(S101)*

Contact Hours: 8

Course Description

This course is designed for those who are directly responsible for hands-on installation of solar electric systems. Topics include solar energy fundamentals, measurement and calculation for system layout and placement and system installation techniques. This course considers a variety of solar energy systems for residential and commercial applications.

The course emphasizes hands-on training exercises and labs. Students will gain a thorough understanding of the tools and techniques used to install a solar PV system. Safe use and storage of required tools will also be covered, along with OSHA and NEC safety codes.

Prerequisites

There is no prerequisite coursework; experience in the building trades is helpful. No solar industry experience is assumed. Knowledge requirements include basic math skills (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions, decimals, and percentages. Skill requirements include experience with hand tools and the physical ability to work at heights using personal fall protection equipment.

Though the class does not have any prerequisite coursework, it is highly recommended that students have a sound understanding of solar energy fundamentals before coming to class. For those who need a quick overview, Photovoltaics, published by Solar Energy International is recommended. For a more in-depth description of solar energy and PV systems, try Photovoltaic Systems by Jim Dunlap. Both books are available from the ONTILITY store.

Course Objectives

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

• Describe various types of solar PV mounting systems and the primary use for each type
• Describe types of roofs, both residential and commercial, and appropriate array mounting techniques for each type
• Describe various structural loads and how to mitigate the impact of adding a PV array to a structure
• Calculate wind loads and strength of common attachment methods
• Calculate array space requirements
• Create array layout drawings/li>
• Produce an accurate parts list for mounting an array according to given design and layout specifications
• Describe best safety requirements for mounting solar arrays

Textbooks & Instructional Manuals

Solar Technician Training, published by ONTILITY

These materials are provided to students at the beginning of the course. The cost of materials is included in the tuition fee.

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.

Course & Instructor Evaluation

Students are encouraged to provide informal feedback throughout the course. A survey is distributed to students on the last day of class whereby students are asked to evaluate the class and the instructor. This feedback is used to create an on-going professional development plan for instructors and to inform course improvements.

Student Evaluation

Student performance is evaluated by:

• Class participation
• Attendance - 8 hours is required

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.

Class Fee: $295

* These are Powered by ONTILITY Certified Partner™ Program Courses. One or more of these courses may be required to achieve designation as a Powered by ONTILITY™ Certified Partner™.