify PPE for lead-acid battery maintenance Develop a battery maintenance plan for lead-acid batteries Describe how to correctly add water to a flooded lead-acid (FLA) battery bank Identify methods to measure battery state of charge of FLA batteries Define when and why equalization is needed Identify common causes of battery problems and how to avoid them Note: SEI recommends working closely with a qualified person and/or taking PV 202 for more information on conductor sizing, electrical panel specification, and grounding systems. These topics will part of this course, but they are not the focus.

Discuss preventative and reactive maintenance plans and activities. Summarize safety procedures and PPE requirements for O&M technicians. Describe the field procedures required to evaluate the performance of PV systems. List appropriate requirements for meters, tools, and other equipment used in O&M activities. Define the theory, procedures, and processes behind insulation resistance testing, IV curve tracing, infrared cameras and thermal imaging, and other tools of the trade. Analyze test results to determine performance, compare baseline data, and pinpoint system issues. Describe inspection requirements for preventative maintenance inspections. Illustrate methods for locating and troubleshooting common PV array and system faults using appropriate methodologies and testing tools.

The course will familiarize students with industry history, the distribution chain, jobs in the industry, safe practices, and national codes and standards. Students will explore the different types of collectors, systems, components, and materials used in solar heating systems and determine their appropriate applications. The course will also examine the techniques and tools used for installing solar heating equipment. Finally, students will learn how to conduct site assessments, analyze hot water loads, develop accurate system sizing and project cost estimates, and identify the economic and non-economic benefits of a solar heating system. Students who complete the SHOL101 course will be able to perform the following: Differentiate between various renewable energy sources and types of systems Perform calculations as needed for system sizing and other exercises. Evaluate the different types of SH systems and their suitability for specific climates. Describe solar energy and applications for solar heating systems. Identify components specific to various types of solar water heating and solar pool heating systems. List the applications, operation, and functionality of the following SH systems - solar pool heating, ICS, thermosyphon, direct forced circulation, drainback, and antifreeze. Obtain specifications for various solar collectors and determine collector performance given various environmental and operating conditions. Identify various types of tools used in the SH industry and explain how to use them safely. Determine the magnetic declination, define azimuth and altitude angle and evaluate the shade potential for a given site. Estimate energy production of a SH system based on location specifics including orientation and tilt angle. Describe methods of attaching mounting hardware to a collector. Evaluate what type of solar heating system is most appropriate based on specific site criteria. Identify appropriate codes and standards concerning the installation, operation, and maintenance of SWH systems. Identify potential safety hazards and the proper personal protective equipment for working on solar heating systems.