Course Summary
This course provides an introduction to solar energy systems, covering the design and installation of solar photovoltaic systems, solar thermal systems, and energy storage systems.Key Learning Points
- Gain a comprehensive understanding of solar energy systems and their applications
- Learn how to design and install solar photovoltaic systems
- Learn how to design and install solar thermal systems
- Learn how to design and install energy storage systems
- Explore the economic and environmental benefits of solar energy systems
Related Topics for further study
Learning Outcomes
- Design and install solar photovoltaic systems
- Design and install solar thermal systems
- Design and install energy storage systems
Prerequisites or good to have knowledge before taking this course
- Basic knowledge of electricity and energy concepts
- Access to a computer with internet connection
Course Difficulty Level
IntermediateCourse Format
- Self-paced
- Online
- Video Lectures
- Assignments
Similar Courses
- Introduction to Renewable Energy
- Solar Energy Basics
- Wind Energy
Related Education Paths
Related Books
Description
By the end of this course, learners will have acquired a broad understanding of the history and mechanics behind converting light into electricity, commonly known as photovoltaics (PV). They are empowered to recognize and describe elements of a PV system, enabling them to: compare the most common types of solar cells, sketch a solar PV system, and analyze differences between rooftop and ground mounting configurations. The course explores economic considerations, touching on solar PV costs for residential and commercial use, incentives, and contrasts solar power with fossil fuel and nuclear plants.
Knowledge
- Differentiate the value of solar energy versus alternatives
- Explain how PV works in technical and economic terms, and identify its components
- Estimate solar system costs
Outline
- Acknowledgement
- Acknowledgements
- Solar Power
- Solar Industry History
- The Value of Solar Energy
- Solar Cells- Origins and Proliferation
- Clean Energy Incentives
- Solar History Timeline
- Solar and Wind Energy Maps (Optional)
- Climate Change (Optional)
- How Solar Cells Work (Optional)
- Solar Incentives, Rebates, and Tax Credits (Optional)
- Solar Power Self-Check
- Solar Power Graded Quiz
- The Nature of PV
- How PV Works
- Solar Electric System Anatomy
- Hands-on Demo: Solar Panel (Front)
- Hands-on Demo: Solar Panel (Back)
- PV System Components
- Hands-on Demo: Microinverters
- Hands-on Demo: String Inverters
- Hands-on Demo: Inverter Attachments
- Rooftop Systems
- Hands-on Demo: Rooftop Attachments- Flashing
- Hands-on Demo: Rooftop Attachments- Rails
- Hands-on Demo: Rooftop Attachments- Standing Seams
- Alternatives to Rooftop Systems
- The Photovoltaic Effect (Optional)
- Grid-tied vs Off-grid PV systems (Optional)
- Solar Panel Specifications (Optional)
- Semi-Conductors: Temperature and Resistivity (Recommended)
- PV System Components (optional)
- The Nature of PV Self-Check
- The Nature of PV Graded Quiz
- Solar Power ROI
- Economics of Solar Power
- Solar PV System Costs
- Calculating ROI
- Solar Plant Advantages
- Economics of Solar Power (Optional)
- Calculating System Cost
- State Incentives for Renewables (Optional)
- Example ROI Calculation
- Calculating ROI (Optional)
- Utility-Scale Solar (Optional)
- Solar Power ROI Self-Check
- Solar Power ROI Graded Quiz
- PV System Analysis Project: Theory to Practice
- PV System Analysis Project
Summary of User Reviews
The Solar Energy Systems course on Coursera has received positive reviews from users. The course provides a comprehensive overview of solar energy systems and their applications. Many users found the course to be informative and engaging.Key Aspect Users Liked About This Course
The course is informative and engaging.Pros from User Reviews
- Comprehensive overview of solar energy systems and their applications
- Engaging and well-structured course content
- Helpful and knowledgeable instructors
- Flexible schedule allows for self-paced learning
- Opportunities for hands-on learning through assignments and quizzes
Cons from User Reviews
- Limited technical depth in some areas
- Lack of interaction with other students
- Some technical glitches with the online platform
- Requires a strong foundation in math and science
- Not suitable for those looking for an introductory course
Gay E Canough
4.7 Raiting
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