Domestic Solar Photovoltaic Course (PV Installer)

AIMS

This course will qualify the learner to register with SEAI as an approved contractor for Solar PV grants. This course also meets the Dept of Agriculture requirement for contractors to register on TAMS Solar PV installers register

Micro Solar Photovoltaic Systems Implementation: The aim of this module is to equip the learner with the relevant knowledge, skill and competence to implement micro scale solar photovoltaic PC projects, up to 11 kilowatt, according to the application standards, legislation, guidelines, and manufacturer’s specifications, while work autonomously. 

Micro Generator Electrical Installation: The aim of this module is to equip the learner with the knowledge, skill and competence to perform electrical installation, connection testing and commissioning of microgenerators with type-approved application standards, legislation, manufacturer’s instructions and guidelines, while work autonomously. 

 

 

 

 
 
 

DURATION

This course will be delivered over 6 full days (online) and 1 practical day (where learners must travel to Fermoy, Co. Cork). 

COURSE REQUIRMENTS

 

Learners must hold a Level 6 Electrical Trade Certificate to undertake this course and be currently employed.

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      COURSE MODULES

       

      QQI Level 6 Micro Solar Photovoltaic Systems Implementation (6N0306)

      • Describe the main p-v cell technologies including the characteristics, configurations, and components of solar p-v systems
      • Describe factors affecting solar p-v output to include tilt, orientation, over shading and p-v module mismatch
      • Describe the relationship between rated output at standard test conditions and actual output in use
      • Summarise the planning requirements for solar p-v installations including any possible exemptions
      • Summarise relevant legislation, standards and regulation to include CE marking and New Approach 2 directives, product testing and certification standards and building regulations
      • Describe maintenance requirements for solar p-v systems to include cleaning, checking torque of fixing bolts and visual inspection of array integrity and electrical connections
      • Propose an appropriate mounting technique based on aerodynamic and static load considerations
      • Describe the potential hazards and mitigating action associated with solar p-v operation to include electrical hazards, “always live” systems, labeling and signage requirements and fixing of panels
      • Describe the relevant health and safety requirements for installation to include working at height, securing ladders, safety requirements for scaffolds, guard rails and personal safety equipment
      • Describe the recommended installation sequence for solar p-v systems identifying relevant standards and guidelines applicable to each phase of installation
      • Outline the main considerations for roof-mounted solar p-v systems including roof types, construction, loading, integrity and weather proofing
      • Assess roof loading and load bearing capacity and recommend suitable mounting and weather sealing techniques
      • Use the recommended tools for deploying all required solar p-v system components in accordance with manufacturer’s specification
      • Carry out a feasibility study for solar p-v system to include a resource assessment and economic evaluation
      • Generate a design layout for a solar p-v system to include a specification of array location, mounting techniques, cable runs and inverter location
      • Assess the conformance of a solar p-v system in accordance with standards for module fixings, fixing of the array, weather proofing, and integrity of the array
      • Test a solar p-v installation to include normal shutdown, emergency shutdown, and power control against solar intensity

       

      • QQI Level 6 Micro Generator Electrical Installation (6N0307)
      • Describe key characteristics of micro-generation systems including the major components and system layout of wind, solar p-v (photo-voltaic), hydro- and micro-CHP (combined heat and power) systems
      • Identify the characteristics of generator types to include permanent magnet, induction, synchronous and asynchronous
      • Describe solar p-v module types and arrays to include current-voltage characteristics, open circuit voltage, short circuit current, maximum power current and voltage
      • Describe wind turbine types to include variable voltage and frequency output
      • Describe output controls on wind generator to include dump loads and electrical braking
      • Summarise the requirements for electrical works with respect to applicable regulations, certification, and national rules for electrical installation
      • Summarise relevant product requirements including those relating to European conformity CE marking, and testing and certification standards
      • Identify hazards associated with micro-generation installations to include “always live” systems, leakage current detection, earthing and lightning protection systems and isolation devices, proposing suitable mitigation measures
      • Describe network connection requirements including the network connection application process
      • Summarise appropriate signage and labeling requirements as per the National Rules for Electrical Installations to include identification of cable locations and “always live” systems.
      • Justify the selection of a suitable battery system based on sizing and safety requirements as per IS EN 50272-2
      • Calculate recommended minimum capacities for electrical components including voltage and current ratings for direct current plugs, connectors and switches, and cable capacity based on size
      • Program inverters with generator power curves in accordance with manufacturer’s specifications and set-up instructions
      • Commission a solar p-v system completing all required electrical testing
      • Commission a simulated rotating generator system completing all required electrical testing
      • Identify faults in solar p-v and rotating generator systems using test and measurement equipment
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      FUNDING

      This course is funded under the Skills To Advance initiative. For employed learners, this course, including course materials and assessments fees are provided at no cost to the learner. 

      CERTIFICATION

      QQI Level 6 Micro Solar Photovoltaic Systems Implementation (6N0306) and QQI Level 6 Electric Installation and Commissioning of Micro Generators (6N0307). 

      Upon successful completion of both awards, learners meet the qualifications for SEAI’s register as a PV Installer. More information is available at https://www.seai.ie/grants/find-a-registered-professional/solar-pv-installers/  

      Apply Now

       

      This course runs periodically, please email Linda from our Enterprise Engagement Team – lindalevingstone@kwetb.ie for more information.