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The ultimate SOLAR ENERGY course (ONSITE EXPERIENCES) - 2024

Leandro Caruso

Welcome the The definite Solar Energy course 2024.

In this course I bring all of my knowledge in more than 10 years of experience in the renewable energy industry for you to enjoy; along with 8 years of experience as an online instructor.  As soon as you enroll it will all be about learning, getting yourself to the next level in knowledge on Solar PV Energy and having fun the process.

Read more

Welcome the The definite Solar Energy course 2024.

In this course I bring all of my knowledge in more than 10 years of experience in the renewable energy industry for you to enjoy; along with 8 years of experience as an online instructor.  As soon as you enroll it will all be about learning, getting yourself to the next level in knowledge on Solar PV Energy and having fun the process.

I have purposefully put together a well organized and step by step process for you to become an amazing Solar Designer, with real insights on the renewable energy market and lots of valuable content for you to download anywhere you want to go. 

A few take-aways from this course:

  • Concise training on how to engineer and design your own solar PV system

  • Live recording of a real Solar PV installation for Commercial purposes (no other course has this. )

  • Dozens of external resources to download

  • Never-ending updates to the course

You are most welcome to ask me any questions before or after enrolling into the course - I will be very happy to take them and work with you.

See you inside and as I told my already 26,000 students:

LET'S GO.

Leandro Caruso

Your instructor

Enroll now

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Solar photo-voltaic designs
  • The solar pv system and how does it work
  • Understanding photovoltaics (solar cells)
  • Energy needs of the property vs solar energy production
  • Peak sun hours and its’ importance
  • Sizing the solar pv system
  • Dc & ac electricity (characteristics and circuits)
  • I-v curve of solar panels
  • Overview of the grid
  • Interconnection with the grid
  • Climatologic considerations of the location of interest
  • Voltage corrections due to temperature (must do!)
  • Select the correct inverter
  • Overview of matching the solar array and inverter calculations
  • Matching the array and inverter: voltage/current/power
  • Multi-mppt inverters
  • Stringing configuration of the array/number of panels per string
  • System protection (breakers/isolators/ac/dc)
  • System efficiencies and energy yields
  • Cabling sizing
  • Show more
  • Show less

Syllabus

INTRODUCTION TO THE COURSE
Welcome Video
Course Overview
Solar Energy demystified in 5 mins!
Read more
Revising the Basics (Solar 101)
Quick disclosure! (revising the basics)
The Solar PV System and how does it work
Understanding Photovoltaics (Solar Cells)
Energy Needs of the property vs Solar Energy Production
Peak Sun Hours and its’ importance
Peak Sub Hours (WHERE TO GET THEM FROM)
Basic sizing the Solar PV system

Here you will be able to test yourself on the basics of Solar.  Feel free to send me a message if you find it struggling to complete the section.  You got this!

Electricity Principles
DC Electricity
AC Electricity (connecting to the grid)
Interconnections with the Grid (how does the PV system connects onto the Grid)

Show yourself how much you´ve learnt

Engineering of Solar Energy system (from A-Z)
Overview of a reliable Solar Design
Selection of the correct inverter
Matching the Array and Inverter: VOLTAGE
Matching the Array and Inverter: CURRENT
Matching the Array and Inverter: POWER
Climatologic considerations for your Solar Design
Voltage corrections due to Temperature (MUST DO!)
Multi-MPPT Inverters
Stringing configuration of the Array
COMPLETE EXAMPLE

Test yourself to see how much you learned in this section. 

System protection
A short break and recognition before we continue
System protection introduction
Overview of System protection - DC PROTECTION
Sizing of DC isolators (Formulas!)
DC protection PRACTICAL EXAMPLE
AC Breaker protection
Earthing your solar system
FULL EXAMPLE of system protection
CABLE SIZING
Introduction and main concepts
Current Carrying Capacity of cables (CCC)
Voltage Drops in Cables (VD)
Cable Routes and Lengths
DC and AC cable size calcs
SYSTEM EFFICIENCY AND YIELD
Energy Yield - Introduction!
Sources of efficiency loss
Energy Yield - Bringing things together
Performance Ratio
STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING
How to conduct a Structural Assessment for the roof
Walk with me onsite and I'll show you how did I manage this project. From Project planning to installation and final commissioning.

The first step is always proper planning! come check out the panel layout and program of works

Check out our SLD (Single Line Diagram) for this 99kW system

Don't forget to obtain a Structural Engineering assessment

Know everything there is to know on this live installation - ROOF SAFETY considerations

Check out how we install the racking! This one is the Sunlock C-Channel

Learn the correct technique to pass on panels onto the roof and carry them.  Avoid injuries and work safely!

This is the cable tray setup which creates the cable path for the strings of panels all the way into the inverter station

DC rooftop Isolators

Check out how we do the earthing of this system!

This is how we planned our inverter station and what to consider when doing so...

This is were we will connect our Solar System onto the MSB.  Come check it out

The grand finale! this is how it looks like at 99% completion

Most Common installation Mistakes, AVOID DOING!!
Come in and walk with me on this 30kW commercial PV system I managed on a restaurant.

Desktop analysis.

-SLD

-Roof Layout

-Stringing configuration

In this lecture I will walk you through the system overview while on the roof, and show you what details had to be taken into consideration for this installation

Kliplock roof with Sunlock rails used as mounting system. 

New Codes of practice for the roof top DC isolators! Try this method instead.

Here´s the inverter station and how we managed to install it.  What goes into the design of this station.

What´s happening at the MSB? come on in and I´ll show you what we have done at the POC (point of connection).

A screenrecording of the inverter fully online and producing great power! Solar Edge App. "Set App" in your smartphones

Learn from a veteran who has owned his Solar Company and has 10+ years of experience in the indutry

Ahmed has worked in the Solar industry for 10 years and runed his own business.  We have met working together and done multiple installs in Sydney Australia.  His knowledge is vast and in this video he is briefly teaching us how to convey a technical message to a customer.  It is always a GREAT SKILL to have, and hope you guys enjoy it.

A bunch of thank you gifts for taking and completing this course!
THANK YOU GIFTS

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Provides concise training on engineering and designing solar PV systems, which is essential for professionals in the renewable energy sector
Includes a live recording of a real solar PV installation for commercial purposes, offering practical insights not commonly found in other courses
Covers climatologic considerations and voltage corrections due to temperature, which are crucial for accurate solar PV system design and performance
Explores system protection, including breakers, isolators, and AC/DC components, which is vital for ensuring the safety and reliability of solar installations
Features insights from a veteran with 10+ years of experience in the solar industry, offering valuable real-world perspectives and practical advice
Requires learners to understand basic electricity principles, which may necessitate additional introductory coursework for some students

Save this course

Save The ultimate SOLAR ENERGY course (ONSITE EXPERIENCES) - 2024 to your list so you can find it easily later:
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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 The ultimate SOLAR ENERGY course (ONSITE EXPERIENCES) - 2024 with these activities:
Review Basic Electrical Principles
Solidify your understanding of fundamental electrical concepts before diving into solar PV system design. This will make understanding the DC and AC aspects of solar energy much easier.
Show steps
  • Review definitions of voltage, current, and resistance.
  • Practice Ohm's Law calculations.
  • Study series and parallel circuits.
Study 'Photovoltaic Systems Engineering' by Roger Messenger and Jerry Ventre
Deepen your understanding of photovoltaic systems engineering with this comprehensive guide. It covers a wide range of topics from basic principles to advanced design techniques.
View Photovoltaic Systems Engineering, Third Edition on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read the chapters on system design, installation, and maintenance.
  • Focus on the sections related to system sizing and component selection.
  • Review the case studies and examples provided in the book.
Read 'Solar Energy Engineering' by Yalei Zhang
Gain a deeper understanding of solar energy engineering principles and system design. This book provides a comprehensive overview of the field.
View Putting Knowledge to Work on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read the chapters related to PV system design and components.
  • Take notes on key concepts and formulas.
  • Work through the example problems.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Follow Online Tutorials on Solar Inverter Configuration
Gain practical experience with solar inverter configuration by following online tutorials. This will help you understand the settings and parameters involved in optimizing system performance.
Show steps
  • Find tutorials on configuring different types of solar inverters.
  • Follow the tutorials step-by-step.
  • Take notes on the key configuration parameters.
Design a Small-Scale Residential Solar PV System
Apply the knowledge gained in the course to design a solar PV system for a residential property. This hands-on project will solidify your understanding of system sizing, component selection, and grid interconnection.
Show steps
  • Determine the energy needs of a sample property.
  • Calculate peak sun hours for the location.
  • Size the solar PV system based on energy needs and sun hours.
  • Select appropriate solar panels and inverters.
  • Create a system diagram and bill of materials.
Create a Presentation on Solar PV System Installation Best Practices
Reinforce your understanding of solar PV system installation by creating a presentation. This will help you organize your knowledge and communicate it effectively to others.
Show steps
  • Research best practices for solar PV system installation.
  • Organize the information into a clear and concise presentation.
  • Include visuals such as diagrams and photos.
  • Practice delivering the presentation.
Volunteer with a Local Solar Installation Company
Gain hands-on experience with solar PV system installation by volunteering with a local company. This will provide valuable practical skills and insights into the real-world challenges of solar energy.
Show steps
  • Contact local solar installation companies to inquire about volunteer opportunities.
  • Assist with tasks such as panel mounting, wiring, and system testing.
  • Observe experienced installers and ask questions.

Career center

Learners who complete The ultimate SOLAR ENERGY course (ONSITE EXPERIENCES) - 2024 will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Solar Design Engineer
A Solar Design Engineer is responsible for the technical design of solar photovoltaic systems, including system sizing, component selection, and electrical layout. This course is an excellent fit because it focuses on the engineering and design of solar PV systems, covering topics such as solar cell technology, system sizing, and the selection of inverters. It offers a comprehensive look at voltage corrections, string configurations, and system protection. Aspiring solar design engineers will find the course useful in developing a deep understanding of the technical aspects of solar design. This course features hands-on analysis of design and implementation.
See salaries and explore the career path for Solar Design Engineer
Solar Panel Installer
A Solar Panel Installer physically mounts solar panels on various structures, often rooftops, and connects them to the electrical system. This course directly prepares individuals for this role with its detailed modules on sizing PV systems, understanding DC and AC electricity, and configuring array stringing. The live recording of a commercial solar PV installation is particularly relevant, offering real-world insights into the installation process. Someone aspiring to a career as a Solar Panel Installer would benefit from the hands on training and detailed explanations provided by this course, which covers system protection, cabling and structural assessments. This course provides a strong foundation for entering the field.
See salaries and explore the career path for Solar Panel Installer
Solar Project Developer
A Solar Project Developer identifies and develops solar energy projects from conception to completion. This course is a good fit for a project developer, as it provides an in-depth understanding of the technical aspects of solar PV systems, such as system design, component selection, and electrical layout. The course includes modules on sizing systems, matching the array and inverter, and system protection. These components of the course all build familiarity with project development. Aspiring project developers will benefit from the comprehensive approach to solar PV engineering. This can help their understanding of the technical considerations required for a well designed system.
See salaries and explore the career path for Solar Project Developer
Solar Energy Consultant
A Solar Energy Consultant advises clients on the feasibility, design, and implementation of solar energy systems. This course is helpful for anyone who wishes to become a Solar Energy Consultant. The coursework emphasizes understanding photovoltaic systems, assessing energy needs, and sizing solar PV systems. The detailed approach to inverter selection and array matching equips consultants with the analytical skills needed to propose optimal solutions to their clients. The course is a valuable asset for consultants because it encompasses a wide range of subjects, including the grid interconnection and climatological considerations, which are key to advising clients. These skills are crucial for a Solar Energy Consultant.
See salaries and explore the career path for Solar Energy Consultant
Renewable Energy Technician
A Renewable Energy Technician installs and maintains renewable energy systems like solar panels. This course is a good fit since it includes insights into practical skills involved in installing solar PV systems, including DC and AC electricity, system protection and cabling. The course goes further by showing examples of installations, including a live commercial project. The structural assessment information, along with the discussion of installation techniques, are beneficial for anyone who wants to be a Renewable Energy Technician. The practical approach provides a valuable learning experience.
See salaries and explore the career path for Renewable Energy Technician
Solar System Maintenance Technician
A Solar System Maintenance Technician is responsible for the upkeep and repair of existing solar installations. This course is a good fit because it details how a solar PV system works, its electrical components, and the correct sizing of a system. Included in the coursework is system protection and cable sizing. The practical, real-world examples from a live solar PV installation greatly aid in the understanding of how a system is put together, which is useful for maintenance and repair. This focus on practical application and technical understanding provided in the course supports those in a Maintenance Technician role.
See salaries and explore the career path for Solar System Maintenance Technician
Electrical Engineer specializing in Renewables
An Electrical Engineer specializing in Renewables works on the electrical design and integration of renewable energy systems, like solar PV installations. This course thoroughly covers the electrical concepts, including DC and AC circuits, and grid interconnection. The course dives deep into topics such as matching the solar array and inverter, voltage corrections due to temperature, and system protection. Aspiring electrical engineers will find the engineering focused content, and its integration with solar energy, to be a strong fit for this career path.
See salaries and explore the career path for Electrical Engineer specializing in Renewables
Renewable Energy Project Manager
A Renewable Energy Project Manager oversees the planning, execution, and completion of renewable energy projects, often focusing on solar installations. This course may be useful for aspiring project managers as it covers the engineering of solar energy systems and design. The inclusion of a live commercial installation recording provides a valuable real-world context for project management. Project management requires a solid grasp of the process from conception all the way through to implementation. The course also prepares students with knowledge of structural assessments and system protection, which are critical for project managers to understand.
See salaries and explore the career path for Renewable Energy Project Manager
Energy Auditor
An Energy Auditor evaluates the energy consumption of buildings and suggests solutions to improve efficiency, which often includes the implementation of solar panels. The course material helps a future energy auditor understand solar PV systems. The sections on energy needs of a property compared to solar production and correctly sizing the system are particularly relevant. This course may be useful for those interested in the field of renewable energy audits, offering a foundational understanding of solar energy production and implementation to complement skills in energy conservation and audit.
See salaries and explore the career path for Energy Auditor
Solar System Quality Control Inspector
A Solar System Quality Control Inspector ensures that solar PV installations meet safety standards and performance requirements. This course may be useful for inspectors because it includes detailed information on solar system design, installation, and system protection. A Quality Control Inspector would gain a deeper understanding of the technical aspects of solar installations, from the selection of the inverter to the correct cable sizing. The thorough overview of system components and installations, including a live commercial project, is valuable for someone focused on quality control and compliance.
See salaries and explore the career path for Solar System Quality Control Inspector
Solar Energy Trainer
A Solar Energy Trainer educates and trains individuals in the principles and practices of solar energy installation and system design. This course may be useful for a trainer, offering a comprehensive overview of solar PV systems, from basic principles to advanced engineering design. The instructor's experience in both the industry and online teaching, combined with content on real-world solar PV installation for commercial purposes, provides a solid platform for someone who wishes to train others. The course would enable trainers to present accurate and detailed information, especially around topics such as voltage corrections, inverter selection and system sizing.
See salaries and explore the career path for Solar Energy Trainer
Solar Energy Sales Representative
A Solar Energy Sales Representative sells solar PV systems to residential or commercial clients. This course may be useful for a sales representative's understanding of the technology and its implementation. The course material provides a foundational understanding of how solar systems work, enabling them to better discuss the product's features and benefits. An understanding of topics such as peak sun hours, system sizing, and grid interconnection helps the sales representative articulate the advantages to prospective clients. This course builds a bridge between technical understanding and effective sales communication.
See salaries and explore the career path for Solar Energy Sales Representative
Sustainability Specialist
A Sustainability Specialist develops and implements strategies to promote environmentally friendly practices, which includes incorporating renewable energy sources like solar. This course may be useful for a sustainability specialist, as it provides a foundational understanding of solar energy systems. The sections on the PV system, how it works, and the real-world commercial installation recording are helpful for understanding the technical aspects of solar energy implementation. They can then more effectively integrate solar into sustainability plans. This course helps a Sustainability Specialist understand the process of designing and implementing solar energy solutions.
See salaries and explore the career path for Sustainability Specialist
Renewable Energy Advocate
A Renewable Energy Advocate promotes the adoption of renewable energy technologies like solar power through policy, education, or community engagement. This course may be useful for someone in the advocacy field. The course material provides an understanding of the technology, design, and implementation of solar PV systems. This knowledge helps an advocate to effectively communicate the technological benefits and practical aspects of solar energy. The comprehensive approach to solar PV engineering helps create a well rounded view of the technology. An advocate may utilize this course to establish credibility and promote solar solutions.
See salaries and explore the career path for Renewable Energy Advocate
Solar Energy Research Analyst
A Solar Energy Research Analyst studies trends, technologies, and policies related to solar energy, often requiring an advanced degree. This course helps build a foundational understanding of solar photovoltaic technologies, with a focus on system design and installation. The course covers concepts, such as photovoltaics, sizing systems, and grid integration, and provides a base of technical knowledge, which may be useful. The analyst may find the practical aspects of the course, such as the live commercial install, as a helpful perspective to ground theoretical research.
See salaries and explore the career path for Solar Energy Research Analyst

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 The ultimate SOLAR ENERGY course (ONSITE EXPERIENCES) - 2024.
Cover image
Photovoltaic Systems Engineering, Third Edition
Save
Comprehensive guide to photovoltaic systems engineering, covering everything from basic principles to advanced design and installation techniques. It is widely used as a textbook in academic institutions and by industry professionals. It provides in-depth coverage of topics such as system sizing, component selection, and performance analysis. This book will add significant depth to the course material and is highly recommended for those seeking a thorough understanding of PV systems.
Photovoltaic Systems Engineering, Third Edition
Paperback
Check
Photovoltaic Systems Engineering, Third Edition
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Putting Knowledge to Work
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of solar energy engineering, covering topics from fundamental principles to system design and applications. It delves into the specifics of solar PV systems, including cell technology, inverter selection, and system performance analysis. It valuable resource for understanding the engineering aspects of solar energy and can serve as a reference throughout the course. While not required, it offers additional depth on many topics covered.
Putting Knowledge to Work
Paperback
Check
Putting Knowledge to Work
Kindle Edition
Check

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Effort
5.5 total hours
Via
Udemy
Instructor
Leandro Caruso
Language
English
Good to know
Provides concise training on engineering and designing solar PV systems, which is essential for professionals in the renewable energy sector
Includes a live recording of a real solar PV installation for commercial purposes, offering practical insights not commonly found in other courses
Covers climatologic considerations and voltage corrections due to temperature, which are crucial for accurate solar PV system design and performance
Explores system protection, including breakers, isolators, and AC/DC components, which is vital for ensuring the safety and reliability of solar installations
Features insights from a veteran with 10+ years of experience in the solar industry, offering valuable real-world perspectives and practical advice
Requires learners to understand basic electricity principles, which may necessitate additional introductory coursework for some students
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