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Engr. Ahmed Mahdy

"Complete Solar Energy Design Course From Zero To Hero"

This is the only course out there with everything you need to know about solar energy from A to Z.

This course starts with the basic concepts of solar energy to the level you will become a professional in solar energy systems design.

Throughout the course, you will learn:

Read more

"Complete Solar Energy Design Course From Zero To Hero"

This is the only course out there with everything you need to know about solar energy from A to Z.

This course starts with the basic concepts of solar energy to the level you will become a professional in solar energy systems design.

Throughout the course, you will learn:

  • The fundamentals of solar energy

  • Components and design of on-grid and off-grid solar systems

  • Design of hybrid PV systems

  • Types and selection of solar modules

  • Types of charge controllers and their selection techniques

  • Types and selection of different solar inverters

  • Selection of suitable tilt angle and shading effect in PV systems

  • Types and selection of batteries in solar energy systems

  • Design and components of the solar water pumping system

  • Design of grounding or earthing system

  • Design of single line diagram of the PV system using the Autocad

  • Design of on and off-grid PV systems using the PVSyst program.

  • Design of protection of PV system

After Taking This Course, You Will Be Able To

  1. Understand everything about solar energy systems, such as construction and selecting components such as solar panels, charge controllers, inverters, batteries, and busbars.

  2. Design different solar energy systems such as off-grid, on-grid, and solar water pumping systems.

  3. You will learn how to design protection and earthing system for solar energy systems.

You would be able to apply for jobs in the solar energy field as you will have all the knowledge you need to work in the field.

Bonus Gift:

You will find also the slides for the Ultimate Solar Energy Course for those who are interested in them or having them as a revision for themselves

  • More than 300 Pages of Solar Energy Course Slides.

Take this course if you've been looking for

Enroll now

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Understand how pv cells work
  • Learn the difference between parallel and series connection of pv cells
  • Understand the advantages and disadvantages of pv cells
  • Understand difference between solar cells, modules and arrays
  • Learn about the different types of solar cells and their efficiency
  • Understand the effect of temperature and insolation on power
  • Learn about different methods of charge controllers
  • Learn about half cell technology in pv system
  • Understand the grid connected system , its components ,advantages and disadvantages
  • Understand the off grid system , its components ,advantages and disadvantages
  • Learn how to determine pv array maximum system voltage
  • Understand the junction box
  • Learn how to wire the junction box
  • Learn how to size your pv system
  • Learn how to determine power consumption demands
  • Learn how to size the pv modules
  • Learn how to size your inverter
  • Understand how to size your battery
  • Understand how to size your solar charge controller
  • Learn how to size your mppt charge controller
  • Learn about protection of pv system
  • Understand how to select fuses to protect strings
  • Learn the protection of arrays
  • Understand difference between 3 busbars and 5 busbars
  • Select the ac busbar and dc busbar
  • Understand the protection devices for transformer
  • Understand the inverter protection
  • Learn the grounding of pv system and solar kit
  • Understand the surge protection device
  • Learn on grid system design by hand calculations.
  • Understand how to design on grid system by pvsyst program.
  • Understand how to design off grid system by pvsyst program.
  • Design an off grid system
  • Learn about construction and types of batteries
  • Learn how to charge of lead acid batteries and hydrometer usage
  • Learn the maintenance of batteries and methods of charging
  • Understand cycle of batteries
  • Understand the importance of charge controller
  • Select and understand datasheet of the panel
  • How to select inverter
  • Calculate pv energy according to area
  • Understand shading and tilt angle
  • Learn mounting of pv system
  • Show more
  • Show less

Syllabus

Solar Energy Panels
Introduction to PV System
Types of Busbars and Solar Cells
V-I Characteristics of a PV Panel
Read more
Different Connections of Solar Panels
Shading and Half Cut Cells
Mounting and Tilt Angle of a PV Panel
Calculation of the Tilt Angle in a Location
Practical Tilt Angle during Different Seasons
Orientation and Azimuth Angle of Solar Panels
Sun Chart and Distance between PV Rows
Important Note Regarding the Sun Chart
Panel Parameters and Measurements
Junction Box in PV Panels
Solar Wires and Cables Installation Process
PV String Maximum Voltage
Important Definitions in the Global Solar Atlas
Global Solar Atlas PV Simulation
Hybrid Photovoltaic Thermal Panel (PVT)
Course Files + PDF Slides
Types and Components of PV Systems
Off-Grid, On-Grid, and Hybrid PV Systems
Batteries in PV System
Introduction to Batteries
Practical Recommendation of Battery System Voltage
Components of 24V and 48V PV Systems
Battery Capacity and C-Rate
C10, C20, and C100 Batteries
Battery Connections
Cycle of a Battery and DoD
Deep Cycle Batteries and Car Batteries
Specific Energy and Specific Density of a Battery
Self Discharge of a Battery
Shelf Life, Cycle Life, and Calendar Life of a Battery
Lead Acid Batteries
Maintenance of Flooded Lead Acid Batteries
Lithium Batteries
Nickel Batteries
Flow Batteries
Cost of Batteries
Battery Balancer
Lead Acid Battery and Lithium-Ion Charging Cycle
Datasheet of a Solar Battery
Small Correction in Datasheet
Charge Controllers in PV System
Introduction to Charge Controllers
PWM Charge Controllers
MPPT Charge Controllers
Inverters in PV System
Function, Types, and Datasheet of Inverter
Design of an Off-Grid Solar Energy System
Example 1 on Design of an Off-Grid PV System
Helpful Notes Regarding Example 1
Example 2 Design of an Off Grid System
Helpful Notes Regarding Example 2
Protection of a Solar Energy System
Overcurrent Protection Guide
Example on String and Array Protection
PV Combiner Box
Selection of Fuses and Cables for Example 1 - Off Grid
Selection of Fuses and Cables for Example 2 - Off Grid
Off-Grid System Design Using PVSyst + 3D Shading Analysis
Design an Off-Grid System Using PVSyst
Notes about the Off-Grid Example
3D Shading Analysis in PVSyst for Off-Grid System
Important Note
Design of a Hybrid PV System
Example on Design of a Hybrid PV System
Helpful Notes Regarding Hybrid Design
Design of an On-Grid Solar System
PV Energy According to Area in Solar Energy System
Design of a PV System Using PVsyst Program
Design of an On Grid Solar Energy System Using PVSyst Program

This lesson is from our YouTube channel "Khadija Academy"

Solar Water Pumping System
Introduction to Water Pumping System and Steps of Design
Solved Example on Solar Pumping System Design
Design of a PV System Using Excel File
Design of Off-Grid PV System Using Excel Sheet
Basics of Autocad and Single Line Diagram of PV System
Starting Autocad and Changing Background
Mouse Commands and Selection Methods
Drawing a Line
Drawing a Rectangle
Drawing a Circle
Drawing a Polygon
Drawing a Polyline
Drawing an Arc and an Elipse
Drawing a Point and Construction Lines
Hatch and Rotate
Trim and Extend Commands
Adding Text to Autocad
Copy and Erase Commands
Block and Explode Commands
Insert, Scale, and Mirror Commands
Move and Align Commands
Join, Offset, and Break Commands
Divide, Fillet, and Chamfer Commands

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Covers the fundamentals of solar energy and progresses to professional-level system design, making it suitable for individuals with varying levels of experience
Includes design considerations for on-grid, off-grid, and hybrid PV systems, offering a comprehensive understanding of various solar energy applications
Teaches the use of AutoCAD for designing single-line diagrams, which is a practical skill for creating professional documentation
Employs PVSyst for designing on-grid and off-grid PV systems, which is an industry-standard software for simulating and optimizing solar energy projects
Includes a bonus of over 300 pages of solar energy course slides, which can serve as a valuable resource for review and reference
Requires learners to use AutoCAD and PVsyst, which may require a separate license or subscription fee to use the software fully

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Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Complete Solar Energy PV Design Course From Zero To Hero with these activities:
Review Electrical Circuit Fundamentals
Reinforce your understanding of basic electrical circuit concepts. A solid grasp of these fundamentals is crucial for understanding how solar panels and inverters interact within a PV system.
Browse courses on Kirchhoff's Laws
Show steps
  • Review notes and textbooks on basic circuit theory.
  • Work through practice problems involving series and parallel circuits.
  • Simulate simple circuits using online tools or software.
Calculate Tilt Angle for Different Locations
Improve your ability to determine the optimal tilt angle for solar panels in various locations. This skill is crucial for maximizing energy production.
Show steps
  • Find the latitude of several different locations around the world.
  • Use the formulas provided in the course to calculate the optimal tilt angle for each location.
  • Compare your calculations with online tilt angle calculators.
Read 'Solar Energy Engineering: Processes and Systems'
Gain a deeper understanding of the engineering principles behind solar energy systems. This book provides a comprehensive overview of the field.
Show steps
  • Read the chapters related to PV system design and components.
  • Take notes on key concepts and formulas.
  • Work through the example problems provided in the book.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Follow PVSyst Tutorials for On-Grid System Design
Master PVSyst software by following online tutorials for designing on-grid PV systems. This will provide hands-on experience with industry-standard design tools.
Show steps
  • Find reputable PVSyst tutorials online (e.g., on YouTube or the PVSyst website).
  • Follow the tutorials step-by-step, replicating the design process.
  • Experiment with different parameters and settings to understand their impact.
Develop a PV System Single-Line Diagram using AutoCAD
Practice your AutoCAD skills by creating a professional single-line diagram for a PV system. This will enhance your ability to communicate system designs effectively.
Show steps
  • Review the AutoCAD lessons in the course.
  • Gather the necessary symbols and components for a PV system diagram.
  • Create a detailed single-line diagram using AutoCAD.
  • Label all components and connections clearly.
Design a Small-Scale Off-Grid PV System
Apply your knowledge by designing a complete off-grid PV system for a small application. This project will solidify your understanding of component selection, sizing, and system integration.
Show steps
  • Determine the energy needs of the application (e.g., a small cabin).
  • Select appropriate PV modules, batteries, and inverters.
  • Size the components based on the energy needs and system voltage.
  • Create a system diagram and bill of materials.
Study 'Photovoltaic Systems Engineering'
Deepen your understanding of PV system engineering principles. This book provides a detailed and practical guide to the field.
Show steps
  • Focus on chapters related to system sizing, component selection, and performance modeling.
  • Review the case studies and examples provided in the book.
  • Compare the book's recommendations with the course materials.

Career center

Learners who complete Complete Solar Energy PV Design Course From Zero To Hero will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Solar Energy System Designer
A solar energy system designer creates plans for photovoltaic systems, determining the best layouts and components for specific energy needs and locations. This course helps build a foundation in the fundamentals of solar energy, including the design of on-grid, off-grid, and hybrid systems. It provides practical skills in selecting solar modules, charge controllers, inverters, and batteries, which are critical for a solar energy system designer. Furthermore the course teaches the crucial aspects of system protection, grounding, and the use of software for design, all essential skills for a solar energy system designer.
Solar System Maintenance Technician
A solar system maintenance technician ensures the ongoing performance and reliability of solar energy installations through routine checks and repairs. This course provides a strong foundation in solar energy, focusing on system components, design, and maintenance which are very useful for this career. A maintenance technician will benefit from the course's detailed coverage of system components such as solar modules, charge controllers, inverters, and batteries. The course may also be helpful in understanding wiring and grounding systems, which can assist in troubleshooting issues.
PV System Installer
A PV system installer physically installs solar panels and related equipment, ensuring proper functionality and safety. This course will help one gain a deep understanding of solar energy systems, including the selection and connections of panels, charge controllers, inverters, and batteries. The course dives into the practical aspects covered such as wiring junction boxes, selecting tilt angles, and mounting systems. A PV system installer will find the course's focus on system protection and grounding especially useful, as it is crucial for safe and effective installations.
Renewable Energy Technician
A renewable energy technician installs, maintains, and repairs renewable energy systems, often with a focus on solar power. This course provides a solid grounding in the fundamentals of solar energy, which is essential for a technician. The course dives into the practical aspects of system design and component selection, such as solar panels, charge controllers, and inverters. A technician will find the course material on wiring junction boxes, protection systems, and system grounding very useful for ensuring the reliable operation of solar systems.
Solar Sales Engineer
A solar sales engineer works with clients to design and sell solar energy solutions, often requiring a detailed technical understanding. This course provides crucial technical know-how needed to specify components and design systems to meet client needs. A solar sales engineer will benefit from the course's modules on system design, component selection, and software tools for system design. Understanding of different types of systems, such as on-grid and off-grid, helps the sales engineer choose the most appropriate technology.
Electrical Engineer
An electrical engineer designs, develops, and tests electrical equipment, and they may specialize in renewable energy systems. This course helps an electrical engineer understand the specifics of solar energy systems, including the design of various system types, from on-grid to off-grid and hybrid systems. The material on the selection of key components like solar modules, charge controllers, and inverters is relevant for practical design work. Understanding protection systems for PV systems covered in the course is also useful for electrical engineers working in this domain.
Solar Energy Educator
A solar energy educator teaches others about solar energy principles, technology, and applications. The comprehensive nature of this course, covering everything from the fundamentals to system design and protection, makes it an ideal educational foundation. A solar energy educator will find the course material useful when designing curriculum or teaching about the different types of solar systems—on-grid, off-grid, and hybrid. The practical design aspects and software knowledge taught in this class will also be helpful.
Renewable Energy Consultant
A renewable energy consultant advises clients on the feasibility and implementation of renewable energy projects, often specializing in solar power. This course may be useful as it provides a comprehensive overview of solar energy systems, including their design, components, and practical considerations. A consultant will find course modules on system design, component selection, and system protection particularly valuable to provide technically sound advice. Moreover, learning to evaluate different system types, such as on-grid, off-grid, and hybrid systems is highly relevant to the work of a renewable energy consultant.
Solar Project Manager
A solar project manager oversees the planning, execution, and completion of solar energy projects. This course may be useful as it equips one with a solid grounding in the technical aspects of solar energy, including system design and component selection. A project manager benefits from the ability to understand system sizing, protection, and design using software as taught in this course. The knowledge gained about different system types such as off-grid, on-grid, and hybrid PV systems will be relevant to the work of a project manager who must understand the needs of different projects.
Energy Efficiency Specialist
An energy efficiency specialist evaluates and improves the energy performance of buildings and systems, often by integrating renewable energy solutions. This course may be useful as it offers a detailed overview of solar energy systems, their design, and key components. An energy efficiency specialist will benefit from the ability to understand how to integrate solar into broader efficiency strategies. The course's coverage of different system types including on-grid and off-grid systems will be helpful in the assessment of diverse projects.
Energy Analyst
An energy analyst examines energy consumption patterns and recommends solutions to optimize usage and efficiency, often with a focus on renewable energy. This course may be useful as it provides a background in the fundamentals of solar energy technology, including how different components such as solar panels, charge controllers, and inverters function and interact. An energy analyst will find the course's overview of different system design, including on-grid, off-grid, and hybrid systems particularly useful when assessing the potential of different projects. The understanding of system sizing also helps in forecasting energy generation.
Sustainability Specialist
A sustainability specialist develops and implements strategies to reduce environmental impact. This course may be useful as it delves deeply into solar power technologies, including system design and component selection, which are crucial for implementing renewable energy solutions. The discussion of on-grid, off-grid, and hybrid PV systems provides a broad understanding of solar applications. Learning about aspects like system sizing and protection allows a sustainability specialist to understand the practicalities of solar power.
Solar Panel Manufacturing Technician
A solar panel manufacturing technician assembles, tests, and maintains equipment used in the production of solar panels. This course may be helpful as it teaches about the workings of solar modules, their components, and the technology behind different types of cells. This course includes a review of PV system protection, which may be relevant to the production process. While this course focuses on system design, knowledge about modules and their interaction in a system may be useful in manufacturing.
Building Inspector
A building inspector examines buildings and structures for compliance with codes and regulations, which may include solar installations. This course may be useful as it provides an understanding of solar energy systems, including the design, components, and safety measures. The material on grounding, wiring, and protection of PV systems would help a building inspector ensure that solar installations are safe and compliant. The course may also increase a building inspector's understanding of codes and standards for PV systems.
Research Scientist
A research scientist in the field of solar energy conducts experiments and contributes to the development of new technologies and materials. This course may be useful as it offers an introduction to the fundamental principles of solar energy systems and their components. The information on different types of solar cells, modules, and the overall system design may be helpful for a research scientist. The course also touches on the practical aspects and the software tools for system design.

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Complete Solar Energy PV Design Course From Zero To Hero.
Provides a comprehensive overview of solar energy technologies, including PV systems. It covers the fundamental principles, design considerations, and practical applications of solar energy. This book is particularly useful for understanding the engineering aspects of solar energy systems. It is commonly used as a textbook in solar energy courses.
Comprehensive guide to the design, installation, and operation of photovoltaic systems. It covers a wide range of topics, including system components, performance analysis, and economic considerations. This book valuable reference for anyone working in the solar energy industry. It is commonly used by industry professionals.

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