Solar Installer Course

Lesson 1 • How Solar Energy Works

Covers the physics of sunlight conversion to electricity via the photovoltaic effect. Grounds all subsequent technical content in core energy principles.

Lesson 2 • Types of Solar Technologies

Compares monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and thin-film PV technologies. Enables informed product selection decisions throughout the course.

Lesson 3 • Regulatory and Standards Framework

Introduces electrical codes, building standards, and utility interconnection requirements governing solar installations. Establishes compliance awareness before hands-on work begins.

Lesson 1 • Grounding and Bonding Fundamentals

Explains equipment grounding, system grounding, and bonding requirements for PV arrays. Prevents shock hazards and ensures code-compliant installations.

Lesson 2 • Using Electrical Test Equipment

Trains students to operate multimeters, clamp meters, and insulation testers accurately. Measurement skills are applied in every subsequent installation and troubleshooting task.

Lesson 3 • Electrical Safety Practices

Covers lockout/tagout procedures, arc flash hazards, and personal protective equipment selection. Mandatory knowledge before any hands-on electrical work.

Lesson 4 • Core Electrical Concepts

Teaches voltage, current, resistance, and power relationships using Ohm's Law. Forms the mathematical backbone for all system sizing and wiring tasks.

Lesson 1 • Racking and Mounting Systems

Covers roof-mount, ground-mount, and ballasted racking designs and their structural requirements. Proper mounting selection prevents roof damage and wind uplift failures.

Lesson 2 • Inverters and Power Conversion

Compares string, microinverter, and power optimiser topologies and their grid interaction. Inverter selection directly affects system yield and monitoring capability.

Lesson 3 • Battery Storage and Backup Systems

Introduces lead-acid and lithium battery chemistries, charge controllers, and backup configurations. Prepares students for the growing battery-integrated installation market.

Lesson 4 • Solar Modules and Arrays

Examines module construction, nameplate ratings, and temperature coefficients. Provides the component knowledge needed for accurate system sizing.

Lesson 1 • String Sizing and Configuration

Applies voltage and current limits to determine optimal string lengths and parallel strings. Prevents inverter damage and maximises energy harvest.

Lesson 2 • Roof and Structural Evaluation

Teaches inspection of roof type, age, pitch, and structural capacity for solar loading. Identifies conditions requiring remediation before installation proceeds.

Lesson 3 • Load Analysis and System Sizing

Calculates customer energy consumption and translates it into array and inverter sizing. Ensures the designed system meets production goals within budget constraints.

Lesson 4 • Shading Analysis and Solar Access

Uses shading tools and sun-path diagrams to quantify annual energy loss from obstructions. Accurate shading data drives module layout and inverter topology decisions.

Lesson 1 • Module Mounting and Clipping

Guides safe module lifting, placement, and securing with mid and end clamps. Correct torque and clamp placement prevent module damage and wind uplift.

Lesson 2 • Roof Penetration and Flashing

Demonstrates waterproof lag bolt installation and flashing techniques for various roof materials. Improper penetrations are the leading cause of post-installation roof leaks.

Lesson 3 • Racking Assembly and Layout

Covers rail cutting, leveling, and attachment to roof anchors per manufacturer specifications. Precise racking alignment ensures module fit and structural integrity.

Lesson 4 • Rapid Shutdown System Installation

Installs module-level and array-level rapid shutdown devices per current code requirements. Rapid shutdown protects first responders during roof emergencies.

Lesson 1 • Main Panel and Utility Interconnection

Connects the PV system to the main service panel using load-side or supply-side tap methods. Proper interconnection method selection depends on panel capacity and utility rules.

Lesson 2 • Inverter Installation and AC Wiring

Mounts inverters, makes AC output connections, and installs AC disconnects per manufacturer specs. Correct AC wiring ensures safe grid interaction and warranty compliance.

Lesson 3 • System Labeling and Documentation

Applies all required warning labels, placards, and as-built documentation to the completed system. Correct labeling is required for inspection approval and emergency responder safety.

Lesson 4 • DC Wiring from Array to Inverter

Routes and connects DC source circuits, string wiring, and combiner boxes to the inverter. Proper DC wiring prevents arc faults and maximises energy delivery.

Lesson 1 • Monitoring System Setup

Configures inverter monitoring platforms and communication interfaces for ongoing performance tracking. Monitoring enables early fault detection and customer satisfaction.

Lesson 2 • Inspection Preparation and Process

Prepares the installation for authority having jurisdiction inspection, including documentation and site readiness. Passing first-time inspection reduces project cost and schedule delays.

Lesson 3 • Performance Testing and Verification

Measures open-circuit voltage, short-circuit current, and operating power against design values. Deviations indicate wiring errors, shading issues, or equipment faults.

Lesson 4 • System Startup Sequence

Follows a structured energisation sequence from DC source circuits through inverter to grid connection. Correct startup order protects equipment and confirms safe operation.

Lesson 1 • Preventive Maintenance Programmes

Establishes scheduled inspection, cleaning, and testing routines to maximise system lifespan. Proactive maintenance reduces service calls and supports long-term customer relationships.

Lesson 2 • Battery System Troubleshooting

Diagnoses battery management system faults, capacity degradation, and charge controller errors. Battery issues require additional safety precautions due to stored energy hazards.

Lesson 3 • Systematic Troubleshooting Methodology

Applies a structured fault isolation process from symptom identification to root cause confirmation. A repeatable method reduces diagnostic time and prevents misdiagnosis.

Lesson 4 • Inverter and AC-Side Faults

Interprets inverter error codes, grid fault events, and AC wiring issues affecting system output. Inverter faults account for a significant share of system downtime.