Class Description

This course is a companion to Ontility’s Solar Electric Lab - Residential (S106) and provides hands-on experience with solar PV equipment, materials and tools used in commercial systems. Topics include site survey and shading analysis, PV module wiring, system mechanical layout and installation, mounting techniques and equipment, and balance of system installation.

Prerequisites

ONTILITY Entry Level Solar Electric Training, (S103), or equivalent classroom instruction in solar fundamentals, PV system design, installation and operation plus ONTILITY Solar Electric Lab – Residential (S106). Knowledge requirements include basic math skills (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions, decimals, and percentages, use of formulas, algebra, and word problems), use of the Internet, problem solving skills, and the use of a calculator. Use of basic hand tools is required for lab participation.

Course Objectives

Upon Completion of this course, the student will have the ability to:

• Identify and configure electrical balance of system components
• Analyze load demands and calculate system requirements
• Conduct a site survey and specify system components and design
• Determine suitability of various types of commercial roofs for installation of various PV systems
• Describe various mounting systems and perform mounting procedures of PV modules and electrical components
• Perform commissioning, maintenance, and troubleshooting procedures for installed systems
• Demonstrate proper and safe use of required tools and measurement instruments necessary to conduct a thorough site survey and system installation
• Demonstrate proper safety procedures in adherence to OSHA regulations

Student Evaluation

Student performance is evaluated on the basis of:

• Participation in class discussions and lab activities
• Attendance - 16 hours is required

Attendance Policy

It is expected that students will attend scheduled classes regularly and on time. If an absence occurs, it is the responsibility of the student to make up all missed work. Students, who must withdraw from a class, will receive credit for work completed and may complete the course at a later date with instructor approval. Attendance will be tracked and maintained for various reporting purposes.

Students with Disabilities

This institution complies with Section 504 and the Americans with Disabilities Act. Students with disabilities who seek accommodations must make their requests knows when registering for a course or workshop. If a disability is identified after class has begun, a non-retroactive accommodation plan will be developed.