Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/solar-energy-and-electrical-system-design
**Course Review: Solar Energy and Electrical System Design on Coursera** In the midst of an accelerating shift towards renewable energy sources, understanding how to effectively harness solar power is becoming an invaluable skill. For anyone considering a career in renewable energy or simply looking to deepen their knowledge of photovoltaic (PV) systems, the Coursera course "Solar Energy and Electrical System Design" stands out as an excellent choice. This comprehensive course provides a thorough foundation in the principles and practices necessary for planning and implementing effective solar energy systems. ### Course Overview "Solar Energy and Electrical System Design" is structured to equip learners with the insights essential for the proper planning and successful installation of PV systems. From initial site inspections to practical applications, this course covers all facets of solar system design, ensuring participants come away with both theoretical and practical knowledge. It effectively balances foundational concepts with advanced design considerations, making it suitable for a range of learners, from enthusiasts to professionals. ### Syllabus Breakdown 1. **PV Design Basics** This section delves into critical site inspection criteria — from shade calculations to roof assessments, identifying optimal solar panel placement, and considering environmental factors like flood zones and proximity to power lines. Unique elements of residential, small industrial, and utility-scale applications are explored, providing a comprehensive overview of PV system capabilities and installation scenarios. 2. **PV Design Considerations** Students will learn to assess system loads and efficiency metrics, tackle structural challenges like wind resistance and weight loading, and comprehend the dos and don’ts of selecting lag bolts and ballast systems. These foundational design principles ensure that future installations are both safe and efficient. 3. **Electrical System Design** This module focuses on essential calculations for system sizing, enabling learners to comprehend the electrical aspects of PV systems comprehensively. Proper sizing is crucial for ensuring that systems operate effectively and meet energy demands. 4. **Recommendation Options** This part of the course addresses aesthetic considerations, showcasing the tools available for effective PV planning. Understanding the visual impact of systems can help integrate solar energy solutions into various environments harmoniously. 5. **System Design Project: Theory to Practice** Perhaps the most impactful module, this practical segment empowers students to translate their learned knowledge into real-world applications through detailed system design calculations. Engaging with hands-on projects reinforces the theoretical content provided throughout the course. ### Course Experience The course is designed to be engaging and interactive, featuring a mix of video lectures, readings, quizzes, and practical assignments. The instructors are seasoned professionals in the field, providing real-world insights that enrich the learning experience. Peer interaction through forums allows for the exchange of ideas and problem-solving strategies, fostering a collaborative learning environment. ### Recommendations I highly recommend "Solar Energy and Electrical System Design" for a variety of learners, including: - **Aspiring Renewable Energy Professionals:** Whether you are a student or a career changer, this course provides the foundational knowledge needed to understand and work with solar technology. - **Industry Professionals:** Those currently in electrical or construction fields can benefit from expanding their knowledge of solar systems, enhancing their skills and marketability. - **Enthusiasts and Homeowners:** If you’re interested in installing your own solar system or advocating for renewable energy solutions, the insights gained from this course will be invaluable. ### Conclusion In conclusion, the "Solar Energy and Electrical System Design" course on Coursera is a well-structured, informative, and practical curriculum that thoroughly prepares participants for the demands of designing and implementing solar energy systems. With its diverse content and practical applications, it serves as a vital resource in the renewable energy landscape. Whether for professional development or personal interest, enrolling in this course is an excellent step towards understanding and utilizing solar energy effectively.
PV Design Basics
Learners will explore site inspection considerations, shade calculations, roof assessments, solar panel location and spacing, floodplains, power line and battery locations, circuit boxes, pros and cons of rooftop and ground-mounted systems, and considerations related to commercial and utility scale solar applications.
PV Design ConsiderationsStudents will learn about system loads and efficiency, wind and weight loading, how to calculate the proper size for lag bolts, measuring excess capacity, and considerations related to ballast systems.
Electrical System DesignStudents will learn about system sizing considerations and calculations.
Recommendation OptionsStudents will learn about aesthetics considerations and tools for PV planning
System Design Project: Theory to PracticeStudents will apply their learning to perform system design calculations.
This course supplies learners with the insights necessary for properly planning, and therefore successfully installing, a photovoltaic (PV) system per design specifications. It directs learners through the important steps of initial site inspection and evaluating appropriate locations for PV systems, and features unique elements of residential, small, industrial and utility-scale solar applications. The course probes key design concerns – including load, efficiency, and mechanical and electrical
After finish this course, I realize my final project about renewable energy using solar panel was nothing compared with the knowledge I obtain from this course
If including some design videos like sunny web design or helioscope and aurora solar will gain some practical knowledge of designing.
Excellent professor with a clear and concise approach to the material. I absolutely recommend taking this class if you want to learn about solar design.
Very informative course. It's a little bit technical and harder than the previous course from UB, but definitely more on point on the lessons.
It is an excellent course and excellent instructor but the course can be even better, if more explanation on a board added to the course's materials.