Photovoltaic Systems Design and Construction

Catalog description

This course offers in-depth study in the areas of solar energy sources, photovoltaic (PV) systems design, and their interface with building electrical systems. The course provides an overview of PV systems and common applications in residential and commercial buildings, including the availability, intensity, and utilization methods of solar irradiance and insolation based on latitude and climate as well as site survey and assessment methods for the positioning of PV systems. Technical topics include solar radiation modeling, calculations, and simulation, traditional and emerging photovoltaic technologies, DC-AC power inversion, energy storage systems, and system sizing and design. The integration of PV systems with the building electrical system, including discussions of the pertinent building codes, utility interconnection, and the economic analysis of PV systems, is also included in this course. By the end of the course, students will be able to calculate and account for the factors which affect the performance of PV systems in various climates and conditions; distinguish the features and performance variables of solar modules and inverters in the design of PV systems; calculate string sizing and inverter matching variables in the design of PV systems; communicate the critical design features of safe and efficient PV system integration with buildings and utilities; evaluate and quantify the factors affecting the successful installation and performance of PV systems in a variety of settings; and apply newly acquired inquiry skills to assess new products entering the solar energy marketplace. In addition to understanding the key issues with system design, students will be able to choose components properly and to design a basic grid-tied system for a chosen building. Students will also be able to conduct an economic analysis of PV systems in the context of residential and commercial building construction. Lecture material is reinforced with homework, hands-on exercises, and a semester-long project completed by each student.