| SES # | TOPICS | KEY DATES |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Introduction Types of Photovoltaic Systems History of PV Technology Development Current Status: Technology, Policy, Markets | |
| 2 | The Solar Resource Solar Geometry - Direct Beam Flux onto a Surface "In Space" Earth-bound Flux - Kt, the "Clearness Index" | Exercise #1 due |
| 3 | The Solar Resource (cont.) Database - US Sites Monthly Average Daily Insolation, TMY Data | |
| 4 | The Photovoltaic Module Current-voltage Characteristics, Insolation, Temperature Effects Module Efficiency, Module Rating, "Full Sun Hours" Output | Exercise #2 due |
| 5 | Photovoltaic Array Performance Series, Parallel Module Networking, Diode Placement Output as Function of Array Orientation, Tracking | |
| 6 | Stand-alone System Elements Energy Storage, Battery Characteristics Load Requirements Charge Control, Max. Power Tracking, Load Management | Exercise #3 due |
| 7 | Stand-alone System Sizing First Order Estimation of Average Daily Performance | |
| 8 | Stand-alone System Sizing (cont.) Probability of Loss of Load - Markov Process Model | Exercise #4 due |
| 9 | Stand-alone System Sizing (cont.) Effect of Day-to-day Correlation | |
| 10 | Evaluation of PV Station Data Solar Resource Module Output - Temperature Effects | |
| 11 | Grid-connected Systems Power Conditioning Utility Constraints | |
| 12 | Grid-connected Systems (cont.) Architectural/Structural Considerations | |
| 13 | PV Cost/Benefit Calculations Net Present Value - Ex: Almeda County Megawatt Facility Government Subsidies and Incentives | Exercise #5 due |
| 14 | Student Presentations | Final report due |