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Note: This course qualifies you to take the NABCEP PV Entry Level "Certificate of Knowledge" Exam and fulfills the educational requirements for Category 'B' of NABCEP's Solar PV Installer Certification.
As the market grows for photovoltaics, students holding this industry-sponsored NABCEP PV Entry Level Certificate of Knowledge could find that their employment opportunities are enhanced by starting the job with an understanding of the basic terms and operational aspects of a PV system. However, the NABCEP Certificate of Knowledge by itself does not qualify an individual to install PV systems.
Taking the NABCEP COK exam after the completion of the course is optional. There is an additional fee for the NABCEP COK exam, and registration with NABCEP is required. Only students who complete the course and pass the NABCEP COK exam will receive the NABCEP Photovoltaic (PV) Entry Level Certificate of Knowledge.
1. Demonstrate knowledge and application of key solar electric system terms and concepts
2. Know basic safety procedures for working around solar electric systems
3. Know the basic components that make up a solar system
4. Size & design a simple photovoltaic system
1. Learn markets and applications for photovoltaic systems
2. Identify safety hazards of photovoltaic systems; identify practices and protective equipment used during photovoltaic system installation and maintenance
3. Define basic electrical terms and calculate simple circuit values
4. Define and demonstrate solar energy fundamentals
5. Learn photovoltaic module fundamentals
6. Describe purpose and operation of photovoltaic system components
7. Calculate photovoltaic system sizing
8. Understand photovoltaic system electrical design
9. Understand photovoltaic system mechanical design
10. Understand NEC code guidelines for solar systems
11. Describe photovoltaic system performance analysis and troubleshooting
Student Knowledge and Experience Assumptions: No solar industry experience is assumed. Knowledge requirements include basic math skills (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions, decimals, and percentages, use of formulas, algebra, and word problems), use of the Internet, problem solving skills, and the use of a calculator.
Required Text Provided:
1. ADVEN Solar Training Binder and Workbook.
2. Photovoltaics - Design and Installation Manual.
Methods of Instruction:
The methods of instruction include hands-on training as well as classroom instruction and home study. Labs will include experiments with solar equipment, use of meters, measurements, and a complete system install. Classroom instruction will consist of interactive lectures, class discussions, exercises, table-top experiments, PowerPoint presentations, Internet illustrations, and videos. It will be based on the assumption that you have done the reading assignments before class. Homework will include reading assignments, problem sets, and the design of solar photovoltaic systems including equipment specification.
Evaluation:
1. Class Participation
2. Lab Participation
3. Home study participation and 100 question review test completion
4. Overall Attendance (Must complete a minimum of 40 hours)
Certificate of Training:
Upon successful completion of all course requirements, the student will be given a Certificate of Training as verification of completion of the class.
Instructor Evaluations:
Instructors will be evaluated at the end of this course. Students are asked to contribute comments which shall be used in the creation of an ongoing professional development plan for the instructor.
Instructor Contact Information: Janet Hughes, Senior Solar Designer