Photovoltaic Systems Investigation Training

The Photovoltaic Systems in person training program is intended to give participants a fundamental knowledge and understanding of the electrical aspects of photovoltaic systems, commonly referred to as Solar Power Generation Systems.

This program will include a brief history of photovoltaic cells and systems and discuss how photovoltaic power contributes to the electric grid. The program will include a review of the fundamentals of electricity and discuss how they are applied within a solar array. The various components of a photovoltaic system will be presented and the interaction of the various components in a cell, module, and array will be explained as it relates the power generating function of the overall photovoltaic system. Safety protocols relevant to the investigation of fires involving photovoltaic systems will be introduced, and common failures in these systems will also be identified.  Case studies will be utilized as appropriate to illustrate the practical application of the information presented in this course.

At the end of this program, the participant should be able to:

  • Describe the general use of photovoltaics

  • Explain solar radiation and its relationship to photovoltaics

  • Explain basic electricity

  • Explain sources and diodes

  • Review and explain residential and light commercial electrical services

  • Explain photovoltaic cells, modules, and arrays, including the equivalent circuit of a photovoltaic cell

  • Explain shading and its effect on photovoltaic systems

  • Discuss energy storage in photovoltaic systems

  • Explain the photovoltaic balance of system components

  • Discuss the National Electrical Code as it relates to photovoltaics

  • Explain electrical hazards in photovoltaic cells and systems

  • Discuss potential failure modes in photovoltaic cells and systems.

  • Discuss standards organizations that generate standards applicable to photovoltaics

Pre-Requisites Photovoltaic Systems

  • CFITrainer.Net Modules
  • Basic Electric
  • Residential Electric Systems
  • Electrical Safety
  • Lithium-Ion Battery Fires
  • Photovoltaic Cells and Systems
  • Site Safety Assessment

None currently scheduled; please call IAAI at the number below if you need more information.