Solar Energy Technology is the one of fastest growing technology in the world. From having small scale niche applications a decade ago, it is becoming one of the mainstream sources of energy.  However, because of lack of knowledge and training, many of us are unaware in best utilizing solar energy systems and this includes many solar product suppliers. This lack of knowledge is often on display in the form of wrongly oriented PV panels.  As a result, the PV system output is greatly reduced. Poorly designed systems also increase the cost of installation.  

This course on solar energy technology for business was designed mainly for people who would like to start a solar energy product business, but do not have the technical knowledge to do so. This course can also benefit someone who wants to become the end user of solar energy.

The course will help you identify the right products for yourself or customers/ clients. It will help you design the systems correctly to meet customer’s requirement.  Currently, bulk of the solar energy product businesses are operated by people who have little understanding of optimization of solar energy systems. And therefore many solar products are sold and systems are designed that either do not meet customers demand or do it very inefficiently.  

This course will not only help in bridging the knowledge gap but also give you an edge over other solar product suppliers in the market.

How is the course structured?

The course is divided into four sections. The largest section of the course is related to understanding the nature of solar energy and how to best harness it. 

Later sections explore two of the main solar products i.e. Solar Photo-voltaic and Solar Water Heaters. The course also touches on solar desalination, which will become an important technology in the future because of fresh water shortage.

Practical considerations for installing solar collectors have also been explored.

The course is delivered in the form of whiteboard animation videos. It should be noted that whiteboard animation is deemed as one of the most engaging ways of delivering lectures.

The development of whiteboard animations takes significantly more time compared to simple PowerPoints with voiceovers. Quizzes have been added to test students’ knowledge and notes, useful website links and charts have been made available in the resources section.

Who should take this course?

This course is for all levels and can be completed by anyone with basic knowledge of science. You should also have the ability to calculations of simple equations. Other than that, curiosity and interest in the field of solar energy will help you gain the most out of this course. 

The content tries to remain focused on more practical considerations rather than delving into more academic details. 

It is hoped that through this course, the students will not only be able to benefit themselves but also benefit the community around them in using solar energy. They will be able to provide consultancy to customers and even land themselves a job with their local solar product supplier.

This is a truly empowering course that will open up new vistas and opportunities for you to explore.