Photovoltaic Installation Course

Lesson 1 • Solar Radiation and the Sun's Energy

Covers solar irradiance, spectral distribution, and seasonal variation. Provides the physical basis for understanding how site conditions affect PV output.

Lesson 2 • Electrical Characteristics of PV Modules

Analyzes I-V and P-V curves, maximum power point, and shading effects. Builds the electrical reasoning needed for array configuration decisions.

Lesson 3 • Photovoltaic Effect and Cell Physics

Explains semiconductor physics, the p-n junction, and electron-hole pair generation. Links atomic-level processes to measurable electrical output.

Lesson 4 • PV Module Construction and Ratings

Details module layers, encapsulants, and standard test condition ratings. Students interpret datasheets to match modules to system design targets.

Lesson 1 • Balance of System Components

Identifies wiring, combiners, disconnects, meters, and monitoring devices that complete a PV system. Ensures students can enumerate all components needed for a full installation.

Lesson 2 • Energy Storage and Battery Systems

Examines battery chemistries, state of charge, and charge controllers for storage integration. Prepares students to size and specify storage for off-grid and backup applications.

Lesson 3 • Inverters: Types and Functions

Covers string, microinverter, and power optimizer topologies and their DC-to-AC conversion roles. Connects inverter choice to system efficiency and monitoring capability.

Lesson 4 • PV System Types and Configurations

Distinguishes grid-tied, off-grid, and hybrid system architectures by function and use case. Sets the framework for component selection in subsequent sections.

Lesson 1 • Roof and Structural Evaluation

Assesses roof type, age, orientation, pitch, and structural capacity for PV loading. Prevents costly rework by identifying structural issues before design is finalized.

Lesson 2 • Electrical Infrastructure Assessment

Evaluates existing service panel capacity, utility meter type, and interconnection feasibility. Identifies electrical upgrades required before system installation can proceed.

Lesson 3 • Shading Analysis and Obstruction Mapping

Quantifies shading losses from trees, chimneys, and neighboring structures across all hours. Directly informs array layout and technology selection to minimize energy loss.

Lesson 4 • Solar Irradiance Data and Databases

Introduces irradiance databases, typical meteorological year data, and data quality assessment. Enables accurate energy yield predictions grounded in historical climate records.

Lesson 1 • Electrical Hazards in PV Systems

Identifies DC arc flash, shock, and fire hazards unique to photovoltaic systems. Establishes the safety mindset required before any hands-on installation work begins.

Lesson 2 • Lockout/Tagout and Safe Work Practices

Applies lockout/tagout procedures and safe isolation methods to de-energize PV systems. Protects installers and maintenance personnel from unexpected energization during work.

Lesson 3 • Overcurrent Protection and Disconnects

Sizes fuses and breakers for source circuits, output circuits, and AC interconnection points. Ensures fault currents are safely interrupted before causing equipment damage or fire.

Lesson 4 • Grounding and Bonding Requirements

Explains equipment grounding, system grounding, and bonding for PV arrays and racking. Prevents shock and equipment damage by ensuring proper fault current paths.

Lesson 1 • Inverter and Storage Sizing

Matches inverter capacity to array output and sizes battery storage for autonomy or backup goals. Ensures components operate within rated parameters for safety and warranty compliance.

Lesson 2 • Array Sizing and Configuration

Determines module count, string length, and parallel strings to meet energy targets within inverter limits. Produces the core array design that defines system output.

Lesson 3 • Wire Sizing and Voltage Drop Calculations

Applies ampacity tables and voltage drop formulas to select conductors for all system circuits. Ensures safe, efficient power delivery from array to point of interconnection.

Lesson 4 • Single-Line Diagrams and Design Documentation

Creates single-line diagrams, equipment schedules, and permit drawing sets to professional standards. Produces the deliverables required for permitting and utility interconnection approval.

Lesson 1 • Module Handling and Installation

Teaches safe module lifting, placement, and electrical connection sequencing on the racking system. Prevents module damage and installer injury during the most physically demanding phase.

Lesson 2 • Ground-Mount and Ballasted System Installation

Adapts installation techniques to ground-mount posts, concrete footings, and ballasted flat-roof systems. Expands installer capability beyond residential rooftop to commercial and utility-scale work.

Lesson 3 • Fall Protection and Rooftop Safety

Establishes fall hazard recognition and personal fall arrest system use for rooftop work. Safety compliance is a prerequisite for all subsequent mechanical installation tasks.

Lesson 4 • Racking Assembly and Alignment

Covers rail installation, leveling, and module clamp torque specifications for common racking systems. Ensures structural integrity and manufacturer warranty compliance for the mounting system.

Lesson 1 • System Labeling and Warning Signs

Applies all required labels, warning signs, and placards to PV system components and conductors. Satisfies inspection requirements and protects future workers from electrical hazards.

Lesson 2 • DC Array Wiring and String Connections

Covers module-level wiring, string home-run routing, and combiner box termination for DC circuits. Establishes the foundation of the electrical installation from the array outward.

Lesson 3 • Conduit Installation and Wire Pulling

Applies conduit bending, support spacing, and wire-pulling techniques for interior and exterior runs. Ensures durable, code-compliant conductor protection from array to inverter and beyond.

Lesson 4 • AC Output Wiring and Interconnection

Wires inverter AC output to the service panel or point of interconnection with proper overcurrent protection. Completes the electrical path that delivers solar energy to the building loads.

Lesson 1 • Monitoring System Setup and Verification

Configures monitoring hardware and software to track production, consumption, and alerts. Enables ongoing performance tracking and rapid fault detection after handover.

Lesson 2 • Performance Verification and Measurement

Measures actual system output against predicted performance using irradiance and power data. Identifies underperformance causes and confirms the system meets design specifications.

Lesson 3 • Customer Handover and System Documentation

Delivers as-built drawings, warranties, operation manuals, and a customer orientation session. Ensures the owner can operate the system safely and understand their production data.

Lesson 4 • Pre-Energization Inspection and Testing

Performs visual inspection, continuity tests, and insulation resistance checks before applying power. Catches wiring errors and equipment defects before they cause damage or safety incidents.