Syllabus: (PV 202) PV System Design
Prerequisites:
PV 101, PV 201
Course Description
This 16-hour course teaches the step-by-step process of designing a PV system. Participants will learn about system sizing strategies based on a number of variables, selecting appropriate equipment for each system type, analyzing data from a site assessment in the design process, planning the physical layout of the array, choosing a mounting method, applying relevant building and electrical code requirements, and calculating electrical values of system voltage, current, power, and energy production.
Learning Objectives
Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
- Evaluate design priorities and goals for PV systems in different types of applications
- Demonstrate how solar radiation data is used in sizing and estimating PV system performance
- Identify factors to consider in a site assessment, including the solar resource, environmental conditions, building and electrical codes, and utility interconnection requirements
- Consider suitability and condition of existing roof and electrical service
- Compare the features, requirements, and applications of various PV system configurations
- Explain the current-voltage (I-V) characteristics for PV devices and define key I-V parameters
- Explain how solar radiation and operating temperatures affect PV system output
- Describe maximum power point tracking (MPPT) in PV equipment
- Calculate voltage, current, and power of PV modules and batteries connected in series/parallel
- Describe the various performance ratings and test conditions for PV modules
- Describe the main principles and components of battery design
- Explain battery charging, discharging, and over-charging
- Describe how specific gravity, sulfation, stratification, and temperature affects battery life
- Describe battery types, characteristics, and selection factors
- Identify the principle functions and features of charge controllers
- Define charge regulation, temperature considerations, and control setpoints
- Identify inverter specifications and ratings
- Identify the principle functions and features of inverters
- Identify key considerations for integrating arrays on buildings and other structures
- Identify key factors involved in choosing a mounting system and method
- Differentiate between the various types of mounting configurations and their features
- Recognize different types of structural loads on roofs and PV arrays
- Identify electrical codes, regulations, and best practices applicable to PV systems
- Calculate voltage and current values for PV systems
- Determine conductor ampacity and overcurrent protection requirements for PV circuits
- Identify appropriate conductor types for PV systems based on application and environment
- Explain the function of conductor insulation and list common conductor insulation types
- Identify and describe the types of wiring connections used in PV systems
- Describe the required types of disconnecting means and their locations
- Recognize acceptable PV system grounding methods and equipment
- Describe the functions and requirements of electrical balance of system (BOS) components
- Identify applicable codes and standards for utility interconnection
- Differentiate between load-side and supply-side connections and identify code and installation requirements for each type
- Identify the common issues addressed in interconnection agreements for PV systems
- Describe typical requirements for permit applications
- Identify applicable articles of the NEC for PV-specific requirements
- Describe labeling requirements for PV systems
- Recognize equipment and rules related to Rapid Shutdown requirements for PV systems
- Recognize potential jobsite hazards
- Practice safe work habits on the jobsite, including PPE and fall protection
- Demonstrate compliance with OSHA, NEC, and NFPA 70E requirements
- Follow safe and proper startup procedures when commissioning a PV system
Required Materials
- Online: computer with speakers and Internet access
- In-person: calculator & writing utensil
- Required Textbook: You may choose one of two (or both):
- Solar Electric Handbook: Photovoltaic Fundamentals and Applications, 2nd ed. Solar Energy International. ISBN# 978-1-7363581-0-8.
- Photovoltaic Systems, 3rd ed. James P. Dunlop. ISBN# 978-1-935941-05-7.
- We currently do not have copies for sale for online courses, so you are responsible for buying, renting, or borrowing your own textbook.
Continuing Education Credits (CECs)
For more detailed information on MREA courses and Continuing Education Credits see our NABCEP Credentials and Continuing Education pages.
If you have questions about our training programs please don’t hesitate to ask, we can be reached via email at courses@midwestrenew.org or call us 715-592-6595.