BC's Indigenous Public Post-Secondary Institute

RNET-270 - Photovoltaic Systems - 5.00 Credits

RNET-270 - Photovoltaic Systems - 5.00 Credits

Course Details
This course covers the comprehensive knowledge required to site, design and install photovoltaic (PV) systems. The course includes assessment techniques for sizing systems for both grid-connected and off-grid PV systems. Coverage will include the analysis of the solar resource, the problems associated with shading and what is the best orientation and tilt for PV arrays. Further discussion will continue surrounding the sizing, configuration and design of systems to serve a given electrical load. An emphasis will be placed on system specifications, mounting styles and equipment selection including parts lists, electrical and mechanical design, schematics and related documentation.
Part of the:
  • CAREER TRAINING (ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES) Department
  • Available/Required in the following Programs:
  • Renewable Energies Technology Diploma Program - Diploma Completion Plan
  • Prerequisites : RNET Program Admission
    Corequisites : RNET-271 , RNET Program Admission
    Course Outline
    Instructors Qualifications: Relevant Master’s Degree and at least 5 years relevant experience
    Office Hours: 1.5 per week
    Contact Hours: 72
    Student Evaluation
    Procedure:
    Assignments 50-70%, Final 30-50%, Total 100%. Grading procedures follow NVIT policy.
    Learning Outcomes:

    Upon successful completion of this course students should be able to:



    • trace the development of Solar technology and list the advantages and disadvantages of Photovoltaic power systems;

    • describe the process of electrical power distribution and how PV systems fit into existing and emerging distribution systems;

    • describe the different levels of the PV industry and how they interact with each other;

    • describe how solar energy can be harnessed through chemical processes;

    • understand the purposes of the major components in PV systems; conduct PV system site analysis; design an appropriate system for the circumstances at hand;

    • identify the common types of energy storage systems;

    • compare the functions of various power conditioning devices;

    • list PV system sizing considerations, determine electrical load and energy use by review of utility bills, meter readings etc., estimate and/or measure the peak load demand and average daily energy use for all connected loads, identify opportunities for the use of energy-efficient equipment/appliances, conservation, and energy management practices;

    • describe types of roofs, both residential and commercial, and appropriate array mounting techniques for each type; take account of various structural loads and how to mitigate the impact of adding a PV array to a structure;

    • identify PV electrical and mechanical system design considerations; identify appropriate codes and standards concerning installation, operation, and maintenance of PV systems and equipment including safety procedures;

    • install and commission a grid-connected and a stand alone PV system; and



    • explain how to assess system operation and efficiency including environmental effects; compile and maintain records of system operation, performance, and maintenance.


    Text and Materials:
    Other Resources:
    Transfer Credits: For more information visit: www.bctransferguide.ca
    Other Information: