Florida Solar Energy Center

This week-long course covers the design and installation of photovoltaic (PV) systems, and involves actual hands-on work with PV systems and equipment. This program is intended for contractors, electricians, utilities, engineers and other practitioners, with an overall goal of developing "system-knowledgeable" professionals to help ensure the safety and quality of PV system installations.

The course format includes a balance of classroom instruction and student-interactive exercises. These exercises include hands-on and demonstration laboratories that simulate the process of designing, installing and commissioning of residential and small commercial grid-connected PV systems, and are intended to develop the participant's working knowledge of PV systems and equipment. An emphasis is placed on code compliance and accepted state-of-the-art industry design and installation practice.

Case studies that exemplify a grid-tied photovoltaic installation are presented. The case studies explored rely heavily upon the National Electrical Code and what is considered to be best practice. Attendees should be aware that some of the rules and procedures allow for varying interpretations. Additionally, local or state codes vary from site to site. As a result, the case studies represent a common interpretation of the rules and methods, but may not meet all NEC compliances and other code compliances and standards in all cases. When conducting your own installation and related activities, it is advisable to understand the local interpretation of these rules.

In addition to the course manuals provided to all participants, the following two references are recommended for this course, and are available from most local electrical supply houses and construction/technical bookstores:

1. 2008 Safety and Health Regulations for Construction (Code of Federal Regulations, Chapter 29 Part 1926) U.S. Department of Labor/OSHA, OSHA Publications, P.O. Box 37535, Washington, D.C. 20013-7535 http://www.osha.gov

2. 2008 National Electrical Code Handbook, NFPA 70, National Fire Protection Association, 1 Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269 (2008 National Electrical Code is acceptable substitute; The Handbook is recommended for its explanatory and supplementary information and worth the additional cost.) http://www.nfpa.org

Participants successfully completing this one-week course will be awarded a certificate of completion from the Florida Solar Energy Center.