Solar Power System Theory and Maintenance Course

Course Overview:

This course will be to gain theoretical as well as practical knowledge about the physical aspects and principles of a solar photovoltaic (PV) system including its design, modeling, integration, construction and operation.

The course encompasses the theoretical and practical ins and outs of the solar resources, type of modules, the electrical parameters, and grid system including inverters, wiring, and configuration.

Further it extends to, stand-alone systems (off grid), hybrid systems and battery parameters but on the application level in terms of their integration, designing and testing which are done through computerized programs. 

These can all be applied in real life while meeting the electrical standards as well as code requirements. People who would find this course insightful include engineers, technicians and other stakeholders within the photovoltaic ecosystem.

Course Objectives:

Upon the successful completion of this course, the participant will gain an understanding of the physical phenomena which affect the design of systems and methods by which these phenomena can be analyzed as well as the additional requirements which need to be considered informal specifications to ensure adequate and proper installations. 

Who Should Attend?

It will be most beneficial for those who are involved in the design, analysis, installation, maintenance, or ownership of Solar PV systems. Engineers, Procurement specialists, electrical power designers, maintenance technicians, electrical installation specialists, quality assurance, and manufacturing personnel involved in Power Generation & Distribution Industries will find it a time‐saving means to broaden and update their knowledge. Those who must comply with Code requirements will benefit from it.

Course Outlines:

• The solar resource
• Overview of solar technologies
• Photovoltaic basics; cells, modules and arrays
• Module types and construction, energy payback
• Electrical characteristics (practical measurements)
• Effects of all parameters
• Series/parallel connection
• Component ratings
• Array combiners, AC and DC isolators
• PV module warranties and guarantees
• Grid‐connected systems
• Module fixing; on‐roof, roof‐integrated, flat‐roof and facade
• Grid connected inverters characteristics
• Electrical Standards
• Inverter design concepts; central, single and multi‐string and module
• Planning and sizing grid‐connected systems; arrays, inverters and cables
• System configurations
• Solar system design
• Solar modules
• Solar module mounting structures & arrays
• Electrical wiring of the solar system and associated components
• Grid‐connected solar systems
• Charge controllers
• Stand‐alone system typology
• Modules for stand‐alone systems
• Battery systems and their characteristics
• Stand‐alone inverters
• Hybrid systems and inverters; AC‐ and DC‐coupled systems
• Planning and manually sizing stand‐alone systems
• Computerized sizing simulation
• Planning and sizing exercise
• Manufacturers sizing tools
• Earthling and lightning protection
• Metering
• Practical sessions
• System testing & commissioning