Solar Energy Basics from Coursera

What's inside

Syllabus

Introduction to solar power systems

Welcome! This first module will give you an introduction to the various forms of energy available to us on the Earth and how solar power fits into the overall mix. It will also introduce you to the various parts that go into that solar panel system you see on a house or other building, both the obvious parts and the less obvious pieces. Lastly, you'll learn how to calculate the efficiency of a solar panel as it takes in light energy from the sun and converts it to electricity.

Determining energy needs and sizing a PV system

Before you design a PV system for a home or commercial building, you need to know how much energy is being used at that location. That energy need helps you determine the size requirements of a PV system to meet that energy need. You also need to know how much energy can be produced by a PV system, because it varies based on the amount of sunlight available. In this week's module you will learn how to differentiate and calculate power and energy for both energy consuming appliances and energy producing photovoltaics, and then apply those concepts and calculations to assessing energy needs and energy production potential at a site.

The growth of photovoltaic markets

Photovoltaics is a growth industry. In this module you will be learning about the historical development of photovoltaics, the current trends, and some of the future forecasts of the market both globally and with a little bit of a closer look at the United States. Finally, you'll be learning about the segmentation of photovoltaics into different applications beyond just solar panels on a house or a solar farm.

Infrastructure of Photovoltaics

The field of photovoltaics engages many people filling many different roles. In this module you will learn about the different stakeholders and job opportunities in PV. You'll also learn about some different certifications available to those already working in the photovoltaics industry and for those interested in joining the field. You'll also learn about the different financial models associated with PV systems that underpin the implementation of on-grid PV systems. When you finish this module I would recommend at least starting your work on the capstone project rather than waiting until the following week.

Basics of Solar Power Capstone

In the capstone project you will be applying some of key skills you have learned so far in this specialization. You will need to evaluate a site's location, calculate it's energy consumption and try to reduce it's load, and then design a solar array capable of meeting it's total energy load using data from commercial modules and using a simplified assumption about system efficiency as we have been doing in this course.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Builds a foundation in solar power systems for beginners

Explores the core components and their functions in solar photovoltaic (PV) systems

Assesses energy needs through calculations and load reduction strategies

Includes a capstone project for practical application of acquired knowledge

Taught by Neal Abrams, a Solar Instructor at the University of New Mexico

Focuses on the fundamentals of solar power installations

Examines different types of solar power pricing models and regulatory considerations

Reviews summary

Solar energy foundation

Learners say this course is largely positive and provides a great overview of solar energy basics. It covers topics like: lectures, readings, quizzes, homework assignments, instructors, deadlines, and certificates. Notably, the course offers engaging assignments, well organized class, practical information, excellent teaching method. The course received significant praise for its focus on:

The course is great for beginners who are new to solar energy.

"Good course !!!, it ligthed my path in this solar energy road."

"This one is indispensable for the learners who wants to be professional in solar energy basics to advance level."

The course is up-to-date and covers the latest developments in solar energy.

"An excellent course and I benefited a lot from it and I would like to thank everyone who organized it"

The course provides a good amount of technical depth.

"Very good course if you want to learn the basic of solar energy and the opoertunities in the market that this have. "

The course is well-paced and easy to follow.

"Excellent course with valuable information and clarification with smoot instrocture explanoations and quizes"

The instructor is very knowledgeable and experienced.

"An excellent course to start learning about renewable energy, specifically solar power plants."

The course is very comprehensive and covers a wide range of topics.

"Very good basics course for beginner or those who wanted to understand solar energy."

"Very great and useful practical information."

"gained knowledge on solar panels and installation and calculations involved."

"Superb course. I just loved it and will recommend whoever wants to learn the basics of this course."

"Excellent course and very educational. Felt like I was actually completed a college course."

The course is very engaging and keeps you interested throughout.

"very simple and elegant explanation and good material , its a good start for all engineers "

The course is very helpful and provides a lot of good information.

"I love this course!"

"It is informative and practical if you want to know everything related to photovoltaics."

The instructor is very clear and the information is very pertinent to the overall industry.

"The teacher is very clear and the information is very pertinent to the overall industry. "

Well organized class that gives a great overview of all aspects of the solar panel industry.

"Well organized class that gives a great overview of all aspects of the solar panel industry."

The course is very informative and provides a comprehensive overview of solar energy basics.

"Truly knowledgeable course."

"It is great course."

"Very good course."

"This course helped me a lot to get a good understanding of the basics of solar energy. "

"It is very practical oriented course."

"Was really useful especially for upcoming electrical engineers."

The course is very technical and difficult to understand.

"it's an average course with low level contents , so i do not recommend in case you are looking for it to learn in depth"

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 Solar Energy Basics with these activities:

Review your basic algebra

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Reviewing your basic algebra will help you understand the electrical formulas used to calculate the demand of a building.

Browse courses on Algebra

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Review the order of operations
Practice solving linear equations
Practice solving quadratic equations

Read 'Solar Power Your Home for Dummies' by Rik DeGunther

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Gain insights into solar power systems by reading a comprehensive guidebook, complementing your understanding of the course materials and expanding your knowledge.

View Solar Power Your Home For Dummies on Amazon

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Read the book, focusing on chapters relevant to the course content.
Take notes and highlight important concepts.
Discuss the book's insights with classmates or online forums.

Learn to Calculate Energy Needs and Size a Solar PV System

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Engage in guided tutorials to gain hands-on experience in calculating energy needs and sizing solar PV systems, enhancing your understanding of system design.

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Find a step-by-step tutorial on calculating energy needs for a building.
Use an online tool or spreadsheet to practice calculating energy needs.
Follow a tutorial on sizing a solar PV system based on energy needs.
Design a hypothetical solar PV system for a small building using the knowledge acquired.

Show all three activities

Career center

Learners who complete Solar Energy Basics will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Solar Salesperson

Solar Salespeople sell solar energy systems to businesses and individuals. They educate customers about the benefits of solar energy and help them to understand how solar systems can meet their specific needs. They also work to overcome objections and close sales. The course “Solar Energy Basics” provides a strong foundation in solar energy, including topics such as solar energy systems, energy needs and PV system sizing, and the growth of photovoltaic markets. This knowledge is essential for Solar Salespeople to be able to effectively sell solar energy systems.

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Solar PV Designer

Solar PV Designers design and engineer solar photovoltaic systems for residential, commercial, and industrial applications. They work with clients to determine their energy needs and design systems that meet those needs while also being cost-effective and aesthetically pleasing. The course “Solar Energy Basics” provides a strong foundation in solar energy, including topics such as solar energy systems, energy needs and PV system sizing, and the growth of photovoltaic markets. This knowledge is essential for Solar PV Designers to be able to design and engineer effective solar PV systems.

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Solar Panel Installer

Solar Panel Installers play a vital role in helping to meet the growing demand for renewable energy. They are responsible for the installation and maintenance of solar panels, which can be a challenging job that requires knowledge of electrical systems and a strong understanding of solar energy. The course “Solar Energy Basics” offers a solid foundation in these areas, providing learners with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in this rewarding career. The course covers topics such as solar energy systems, energy needs and PV system sizing, and the growth of photovoltaic markets, all of which are essential for Solar Panel Installers to understand.

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Renewable Energy Engineer

Renewable Energy Engineers design, develop, and implement renewable energy systems, such as solar panels, wind turbines, and geothermal systems. They work to improve the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of these systems, and to make them more accessible to consumers. The course “Solar Energy Basics” provides a strong foundation in solar energy, including topics such as solar energy systems, energy needs and PV system sizing, and the growth of photovoltaic markets. This knowledge is essential for Renewable Energy Engineers to be able to design and develop effective solar energy systems.

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Solar Energy Consultant

Solar Energy Consultants help businesses and individuals understand the benefits of solar energy and how to make the switch to solar. They provide advice on solar panel installation, energy efficiency, and financial incentives, and can help customers design and implement solar energy systems that meet their specific needs. The course “Solar Energy Basics” provides a strong foundation in solar energy, including topics such as solar energy systems, energy needs and PV system sizing, and the growth of photovoltaic markets. This knowledge is essential for Solar Energy Consultants to be able to provide accurate and informed advice to their clients.

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Solar Project Manager

Solar Project Managers oversee the development and implementation of solar energy projects. They work with clients, contractors, and other stakeholders to ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget. They also track the progress of projects and make sure that they are meeting their environmental and financial goals. The course “Solar Energy Basics” provides a strong foundation in solar energy, including topics such as solar energy systems, energy needs and PV system sizing, and the growth of photovoltaic markets. This knowledge is essential for Solar Project Managers to be able to effectively manage solar energy projects.

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Energy Auditor

Energy Auditors assess the energy efficiency of buildings and make recommendations for improvements. They also help clients to understand their energy bills and identify ways to save money. The course “Solar Energy Basics” provides a strong foundation in solar energy, including topics such as solar energy systems, energy needs and PV system sizing, and the growth of photovoltaic markets. This knowledge is essential for Energy Auditors to be able to assess the energy efficiency of buildings and make recommendations for solar energy improvements.

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Sustainability Manager

Sustainability Managers develop and implement sustainability programs for businesses and organizations. They work to reduce environmental impact, improve energy efficiency, and promote social responsibility. They also track the progress of sustainability goals and report on results. The course “Solar Energy Basics” provides a strong foundation in solar energy, including topics such as solar energy systems, energy needs and PV system sizing, and the growth of photovoltaic markets. This knowledge is essential for Sustainability Managers to be able to develop and implement effective sustainability programs.

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Environmental Consultant

Environmental Consultants help businesses and organizations to understand and comply with environmental regulations. They also develop and implement environmental management systems and provide advice on environmental best practices. The course “Solar Energy Basics” provides a strong foundation in solar energy, including topics such as solar energy systems, energy needs and PV system sizing, and the growth of photovoltaic markets. This knowledge is essential for Environmental Consultants to be able to advise clients on solar energy and other renewable energy options.

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Building Performance Engineer

Building Performance Engineers design and implement energy-efficient building systems. They also work to improve the indoor air quality and comfort of buildings. The course “Solar Energy Basics” provides a strong foundation in solar energy, including topics such as solar energy systems, energy needs and PV system sizing, and the growth of photovoltaic markets. This knowledge is essential for Building Performance Engineers to be able to design and implement energy-efficient building systems that incorporate solar energy.

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Mechanical Engineer

Mechanical Engineers design and develop mechanical systems, including solar panels, wind turbines, and geothermal systems. They also work to improve the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of these systems. The course “Solar Energy Basics” provides a strong foundation in solar energy, including topics such as solar energy systems, energy needs and PV system sizing, and the growth of photovoltaic markets. This knowledge is essential for Mechanical Engineers to be able to design and develop effective solar energy systems.

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Electrical Engineer

Electrical Engineers design, develop, and maintain electrical systems. They work in a variety of industries, including solar energy, power generation, and telecommunications. The course “Solar Energy Basics” provides a strong foundation in solar energy, including topics such as solar energy systems, energy needs and PV system sizing, and the growth of photovoltaic markets. This knowledge is essential for Electrical Engineers to be able to design and develop electrical systems for solar energy applications.

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Construction Manager

Construction Managers oversee the construction of buildings and other structures. They work with architects, engineers, and contractors to ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget. The course “Solar Energy Basics” provides a strong foundation in solar energy, including topics such as solar energy systems, energy needs and PV system sizing, and the growth of photovoltaic markets. This knowledge is essential for Construction Managers to be able to oversee the construction of buildings and other structures that incorporate solar energy.

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Architect

Architects design and plan buildings. They work closely with clients to determine their needs and design buildings that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The course “Solar Energy Basics” provides a strong foundation in solar energy, including topics such as solar energy systems, energy needs and PV system sizing, and the growth of photovoltaic markets. This knowledge is essential for Architects to be able to design buildings that incorporate solar energy.

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Civil Engineer

Civil Engineers design and construct buildings, bridges, and other structures. They also work to improve the safety and durability of these structures. The course “Solar Energy Basics” provides a strong foundation in solar energy, including topics such as solar energy systems, energy needs and PV system sizing, and the growth of photovoltaic markets. This knowledge is essential for Civil Engineers to be able to design and construct buildings and other structures that incorporate solar energy.

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