Introduction to Solar Photovoltaic Systems

Canada’s residential, commercial, and institutional buildings account for 18% of our national greenhouse gas emissions. The adoption of zero-emission energy sources such as solar photovoltaic (PV), as an alternative to fossil fuels, represents a key part of Canada’s 2030 Emission Reduction Plan. This course provides students with foundational theory on solar photovoltaic technology and systems. Students learn the science behind how the sun’s energy is converted into electricity, the theory behind solar PV system operation, and the characteristics of different solar PV systems, components, and equipment.

The student will learn how to: 

• Explain the fundamental science behind how solar PV systems convert the sun’s energy into electricity
• Describe how fundamental concepts of electricity relate to solar PV system design and performance
• Explain solar PV panel and system operation according to solar PV generation principles
• Explain the characteristics and applications of types of solar PV components and equipment

Assessments will include online activities and will be aligned with NSCC’s curriculum development and assessment processes, including validation by industry. For example, learners will be asked to calculate the practical output of a solar system through the application of solar PV generation principles. 

Canada’s residential, commercial, and institutional buildings account for 18% of our national greenhouse gas emissions. The adoption of zero-emission energy sources such as solar photovoltaic (PV), as an alternative to fossil fuels, represents a key part of Canada’s 2030 Emission Reduction Plan. However, the adoption of solar PV as a significant energy source is limited by the availability of skilled solar PV installers. Introducing interested people to the science and operation of solar systems may encourage them to pursue further training to become solar PV installers. This introductory course, then, is a pathway to increasing the number of people interested in being trained as installers which is a critical part of Canada’s transition to a low carbon economy.