Residential Solar PV Workshop (Zanesville, OH) - SOLD OUT - Textbooks, Training, Certification, Instructor Materials

Date/Time
Date(s) - 08/10/2020 - 08/14/2020
8:00 am - 5:00 pm

August 10th-14th: at Zane State College, Zanesville, Ohio (Sold Out)

This is an intense, jam-packed, 40-hour in-person course. It includes lectures and discussions (about 60%), hands on labs (about 30%) and review and preparation for the ETA PV Level 1 certification examination (about 10%). We assume you come to the class with no (zero) electrical or solar experience. By the end of the week you should have all the knowledge and skills to design and install your own residential PV system (all we can’t provide you with is the confidence to make it happen – but we will even try to help with that).

Course Content Includes:

Basic Principles and Concepts of Electricity

Basic Principles and Concepts of Photovoltaics

How photovoltaic cells work
Solar cell efficiency
Factors affecting cell performance
Types of photovoltaic cells
Advantages and disadvantages of various photovoltaic technology options
Solar panel specifications
Standard Test Conditions (STC)

Photovoltaic System Components

Inverters (square wave, modified square wave, sine-wave)
Balance of system (BOS) components
- Junction box
- Combiners
- Battery system
- Controllers
- Maximum Power Point tracking
- Inverter
- Disconnects

Standard system configurations

Stand-alone Systems
Grid-tied Systems
- String Inverter
- Microinverters
- Power Optimizers
DC Coupled Systems
AC Coupled Systems
Hybrid systems

Site assessment

Locating true south (lines of declination)
Shading issues
Panel orientation (altitude and azimuth)
Array mounting options and issues
- Rooftop
  - Available area
  - Structural integrity
  - Stand off requirements
  - Loading issues
  - Inter row shading
- Ground mounted
- Top pole
  - Side pole
  - Tracking systems
- Building Integrated systems
Determining available sunlight
- Solar insolation maps, using PV Watts
- Use of a Solar Pathfinder
- Solar window

Designing a PV system

Determining load requirements
Calculating electrical use
- Assessing electric bills
- Load variations
- Cycling loads
- Phantom loads
- Induction motors
Selecting a panel
- Panel specifications
Determining system inefficiencies
- Inverter efficiencies
- BOS inefficiencies
Wiring selection and voltage drop issues
Temperature adjustments
Estimating the size of the array
Calculating number of panels given specifications and load requirements
- Determine maximum voltage of system and adjust for temperature variations
- Calculate number of panels and number of strings
Determine compatibility to BOS components
Grounding, bonding and over-current issues
Pricing the system as designed (current costs, incentives)
Connecting to the grid
Troubleshooting problems

Battery Systems

Types of batteries (lead acid, lithium ion, etc)
Determining nominal voltage
Calculating Amp hour storage requirements
Depth of discharge
Temperature adjustments
Battery bank sizing calculations
How batteries are charged
- Bulk charge
- Absorption charge
- Floating charge
Battery storage and maintenance issues
- Venting
- Equalization
- Measuring state of charge
Battery safety issues

System Installation

Racking Systems
Loading Issues
Climbing Safety
Ground Mounted Systems
Conduit Installation and Fill Issues

Paperwork

Required Documentation/Application Package
- Interconnect Agreements
- Net Metering Agreements
- Required Permits
- Commissioning Forms
- Installation Checklists
- Operation and Maintenance Documentation

Testing and Commissioning the System

Final Installation Checklist
Visual Inspection
Verification of Code Compliance
Electrical System Verification Testing
System Functioning Testing
Verify Array Power and Energy Production against STC
Derating Factor Components

System Maintenance and Troubleshooting

Monitoring Performance
Typical Systems Problems and how to Correct Them
System Maintenance

Hands-On Labs Include:

Using a multi-meter
Wire selection and termination
Making MC4 jumpers in the field
Creating a simple circuit
Connecting panels and batteries in series, parallel, and a combination of the two
Climbing safety
Testing a solar panel
Assembling and connecting a complete string inverter system (mounting panels on racks, connecting to a combiner box, hooking up a DC disconnect, wiring the inverter, connecting to the AC disconnect, and then connecting to the circuit breaker panel)
Mounting and connecting micro inverters
Assembling a hybrid system (integrating wind and solar), testing diverted load charge controller
Making and testing a solar generator
Doing a site assessment, including working with an irradiance meter and a Solar Pathfinder
Sizing wire based on load and temperature
Selecting and pricing all components
Working through the design (start to finish) of a residential PV system

This course prepares you to sit for the ETA Photovoltaic Installer (PVI) Level 1. It is the first level of ETA’s certifications designed to assess renewable energy professionals. It is also a great first step for those seeking to enter the PV industry, and perhaps later prepare to sit for the ETA Photovoltaic Installer Level 2 or NABCEP PV certification programs. Some jurisdictions (the state of Illinois, for example) require certification in order for you to install PV systems or apply for solar incentive programs. The ETA PV Level 1 certification meets these requirements in most cases.

This course is offered throughout the midwest in partnership with several not-for-profits. The fee for this one-week course is $970 and includes: Instruction, hands-on labs, textbook and lab material, ETA examination, and (in some cases) lunch. This course is also eligible for VA and Americorps funding. Scholarships may also be available based on need. Contact us at 740-674-4300 for further details regarding the management of fees.

Early Registration Fee: $970 (SOLD OUT)*

After August 1st, price increases to $1,070

If you are a Zane State student and wish college credit (Solar Energy Systems (EEET 1950-01), 2 credit hours) for this course, you must register directly with Zane State

(*by registering, you agree to the terms outlined in the Waiver of Liability)

*Give us a call regarding multi-registration discounts – 740.674.4300

Residential Solar PV Workshop (Zanesville, OH) – SOLD OUT

Blue Rock Station LLC is an accredited provider with NABCEP, both for initial certification as well as for recertification. The Residential Solar Installation & Design course (online, in person and hybrid format) has been approved for the following:

PV Installation Professional Exam 40 Advanced, Accredited hours required, and 18 Advanced Accredited OR Non-Accredited hours	*Hours* 32 JTA
PV Design Specialist Exam 18 Advanced, Accredited Hours AND 6 NEC hours of training required	28 JTA	8 NEC
PV Installation Specialist Exam 18 Advanced, Accredited Hours AND 6 NEC hours of training required	32 JTA	8 NEC
PV Commissioning & Maintenance Specialist Exam 18 Advanced, Accredited Hours AND 6 NEC hours of training required	32 JTA	8 NEC
PV Technical Sales Professional Exam See Certification Handbook, Chapter 7	8 JTA

We are also accredited for ETA International certification, Wisconsin licenses, Virginia licenses and Landscape Architects

"Thank you so much for putting all that knowledge on me. Regardless of test outcome I feel more certain about solarizing... and the message after yours was my AEP bill. I'll take that as a sign to get moving on my plans."

Nancy Jesser, Columbus, OH

Textbooks, Training, Certification, Instructor Materials

2018-12-02T22:49:30-05:00

Nancy Jesser, Columbus, OH

"Thank you so much for putting all that knowledge on me. Regardless of test outcome I feel more certain about solarizing... and the message after yours was my AEP bill. I'll take that as a sign to get moving on my plans."

https://solarpvtraining.com/testimonials/166/

"This training was one of the best theory and hands on training I have ever received an as a result I have built my second 10KW solar generator based on the instructions I received."

James Mosley Jr, Ft. Campbell, KY

Textbooks, Training, Certification, Instructor Materials

2018-12-02T23:17:25-05:00

James Mosley Jr, Ft. Campbell, KY

"This training was one of the best theory and hands on training I have ever received an as a result I have built my second 10KW solar generator based on the instructions I received."

https://solarpvtraining.com/testimonials/182/

"Thanks for offering the solar cert. I just finished up a 8kW on grid, off grid system for a guy."

Russell Gabriel, Athens, OH

Textbooks, Training, Certification, Instructor Materials

2018-12-02T22:50:59-05:00

Russell Gabriel, Athens, OH

"Thanks for offering the solar cert. I just finished up a 8kW on grid, off grid system for a guy."

https://solarpvtraining.com/testimonials/167/

"The course certainly does what was advertised. I now know how to design almost any PV system."

Christian Collett, Wilmington, OH

Textbooks, Training, Certification, Instructor Materials

2018-12-02T23:18:41-05:00

Christian Collett, Wilmington, OH

"The course certainly does what was advertised. I now know how to design almost any PV system."

https://solarpvtraining.com/testimonials/183/

"We are very happy that we had chosen your Photovoltaic course in Newark. We learned so much from your course regarding photovoltaic cells , electricity generation, the techniques of installation of panels etc in a very congenial, friendly and laid back atmosphere. Your great input in this field encouraged us to work on a small project at home on small solar cells."

Satyanarayana Kadim and Rajeshkumar Kadim, Athens, OH

Textbooks, Training, Certification, Instructor Materials

2018-12-02T22:52:22-05:00

Satyanarayana Kadim and Rajeshkumar Kadim, Athens, OH

"We are very happy that we had chosen your Photovoltaic course in Newark. We learned so much from your course regarding photovoltaic cells , electricity generation, the techniques of installation of panels etc in a very congenial, friendly and laid back atmosphere. Your great input in this field encouraged us to work on a small project at home on small solar cells."

https://solarpvtraining.com/testimonials/168/

"Again, I cannot say enough good things about the class! Great material, well taught, all around an experience I'll never forget!"

Chris Reznick, Flint, MI

Textbooks, Training, Certification, Instructor Materials

2018-12-02T23:19:38-05:00

Chris Reznick, Flint, MI

"Again, I cannot say enough good things about the class! Great material, well taught, all around an experience I'll never forget!"

https://solarpvtraining.com/testimonials/184/

"Jay’s knowledge on solar and related topics, delivered effectively through anecdotal experience and his pragmatic approach, is inspirational. There are very few questions he is unable to answer or provide a reference for. His enthusiasm for our success never waned even when asked the same questions repeatedly. I look forward to attending more of Jay’s classes and know that I’ll come away with more than I paid for."

Chris Kenney, Cincinnati, OH

Textbooks, Training, Certification, Instructor Materials

2018-12-02T22:53:42-05:00

Chris Kenney, Cincinnati, OH

"Jay’s knowledge on solar and related topics, delivered effectively through anecdotal experience and his pragmatic approach, is inspirational. There are very few questions he is unable to answer or provide a reference for. His enthusiasm for our success never waned even when asked the same questions repeatedly. I look forward to attending more of Jay’s classes and know that I’ll come away with more than I paid for."

https://solarpvtraining.com/testimonials/169/

"I went into your course not knowing how to strip a wire or the difference between voltage and current. Now I'm wiring inverters, running strings of power optimizers, doing site audits, bending conduit to connect arrays, and of course annoyingly banging away on peoples' roofs to find rafters to install the racking system."

Ryan Conley, Maryland

Textbooks, Training, Certification, Instructor Materials

2018-12-02T23:20:57-05:00

Ryan Conley, Maryland

"I went into your course not knowing how to strip a wire or the difference between voltage and current. Now I'm wiring inverters, running strings of power optimizers, doing site audits, bending conduit to connect arrays, and of course annoyingly banging away on peoples' roofs to find rafters to install the racking system."

https://solarpvtraining.com/testimonials/185/

"Jay’s solar power course was a refreshing introduction into the world of photovoltaics. I couldn’t have asked for a better instructor. He provides real-word experience that is thorough and relevant. Jay is well spoken and a gifted communicator. His class provides a solid framework from which to build knowledge and experience."

Dale Ramsey, Pickerington, OH

Textbooks, Training, Certification, Instructor Materials

2018-12-02T22:55:02-05:00

Dale Ramsey, Pickerington, OH

"Jay’s solar power course was a refreshing introduction into the world of photovoltaics. I couldn’t have asked for a better instructor. He provides real-word experience that is thorough and relevant. Jay is well spoken and a gifted communicator. His class provides a solid framework from which to build knowledge and experience."

https://solarpvtraining.com/testimonials/170/

"I am particularly impressed by the method of delivery of the course content by the instructor and the guest instructor. The methodology of delivery of the course content was captivating and even flawless as topics that appear new were broken down and made simple for better understanding."

Okhaigbe Fatairu, Abuja, Nigeria

Textbooks, Training, Certification, Instructor Materials

2018-12-02T23:21:54-05:00

Okhaigbe Fatairu, Abuja, Nigeria

"I am particularly impressed by the method of delivery of the course content by the instructor and the guest instructor. The methodology of delivery of the course content was captivating and even flawless as topics that appear new were broken down and made simple for better understanding."

https://solarpvtraining.com/testimonials/186/

"From the beginning, Jay measured each student’s background and technical understanding. Our class experience ranged from doctors and engineers to tradesmen and finally students. His material is well-organized and delivered in a way everyone can understand. He provides a mixture of lecture and hands-on instruction, building on each topic in a logical manner."

Dale Ramsey, Pickerington, OH

Textbooks, Training, Certification, Instructor Materials

2018-12-02T22:56:03-05:00

Dale Ramsey, Pickerington, OH

"From the beginning, Jay measured each student’s background and technical understanding. Our class experience ranged from doctors and engineers to tradesmen and finally students. His material is well-organized and delivered in a way everyone can understand. He provides a mixture of lecture and hands-on instruction, building on each topic in a logical manner."

https://solarpvtraining.com/testimonials/171/

Thanks again for the course last summer. Looking back its hard to believe its been a year since Yellow Springs. The course really was like drinking out of a fire hose and at times I wondered what I had gotten myself into. I honestly didn't think I had passed the test. Yet year later I here I am. Hell, I've only been in this new position for a few months and I've made lead site surveyor of the team.

Ryan Conley

Textbooks, Training, Certification, Instructor Materials

2018-12-12T12:49:28-05:00

Ryan Conley

https://solarpvtraining.com/testimonials/494/

"I’ve been a technical instructor for almost 20 years and Jay is at the top of the list of the best instructors I’ve witnessed. He engages the class from the beginning and answers the question: "Where we are…how we got there…and where we are heading?” Most importantly, Jay provides the tools and direction for each of us to make it happen."

Dale Ramsey, Pickerington, OH

Textbooks, Training, Certification, Instructor Materials

2018-12-02T22:57:10-05:00

Dale Ramsey, Pickerington, OH

"I’ve been a technical instructor for almost 20 years and Jay is at the top of the list of the best instructors I’ve witnessed. He engages the class from the beginning and answers the question: "Where we are…how we got there…and where we are heading?” Most importantly, Jay provides the tools and direction for each of us to make it happen."

https://solarpvtraining.com/testimonials/172/

"Having taken numerous classes, I consider myself an expert on taking numerous classes. Jay Warmke’s warm and thorough approach to the instruction of photovoltaic installation exceeded my expectations in every way. His patience and perseverance left the entire class feeling as if no question was a stupid question and he complimented the classroom setting with his extremely funny sense of humor. I wholeheartedly recommend taking any of his or his wonderful wife Annie’s classes you may be interested in, with no reservations."

Nick Adams, Columbus, OH

Textbooks, Training, Certification, Instructor Materials

2018-12-02T22:59:29-05:00

Nick Adams, Columbus, OH

"Having taken numerous classes, I consider myself an expert on taking numerous classes. Jay Warmke’s warm and thorough approach to the instruction of photovoltaic installation exceeded my expectations in every way. His patience and perseverance left the entire class feeling as if no question was a stupid question and he complimented the classroom setting with his extremely funny sense of humor. I wholeheartedly recommend taking any of his or his wonderful wife Annie’s classes you may be interested in, with no reservations."

https://solarpvtraining.com/testimonials/173/

"It really helped me to re-assess our plan - better determine our household system. Great instructor! Easy to understand, stops and explains whenever needed. Jay is extremely effective and makes learning easy. All I knew beforehand was that I wanted solar, now I know what I want, but more importantly, what I can afford."

OEFFA Session, Columbus, OH

Textbooks, Training, Certification, Instructor Materials

2018-12-02T23:00:40-05:00

OEFFA Session, Columbus, OH

"It really helped me to re-assess our plan - better determine our household system. Great instructor! Easy to understand, stops and explains whenever needed. Jay is extremely effective and makes learning easy. All I knew beforehand was that I wanted solar, now I know what I want, but more importantly, what I can afford."

https://solarpvtraining.com/testimonials/174/

"Jay - we have power! Thanks so much for your course - never would have tackled it without your teaching and encouragement. It was a challenge for me in several ways (including wet spring) but am now so happy to be through it! A 2-decade dream come true!"

Louis Iverson, Radnor, OH

Textbooks, Training, Certification, Instructor Materials

2018-12-02T23:08:31-05:00

Louis Iverson, Radnor, OH

"Jay - we have power! Thanks so much for your course - never would have tackled it without your teaching and encouragement. It was a challenge for me in several ways (including wet spring) but am now so happy to be through it! A 2-decade dream come true!"

https://solarpvtraining.com/testimonials/175/

"The day spent at the Akron Zoo workshop was outstanding! Like most adults 50 years old, I have endured too many soul draining seminars and workshops in search of knowledge and enlightenment. Your workshop was awesome! The combination of "tech speak" combined with man on the street explanation was a perfect fit for me. Thank you for an informative, entertaining and valuable workshop."

Dan Arthur

Textbooks, Training, Certification, Instructor Materials

2018-12-02T23:09:39-05:00

Dan Arthur

"The day spent at the Akron Zoo workshop was outstanding! Like most adults 50 years old, I have endured too many soul draining seminars and workshops in search of knowledge and enlightenment. Your workshop was awesome! The combination of "tech speak" combined with man on the street explanation was a perfect fit for me. Thank you for an informative, entertaining and valuable workshop."

https://solarpvtraining.com/testimonials/176/

"I had a wonderful time at your seminar. I was able to meet like minded people who are enthusiastic about the same issues and doing the same types of sustainable projects. The amount of the information that was given was tremendous. You kept the us entertained and engaged the entire day."

Matthew Corbett, Cleveland, OH

Textbooks, Training, Certification, Instructor Materials

2018-12-02T23:10:52-05:00

Matthew Corbett, Cleveland, OH

"I had a wonderful time at your seminar. I was able to meet like minded people who are enthusiastic about the same issues and doing the same types of sustainable projects. The amount of the information that was given was tremendous. You kept the us entertained and engaged the entire day."

https://solarpvtraining.com/testimonials/177/

Stewart Brand wrote "We are as gods and me might as well get good at it" in the first Whole Earth Catalog. Well Jay is good at it. He has interpreted the technical, governmental and human nature involved in designing solar voltaic systems to be understandable. The first day really sucked me in with Jay's views of the energy business and reinforced my thoughts on the topic. His teaching method was spot on with this complicated subject. Jay broke each section down so it could be understood. He would often digress into some humorous stories that often had me laughing. Solar technology is changing rapidly and Jay gave us many ways to keep up with it. The price of the class will be paid back many times over the next few years.

Jon Branstrator, Clarksville, OH

Textbooks, Training, Certification, Instructor Materials

2018-12-02T23:12:19-05:00

Jon Branstrator, Clarksville, OH

Stewart Brand wrote "We are as gods and me might as well get good at it" in the first Whole Earth Catalog. Well Jay is good at it. He has interpreted the technical, governmental and human nature involved in designing solar voltaic systems to be understandable. The first day really sucked me in with Jay's views of the energy business and reinforced my thoughts on the topic. His teaching method was spot on with this complicated subject. Jay broke each section down so it could be understood. He would often digress into some humorous stories that often had me laughing. Solar technology is changing rapidly and Jay gave us many ways to keep up with it. The price of the class will be paid back many times over the next few years.

https://solarpvtraining.com/testimonials/178/

"Thank you Jay. You were a GREAT instructor! I hope to someday have the opportunity to work with you again in the future."

Scott Hackney, Bright Spot Wind and Solar

Textbooks, Training, Certification, Instructor Materials

2018-12-02T15:13:11-05:00

Scott Hackney, Bright Spot Wind and Solar

"Thank you Jay. You were a GREAT instructor! I hope to someday have the opportunity to work with you again in the future."

https://solarpvtraining.com/testimonials/158/

"Just wanted to say you're the best teacher I have ever had and that just the experience I had in your class and the things I learned from you will carry on in my life. Thanks a lot and I am so happy I got to meet you. Thanks again and I will keep in contact."

Robert Anderson, Wooster, OH

Textbooks, Training, Certification, Instructor Materials

2018-12-02T23:14:02-05:00

Robert Anderson, Wooster, OH

"Just wanted to say you're the best teacher I have ever had and that just the experience I had in your class and the things I learned from you will carry on in my life. Thanks a lot and I am so happy I got to meet you. Thanks again and I will keep in contact."

https://solarpvtraining.com/testimonials/179/

"I definitely walked away empowered technically, but the additional benefit of having a deeper context around the why of solar power, and its significance in our energy evolution. Your passion and commitment to the cause comes through in your delivery of the class, and your willingness to engage each of us, despite a variety of technical levels, really lowered the barrier to effective learning."

Vince Weseli, Cincinnati, OH

Textbooks, Training, Certification, Instructor Materials

2018-12-02T15:25:15-05:00

Vince Weseli, Cincinnati, OH

"I definitely walked away empowered technically, but the additional benefit of having a deeper context around the why of solar power, and its significance in our energy evolution. Your passion and commitment to the cause comes through in your delivery of the class, and your willingness to engage each of us, despite a variety of technical levels, really lowered the barrier to effective learning."

https://solarpvtraining.com/testimonials/161/

"Thank-you very much for the wonderful workshop last week. It was well worth the time and money. You are a wonderful teacher and did a great job packing in a ton of content."

Howard Plevyak Jr., Cincinnati, OH

Textbooks, Training, Certification, Instructor Materials

2018-12-02T23:15:45-05:00

Howard Plevyak Jr., Cincinnati, OH

"Thank-you very much for the wonderful workshop last week. It was well worth the time and money. You are a wonderful teacher and did a great job packing in a ton of content."

https://solarpvtraining.com/testimonials/180/

"That was a very useful and informative class. Your teaching style was excellent. I haven't sat in a class for this long in 35 years. You kept the class interesting and interactive."

Sugu Suguness, Cincinnati, OH

Textbooks, Training, Certification, Instructor Materials

2018-12-02T22:47:32-05:00

Sugu Suguness, Cincinnati, OH

"That was a very useful and informative class. Your teaching style was excellent. I haven't sat in a class for this long in 35 years. You kept the class interesting and interactive."

https://solarpvtraining.com/testimonials/165/

"I appreciated you keeping us on track and working in the hands-on activities to solidify the book and classroom instruction. That was a perfectly designed learning lab for me!"

Howard Plevyak Jr., Cincinnati, OH

Textbooks, Training, Certification, Instructor Materials

2018-12-02T23:16:31-05:00

Howard Plevyak Jr., Cincinnati, OH

"I appreciated you keeping us on track and working in the hands-on activities to solidify the book and classroom instruction. That was a perfectly designed learning lab for me!"

https://solarpvtraining.com/testimonials/181/

Textbooks, Training, Certification, Instructor Materials