Course Details

This course is appropriate for a wide range of professionals but not limited to:

• Renewable Energy Engineers and Technicians
• Electrical Engineers and Designers
• Project Developers and Installers of PV Systems
• Architects and Consultants involved in green building design
• Energy Auditors and Facilities Managers

• Expert-led sessions with dynamic visual aids 
• Comprehensive course manual to support practical application and reinforcement 
• Interactive discussions addressing participants’ real-world projects and challenges 
• Insightful case studies and proven best practices to enhance learning

By the end of this course, participants should be able to:

• Understand solar energy fundamentals, including irradiance, tilt, and orientation factors.
• Select appropriate PV modules, inverters, and balance of system (BOS) components.
• Master the electrical sizing and design of both Grid-Tied and Off-Grid PV Systems.
• Conduct thorough site assessments and shading analysis.
• Apply relevant codes, standards, and safety procedures for PV installations.
• Predict and optimize system performance using industry-standard modeling tools.

DAY 1

Solar Fundamentals and Site Assessment

• Welcome and introduction
• Pre-test
• Fundamentals of Solar Energy: Irradiance, insolation, and solar geometry
• Introduction to PV technology: Cell types (Mono/Poly-Si, Thin Film) and module characteristics
• Site Assessment: Tools and techniques for roof/ground analysis and resource mapping
• Understanding shading analysis and its impact on system performance
• Safety procedures and personal protective equipment (PPE) for PV installation

DAY 2

Component Selection and System Sizing

• Detailed selection criteria for PV modules (efficiency, temperature coefficient, warranty)
• Inverter Technology: String inverters, micro-inverters, and central inverters
• Sizing the array: Determining peak power requirements based on load and location
• Introduction to Balance of System (BOS) components (mounting structures, wiring, disconnects)
• Understanding string configuration, voltage limits, and maximum power point tracking (MPPT)

DAY 3

Grid-Tied System Design and Integration

• Principles of Grid-Tied PV Systems and net metering policies
• Detailed electrical design for DC and AC sides, including wire sizing and voltage drop calculation
• Protection devices: Fuses, circuit breakers, and grounding requirements
• Utility interconnection requirements and power quality standards
• Exercise

DAY 4

Off-Grid and Hybrid System Design

• Design principles for Off-Grid (Stand-Alone) PV Systems
• Battery Storage Sizing: Selecting battery chemistry (Lead-Acid, Li-ion) and calculating storage capacity
• Charge controllers: MPPT vs. PWM and selection criteria
• Integrating backup generators and developing hybrid systems
• Load management and energy efficiency strategies for off-grid scenarios

DAY 5

Performance Modeling, Economics, and Codes

• Using industry software (e.g., PVsyst, SAM) for system performance modeling
• Economic analysis: Calculating LCOE, ROI, and Payback Period for solar projects
• Overview of relevant Codes and Standards (e.g., NEC, IEC) and permitting requirements
• Best practices for installation quality assurance and commissioning
• Post-test
• Certificate ceremony