Solar Electric Design 103

This is the third course in our Solar Electric series and is geared towards licensed electricians, NABCEP installers seeking continuing education, contractors, or those with a strong understanding of solar electric systems and electrical principles. This 3-day practicum workshop will explore in-depth, pv systems and how they work, the intricacies of code-compliant systems design, safety, and hands on installation. The last day of the workshop (Sunday) will be dedicated to the National Electric Code (NEC) and how it applies to PV systems. NABCEP installers are welcome to enroll for this day to earn 6 continuing education credits.

Course Goal:

Participants will gain a working knowledge of the design and installation processes associated with Photovoltaic (PV) systems and will learn how to install them in a code compliant, safe, and long-lasting manner. NABCEP installers will earn 6 credits of continuing education.

Course Objectives:

• Define and differentiate system types
• Become competent in advanced system component specification and integration
• Become competent in safe, code-compliant system design and installation
• Understand proper system operation, monitoring, and maintenance

Course Format:

This workshop will run Friday through Sunday, 9am to 5pm. Sunday will be dedicated to the National Electric Code (NEC) and how it applies to PV systems. NABCEP certified installers are welcome to enroll for this day only (or the whole workshop). Workshop days will generally run with 1/2-day lecture and 1/2-day hands-on installation practicum. This schedule may vary based on: student interest/experience, installation progress, and weather.

Course Prerequisites:

Solar Electric Design 102 or equivalent.

Need to Know/What to Bring:

You are welcome to bring your own personal tools and gear, but are not required to. Hardhats and personal safety gear (safety glasses, gloves, work boots etc.) will be required throughout the on-site work. No open-toe shoes (flip flops, sandals, etc.) permitted. There will be no exceptions. Each student will leave the seminar with a packet of information and a renewed enthusiasm for moving their household or business toward greater sustainability and energy efficiency. Special discounts on selected books and products are available to our seminar attendees! Sign up today while enrollment is still open!

Lecture topics include:

• Grid-interactive and Stand-alone system review
• Installation and work-site safety
• Site analysis and advanced system design techniques
• National Electric Code (NEC) article 690 and code-compliant installation
• In-depth component specification
• Advanced wire and over-current protection selection and sizing (breakers, fuses)
• Grounding PV systems correctly
• Mounting considerations
• Building-integrated PV (BIPV)
• Selecting/sizing hybrid systems (PV/Wind, PV/Generator)
• System output evaluation and monitoring (meters, software, etc.)
• System maintenance
• System troubleshooting techniques
• Installer certification info, rebate program info, resources, etc.