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Course Catalog > Construction and Environmental Management > Energy

Solar Energy: A Study of Ground-Mounted Photovoltaic Systems

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X440.2 (1 semester unit in Electrical Engineering)

Study ground-mounted photovoltaic systems (PVs), and gain an understanding of sitting, orientating, feasibility analysis, active tracking, code-compliant wiring strategies, expected array power loss and voltage drop using code tables, design considerations versus roof-mounted systems, utility-interactive considerations, height requirements, public and worker safety considerations, buried component issues and typical permit requirement thresholds—environment and building—in the Bay Area. Learn to recognize and understand the importance of types of ground-mounted photovoltaic systems; systems and equipment grounding unique to PV systems; specific relevant code requirements and calculations for ground-mounted PV systems; and code and permitting requirements of ground-mounted residential and commercial systems.

You should have a fundamental understanding of PV systems including a basic understanding of electricity and electrical circuits. You are expected to bring a scientific calculator to class. You are strongly requested to obtain access to a number of additional resources such as the State of California building and electrical codes, and other wiring regulations from the National Fire Protection Association, Underwriter Laboratories, the International Association of Electrical Inspectors and others.

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