About the Course

Welcome to Unit 1 — your first step toward a hands-on career in solar.

This free module covers the foundational knowledge every solar professional needs. We’ll explore what photovoltaic (PV) technology is, how it works, and why it’s rapidly becoming one of the most in-demand skills in the energy sector.

You’ll learn:

  • How solar modules convert sunlight into electricity

  • The history and future of PV systems

  • Basics of the utility grid and solar’s role in it

  • Sustainability and job opportunities in solar

  • Key electrical concepts: DC, power vs. energy, system performance

  • What a day in the life of a solar installer actually looks like

  • Best practices from the field — not just theory

Whether you’re an experienced tradesperson exploring solar or brand new to the industry, this unit will give you the vocabulary, context, and confidence to move forward.

Instructor

  • Alexander Jarvis

    IREC Certified Master Trainer

    Alex has been working in the solar industry since 2006. He is an IREC Certified Master Trainer in Photovoltaic Technologies and a NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installation Professional. He is a solar installer and is the founder of Solar Systems of Indiana and cofounder of Southern Indiana Renewable Energy Network. He served on the Board of Directors at MREA from 2018-2024.

    + read more

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Course Syllabus

1. Welcome and Introductions

  • Introduction from Duncan Miller
  • Introduction from your instructor Alex Jarvis

2. PV Applications

  • Advantages and Disadvantages of Solar
  • Solar Jobs
  • Solar PV Cell Types
  • Review Solar System Types
  • How The PV Cell Works
  • Solar Mounting Options
  • Solar Jobsite Fundamentals
  • Solar PV Tools of the Trade
  • OHMS Law
  • Watts Law Exercises
  • Solar Terms Direct Current
  • Alternating Current (AC)
  • Distributed Generation Part 2
  • Electric Circuits – Closed Circuit Open Circuit Metric Pre Fixes
  • Energy vs Power Solar Energy vs Solar Power
  • Solar Resource Irradiance vs Insolation
  • Solar Sun Angles
  • Solar Sun Path Chart
  • Standard Test Conditions - Solar Module Power Ratings
  • PV Cell And Module Types
  • Solar Balance of System Components
  • PV Markets - Residential, C & I, Utility
  • Ohms Law Exercises
  • Ohms Law Exercises KEY
  • WattsLaw Exercises
  • WattsLaw Exercises KEY

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