Chapter 1 Archives - Textbooks, Training, Certification, Instructor Materials

Chapter 1: Introduction to Photovoltaics

Chapter Objectives: Become familiar with the recent growth in PV installations. Understand the scope of and reasons for the dramatic decline in PV system prices in recent years. Explore the various incentive programs used to promote the adoption of PV

Chapter 1: Introduction to Photovoltaics

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

"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/

"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/

Textbooks, Training, Certification, Instructor Materials