Solar Installation Course

Lesson 1 • How Solar Energy Works

Covers the physics of sunlight conversion to electricity via the photovoltaic effect. Establishes the scientific basis for all subsequent installation and design topics.

Lesson 2 • Photovoltaic Cell and Module Technology

Examines monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and thin-film cell types and their performance characteristics. Connects material science to real-world module selection decisions.

Lesson 3 • Industry Roles and Career Pathways

Outlines the solar value chain from manufacturing to installation and maintenance. Helps students identify professional roles and certification requirements relevant to their goals.

Lesson 1 • String and Array Configuration

Teaches how to combine modules in series and parallel to meet inverter input requirements. Correct configuration prevents equipment damage and maximises energy harvest.

Lesson 2 • Electrical Safety Fundamentals

Covers shock hazards, arc flash risks, and lockout/tagout procedures specific to PV systems. Establishes the safety mindset required before any hands-on installation work begins.

Lesson 3 • Core Electrical Concepts

Reviews voltage, current, resistance, and power as they apply to PV circuits. These concepts underpin every calculation performed during system design and troubleshooting.

Lesson 1 • Solar Modules and Racking Systems

Details module construction, nameplate data interpretation, and racking hardware types. Proper component identification is the prerequisite for safe mechanical installation.

Lesson 2 • Inverters and Power Conversion

Compares string, microinverter, and power optimiser topologies and their grid-interface requirements. Inverter selection directly affects system yield, monitoring, and compliance.

Lesson 3 • Energy Storage and Battery Systems

Introduces lead-acid and lithium-ion battery chemistries, charge controllers, and battery management systems. Storage integration is increasingly required in modern residential and commercial installations.

Lesson 4 • Wiring, Conduit, and Overcurrent Protection

Covers PV wire types, conduit fill rules, and fuse and breaker sizing for PV circuits. Correct wiring practices ensure compliance with electrical safety standards.

Lesson 1 • Load Analysis and System Sizing

Guides students through energy consumption analysis and array sizing calculations. Proper sizing ensures the system meets client energy goals without over- or under-building.

Lesson 2 • Design Software and Production Modelling

Introduces industry-standard simulation tools for modelling annual energy yield and losses. Simulation output validates design decisions and supports customer proposals.

Lesson 3 • Conducting a Site Survey

Teaches roof measurement, structural assessment, and shading analysis using field tools. Accurate site data is the foundation of every reliable system design.

Lesson 4 • Permitting and Interconnection Requirements

Covers permit application documents, single-line diagrams, and utility interconnection agreements. Understanding regulatory requirements prevents project delays and ensures legal compliance.

Lesson 1 • Module Mounting and Handling

Teaches safe module lifting, placement, and clamping to prevent physical damage and ensure secure attachment. Proper handling protects both the installer and the equipment.

Lesson 2 • Racking Assembly and Alignment

Covers rail installation, levelling, and splice connection for standard roof-mount racking systems. Precise alignment ensures structural integrity and uniform module appearance.

Lesson 3 • Rooftop Safety and Fall Protection

Establishes fall protection requirements, anchor systems, and safe ladder use for rooftop work. Safety compliance is compulsory before any mechanical installation activity begins.

Lesson 4 • Roof Penetration and Flashing

Demonstrates proper lag bolt placement into rafters and waterproof flashing installation. Correct penetration technique prevents structural damage and long-term water intrusion.

Lesson 1 • DC Wiring from Modules to Inverter

Covers MC4 connector assembly, string wiring, and DC homerun routing to the inverter. Correct DC wiring prevents arc faults and ensures maximum power delivery.

Lesson 2 • AC Wiring and Panel Interconnection

Teaches AC conduit runs, breaker sizing, and load-side vs. supply-side interconnection methods. Correct panel interconnection is the final step before utility approval.

Lesson 3 • Grounding and Bonding Installation

Implements equipment grounding conductors, grounding electrode systems, and module bonding. A complete grounding system protects personnel and equipment from fault currents.

Lesson 4 • Battery Storage Wiring and Integration

Covers DC-coupled and AC-coupled battery wiring, critical load panels, and automatic transfer switches. Storage integration adds complexity requiring careful sequencing and safety precautions.

Lesson 1 • Electrical Testing Procedures

Applies multimeter and clamp meter measurements to verify string voltage, current, and continuity. Test data confirms correct wiring and establishes a performance baseline.

Lesson 2 • Pre-Energisation Inspection

Performs a systematic visual and mechanical check of all components before applying power. Catching defects before energisation prevents equipment damage and safety incidents.

Lesson 3 • Inverter Startup and Grid Synchronisation

Sequences the inverter startup procedure and verifies grid synchronisation and anti-islanding function. Successful startup confirms the system is ready for utility inspection.

Lesson 1 • Component Replacement Procedures

Demonstrates safe replacement of failed modules, inverters, and connectors under live-system conditions. Correct replacement procedures maintain safety and restore performance quickly.

Lesson 2 • Systematic Fault Diagnosis

Applies a structured diagnostic process to isolate faults in modules, wiring, inverters, and batteries. Systematic diagnosis reduces downtime and prevents misdiagnosis-related costs.

Lesson 3 • Preventive Maintenance Programmes

Defines inspection intervals, cleaning schedules, and component checks for long-term system health. Proactive maintenance maximises energy yield and extends equipment service life.

Lesson 4 • Performance Monitoring and Analysis

Uses monitoring dashboards to detect underperformance, shading changes, and equipment faults. Data-driven analysis enables targeted corrective action before significant losses occur.