Introduction to Solar Thermal Technology

(S102)*

Contact Hours: 8

DESCRIPTION

This course provides an introduction to the fundamentals of solar energy and to the solar heating and cooling (SHC) industry. Course content includes:

An introduction to solar radiation and heat transfer
An overview of system types and components
Site survey and analysis techniques and methods
Study of various system configurations used for domestic hot water production, space heat and swimming pool heating
Overview of solar collectors, pumps, valves, tanks and other components

PREREQUISITES

There is no prerequisite coursework. No solar industry experience is assumed. Knowledge requirements include basic math skills (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions, decimals, and percentages, use of formulas, algebra and word problems), use of the Internet, problem solving skills, and the use of a calculator.

COURSE OBJECTIVES

Upon Completion of this course, the student will have the ability to:

Analyze load demands and calculate system requirements
Conduct a site survey and specify system components and design
Calculate collector and storage tank size for domestic hot water systems
Determine structural integrity and suitability for installation of SHC systems
Describe various mounting systems and perform mounting procedures of collectors and plumbing components
Demonstrate proper pipe soldering techniques
Demonstrate proper placement and connection of system components
Perform commissioning, maintenance, and troubleshooting procedures for installed systems
Demonstrate proper and safe use of required tools and measurement instruments necessary to conduct a thorough site survey and system installation
Describe inspection, permitting and documentation requirements
Describe risks and relevant safety issues and OSHA regulations

STUDENT EVALUATION

Student performance is evaluated on the basis of:

Class participation
Lab participation
Completion of assignments
Attendance

TEXTBOOKS & INSTRUCTIONAL MANUALS

Solar Thermal Training, published by ONTILITY

ATTENDANCE POLICY

It is expected that students will attend scheduled classes regularly and on time. If an absence occurs, it is the responsibility of the student to make up all missed work. Students, who must withdraw from a class, will receive credit for work completed and may complete the course at a later date with instructor approval. Attendance will be tracked and maintained for various reporting purposes.

ACCREDITATION AND EVALUATION

The curriculum for this course is based on the NABCEP Solar Thermal Installer Job Task Analysis and the course is accredited by the Interstate Renewable Energy Council (IREC) according to standards set by the Institute for Sustainable Power Quality (ISPQ) Assessment Framework. In keeping with the standards of this accreditation, students are encouraged to provide informal feedback throughout the course. A survey is distributed to students on the last day of class whereby students are asked to evaluate the class and the instructor. This feedback is used to create an on-going professional development plan for instructors and to inform course improvements.

STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES

This institution complies with Section 504 and the Americans with Disabilities Act. Students with disabilities who seek accommodations must make their requests knows when registering for a course or workshop. If a disability is identified after class has begun, a non-retroactive accommodation plan will be developed.

Class Fee: $195

* These are Powered by ONTILITY^© Certified Partner^© Program Courses. One or more of these courses may be required to achieve designation as a Powered by ONTILITY^© Certified Partner^©.