Who this course is for
Electrical engineers, junior designers, project managers and people interested in solar energy
A Barad course
Solar plant fundamentals and design
Basic to intermediate6 learning sectionsThis course starts from irradiance, power and panel specifications and reaches a first system design. The project site and its goal provide the setting for the examples and calculations.
The outline on this page is a proposal; the final program is announced before registration.
Before you join
Familiarity with DC and AC circuits, power and energy; the electrical basics are reviewed before the calculation section.
What the program covers
- Reading module and inverter specifications
- Preparing a first string layout
- Setting up the document list and commissioning checks
Proposed course outline
The proposed program is laid out in six sections. Ask us about the details of the exercises and the tools you will need before you join.
01Photovoltaic generation basics+
- How irradiance and temperature affect module behavior
- Reading the I–V curve and the Voc, Isc and Pmax parameters
- The difference between rated power and the energy actually produced on site
02Understanding the system and the project site+
- Grid-connected, off-grid and hybrid systems
- Surveying the site, orientation, tilt and shading obstacles
- Reviewing irradiation data and the assumptions behind an energy estimate
03Choosing the module and the inverter+
- Reading the datasheet and the operating range of the equipment
- Matching string voltage and current to the MPPT input
- Checking Voc at minimum temperature against the inverter's limits
04String layout and first calculations+
- Determining the number of series modules and parallel strings
- Calculating the DC capacity and its ratio to the AC power
- Estimating production while stating the assumptions and the model's losses
05Cable, protection and layout+
- Criteria for choosing DC and AC cable, and voltage drop
- Understanding isolators, overcurrent protection, SPDs and earthing
- The single-line diagram and equipment layout; the responsible designer must review them
06Commissioning and handover+
- Getting to know the structure of documents and tests in IEC 62446-1
- Inspection, recording polarity and tests carried out by qualified personnel
- A plan for monitoring production, cleaning and maintaining the system
Suggested exercise
For a small hypothetical system, present the choice of module and inverter, the number of modules per string and an energy estimate in a first report with clear assumptions. The final design needs review by the responsible engineer.
Before you join
Is this outline the final program?
This page is a proposed plan for the course content. The actual outline, the way it is delivered and the details of the exercises are agreed with participants before registration.
How are the time, cost and venue set?
To get this information, submit a coordination request for this course. The date, cost, instructor and venue are announced once the program is confirmed.
Does the course include hands-on practice?
This plan proposes one practical exercise. Running it as a workshop and using equipment depends on the facilities and the final program.
