Solar Energy Basics

This course gives you an introduction to the fundamentals of solar power as it applies to solar panel system installations. You will learn to compare solar energy to other energy resources and explain how solar panels, or photovoltaics (PV for short), convert sunlight to electricity. You will be able to identify the key components needed in a basic photovoltaic (solar panel) system, such as is found on a house or building, and explain the function of each component in the system. You will also

• Calculate energy usage at a location
• Design a basic photovoltaic system for specific energy needs
• Describe financial models and trends in photovoltaic energy