This course offers you advanced knowledge within the field of photovoltaic system technology. We'll learn about the solar resource and how photovoltaic energy conversion is used to produce electric power. From this fundamental starting point we'll cover the design and fabrication of different solar cell and module technologies, the various photovoltaic system components, how to design a photovoltaic plant and carry out energy yield simulations, essentials in energy economics, O&M and reliability assessment, as well as the role of photovoltaic energy in sustainable energy systems.
Photovoltaic Systems
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4.6
(147 reviews)
Intermediate level
Recommended experience
11 hours to complete
3 weeks at 3 hours a week
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace
What you'll learn
Photovoltaic Energy Conversion
Modelling of the Solar Resource
Photovoltaic System Design and Energy Yield Simulations
Photovoltaic System Components
Skills you'll gain
Details to know
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Assessments
12 assignments
Taught in English
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There are 5 modules in this course
These lectures serve as an introduction to the field of photovoltaics in general, which includes the most basic terminology, an overview of the history of PV as well as the industrial deployment of the technology.
What's included
4 videos1 assignment
These lectures cover the physics of the solar resource as well as various irradiance models to calculate the optimal tilt angle necessary for maximizing PV power production.
What's included
5 videos1 assignment1 plugin
These lectures cover the physics necessary for understanding the working principles of solar cells, as well as an introduction to electrical characterization and modelling of photovoltaic devices.
What's included
8 videos3 assignments
These lectures cover the principles of cell interconnection and properties of various module components necessary for designing and fabricating photovoltaic modules. Optional content is provided dealing with the environmental variables impacting the performance of PV modules in the field.
What's included
8 videos3 assignments1 plugin
What's included
13 videos4 assignments
Instructors
Instructor ratings
4.5 (66 ratings)
Offered by
Recommended if you're interested in Environmental Science and Sustainability
University of Colorado System
Coursera Instructor Network
Coursera Instructor Network
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4.6
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Frequently asked questions
Access to lectures and assignments depends on your type of enrollment. If you take a course in audit mode, you will be able to see most course materials for free. To access graded assignments and to earn a Certificate, you will need to purchase the Certificate experience, during or after your audit. If you don't see the audit option:
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