COURSE DESCRIPTION:

This course provides a practical and theoretical introduction to solar photovoltaic (PV) systems. Participants will learn to design, install, operate, and maintain solar energy systems for residential and small commercial applications.

LEARNING OUTCOMES:

Students should be able to:

1. Explain the principles of solar energy and photovoltaic systems
2. Identify components of solar PV systems
3. Design basic solar PV systems based on load requirements
4. Install and configure solar panels and associated equipment
5. Perform system testing, troubleshooting, and maintenance
6. Apply safety standards in solar installations
7. Evaluate system performance and efficiency

CONTENT OUTLINE

UNIT ONE:  INTRODUCTION TO SOLAR ENERGY     HOURS: 6

INSTRUCTIONAL OBJECTIVES

Students should be able to:

• Explain renewable energy concepts
• Describe solar radiation and energy conversion
• Identify types of solar energy systems

CONTENT

• Renewable energy overview
• Solar radiation and insolation
• Types of solar systems (grid-tied, off-grid, hybrid)
• Applications of solar energy

UNIT TWO:    SOLAR PV COMPONENTS & ELECTRICAL BASICS                                                                                  HOURS: 8

INSTRUCTIONAL OBJECTIVES

Students should be able to:

• Identify solar PV system components
• Explain DC and AC electrical principles
• Interpret basic electrical parameters

CONTENT

• Solar panels (monocrystalline, polycrystalline)
• Inverters, batteries, charge controllers
• Electrical concepts: voltage, current, power
• Wiring and connections

UNIT THREE

INSTRUCTIONAL OBJECTIVES

Students should be able to:

• Calculate load requirements
• Size solar PV systems
• Determine panel orientation and tilt

CONTENT

• Load analysis
• System sizing
• Panel layout design
• Energy efficiency considerations

UNIT FOUR:  INSTALLATION & SAFETY                              HOURS: 6

INSTRUCTIONAL OBJECTIVES

Students should be able to:

• Install solar PV systems
• Apply safety procedures
• Configure system components

CONTENT

• Mounting systems
• Installation techniques
• Safety procedures and PPE
• Electrical safety standards

UNIT FIVE:    TESTING, MAINTENANCE & APPLICATIONS    HOURS: 8

INSTRUCTIONAL OBJECTIVES

Students should be able to:

• Test and commission solar systems
• Perform maintenance procedures
• Evaluate system performance

CONTENT

• System testing and troubleshooting
• Maintenance practices
• Performance monitoring
• Applications in residential and commercial settings

METHODS OF DELIVERY

• Lectures and demonstrations
• Hands-on laboratory sessions
• Practical installation exercises
• Group projects

METHODS OF EVALUATION

• Course Work: 60%
• Assignments                                                              
• Mid Term Examination
• Final Examination: 40%

SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION

• Installation manuals
• System design templates
• Practical assessment logs
• Project portfolio

RECOMMENDED TEXTS

• Messenger, R. – Photovoltaic Systems Engineering
• Duffie, J. & Beckman, W. – Solar Engineering of Thermal Processes
• IEC Solar Standards & Guidelines

CERTIFICATION OUTCOME:

• Participants will receive:
• Certificate in Solar Energy Systems (Basic to Intermediate)
• Practical installation experience and project portfolio

GRADING SCALE