Solar Power

Catalog description

This course provides an in-depth introduction to solar energy as a sustainable form of power and how it can be utilized for a variety of energy demand applications in residential, commercial, and municipal buildings. The benefits and limitations of various common solar energy technologies used to produce heat, hot water, and electricity are examined. The course looks at the process of siting, sizing and designing of solar hot water and solar photovoltaic electric systems and how to perform an economic and environmental analysis of proposed systems. In the classroom, students gain a basic understanding of the fundamental science of heat and energy and an up-to-date knowledge of the equipment and techniques used in the solar industry. While in the laboratory, students develop the hands-on skills necessary to evaluate, install and maintain solar power systems. Prerequisite: EGR 131 or EGR 151 or permission of instructor. Three lecture and three laboratory hours per week. Instructional Support Fee applies.