Photovoltaic (PV) System Installation Training | Research Triangle Park, SC

This five-day course provides a one week intensive hands-on exposure to the process of installing a photovoltaic system. With the increasing focus on ways to leverage renewable energy resources, predictions are favorable for the increased use of PV systems in both residential and commercial dwellings.

The PV System Installation course provides critical knowledge of solar energy and systems applied to PV installations. It also focuses on gaining a full understanding of how to organize a successful PV installation project including the review of project documents, site plans, electrical drawings, job specifications, manufacturer installation instructions, and pertinent documentation from the local authority having jurisdiction (AHJ). You will gain essential knowledge and skills in methods to construct the PV array, support structures and install both DC and AC wiring and equipment. You will learn how to conduct an insulation integrity test for DC or AC wiring and equipment and which OSHA requirements apply to the project. You will have many opportunities to apply your week-long experience to real world installation activities. You will also acquire the skills and knowledge to complete the project including needed inspections and evaluations, proper signing and labeling, system testing, calibration and verification of system performance.

Vital to any successful PV installation is a thorough understanding of how the National Electrical Code (NEC), in particular Article 690, applies to it. You will gain understanding in how to determine the requirements that apply to your PV installation as well as other requirements.

Finally, no installation project ends without training the customer in how to operate their new PV system. You learn how to approach dealing with the customer at the end of the installation and gain their satisfaction with your work.

Note: This course does not cover how to design a PV system. The topics of optimization and troubleshooting will only be covered in so far as they pertain to a PV system installation. In addition, please note that completion of this course does not certify an individual as a PV System Installer. To become a Certified PV System Installer you must register for and pass the PV Installer Certification exam.

Contact UL University at 1-888-503-5536 to learn how you can save 40% off the registration fee!

Objectives

Organize and plan a PV installation project
Construct a PV array
Install DC wiring and equipment as it pertains to a PV installation
Install AC wiring and equipment as it pertains to a PV installation
Complete a PV system installation project
Commission the PV system and close-out the project
Comprehend and use common solar energy and PV system terms and concepts
Apply OSHA and NEC requirements to the PV installation

Synopsis of topics and activities

Day One
Organizing a PV installation
Reviewing project documents
Contacting and verifying local requirements
Developing lists for materials, tools, and equipment
Coordinating logistics and manpower
Conducting safety briefing
Verifying existing ground electrode systems
Verifying adequacy of existing electrical system
Case Review Activity – Organizing the PV Installation
Constructing the PV Array
Overview of PV arrays, other equipment, and materials
Issues regarding array layout and construction
NEC requirements
Safety practices
Troubleshooting construction issues
Demonstration – Constructing the PV Array
Hands-on Activity – Constructing the PV Array
VOLT (Voluntary Open Lab Time)
Day Two
Hands-on Activity – Constructing the PV Array (continued from Day 1)
Installing DC Wiring and Equipment
Laying out the DC wiring and equipment
Installing the DC equipment
Installing the DC wiring methods
Routing DC wiring from modules/arrays to inverter
Determining and installing appropriate materials, including fasteners, junction boxes, cable runs, conduit, tubing fittings, and grounding/bonding of conductors.
Testing DC insulation integrity
Troubleshooting DC wiring methods and equipment
Obtaining DC rough inspection approval
Labeling DC conductors
Terminating DC conductors
Installing DC GEC
Installing DC bonding and grounding EGC
Bonding lightning protection systems
Installing inverters
Installing battery system
Hands-on Activity – Install DC Wiring and Equipment on a PV System
VOLT (Voluntary Open Lab Time)
Day Three
Installing AC Wiring and Equipment
Laying out the AC wiring and equipment
Installing the AC equipment; upgrading electrical service if needed
Installing AC disconnects
Installing AC wiring methods
Testing insulation integrity
Obtaining AC wiring rough inspection
Labeling AC conductors
Terminating AC conductors
Installing grounding electrode systems
Installing grounding and bonding
Connecting other power sources
Hands-on Activity – Install AC Wiring and Equipment on a PV System
VOLT (Voluntary Open Lab Time)
Day Four
Completing the PV System Construction
Visual inspections of the project
Developing and completing a project punch list
Installing overcurrent protective devices
Installing required signs and labels
Troubleshooting potential problems
Completing project as-builts
Obtaining the field evaluation
Final inspection approval
Site clean-up
Hands-on Activity – Completing the PV Construction
Commissioning the System and Closing Out the Project
Performing system test and start-up
System calibrations
System performance monitoring and troubleshooting
Hands-on Activity – Calibrating the PV System
Overall Course Summary
VOLT (Voluntary Open Lab Time)
Day Five
Performance Assessment
Hands-on performance assessment in work teams
Performance assessment debrief
Written assessment
NOTE: This is not the certification exam.
Course Evaluations

Target Audience

Qualified electricians
Journeymen / apprentices
Electrical contractors
Builders / inspectors
Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs)

Contact Information:
UL University
888-503-5536