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design calculation and selection for Photovoltaic (PV) systems syllabus
Here's a structured syllabus for Design Calculation and Selection for Photovoltaic (PV) Systems, covering key
topics for a comprehensive course:
Course Title: Design Calculation and Selection for Photovoltaic
(PV) Systems
Duration: 12–16 Weeks (Theory + Practical)
Level: Undergraduate/Postgraduate/Professional Certification
Module 1: Introduction to PV Systems
1.1 Overview of Solar Energy and PV Technology
1.2 Types of PV Systems:
Grid-Tied
Off-Grid (Standalone)
Hybrid Systems
1.3 Applications of PV Systems
Module 2: Solar Radiation and Site Assessment
2.1 Solar Irradiance Concepts:
Global Horizontal Irradiance (GHI)
Direct Normal Irradiance (DNI)
Diffuse Horizontal Irradiance (DHI)
2.2 Solar Geometry & Tilt Angle Optimization
2.3 Shading Analysis & Tools (Solar Pathfinder, PVsyst)
2.4 Site Selection Criteria
Module 3: PV System Components & Selection
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3.1 PV Modules:
Types (Monocrystalline, Polycrystalline, Thin-Film)
Electrical Characteristics (I-V Curve, MPPT)
Efficiency & Temperature Effects
3.2 Inverters:
Types (String, Micro, Central)
Selection Criteria (Efficiency, Voltage Range)
3.3 Batteries (for Off-Grid Systems):
Lead-Acid vs. Lithium-Ion
Sizing & Depth of Discharge (DoD)
3.4 Charge Controllers:
PWM vs. MPPT
3.5 Mounting Structures & Balance of System (BOS)
Module 4: Design Calculations
4.1 Load Assessment & Energy Demand Estimation
4.2 PV Array Sizing:
Peak Sun Hours Method
System Voltage Selection (12V, 24V, 48V)
4.3 Battery Bank Sizing (for Off-Grid):
Days of Autonomy
C-Rate & Efficiency
4.4 Inverter & Charge Controller Sizing
4.5 Cable Sizing & Voltage Drop Calculation
4.6 Protection Devices (Fuses, Breakers, SPDs)
Module 5: System Performance & Losses
5.1 Loss Factors:
Temperature Losses
Mismatch Losses
Wiring & Inverter Losses
5.2 Performance Ratio (PR) & Yield Estimation
5.3 Degradation Over Time
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Module 6: Software Tools for PV Design
6.1 PV*SOL, PVsyst, Helioscope
6.2 SAM (System Advisor Model)
6.3 AutoCAD & SketchUp for Layout Design
Module 7: Financial & Economic Analysis
7.1 Cost Estimation (CAPEX vs. OPEX)
7.2 Payback Period & ROI
7.3 Government Incentives & Net Metering
Module 8: Case Studies & Practical Design Projects
8.1 Residential PV System Design
8.2 Commercial Rooftop System
8.3 Solar Pumping System
8.4 Mini-Grid Design
Assessment Methods:
Quizzes & Assignments
PV System Design Project (Software-Based)
Final Exam (Theoretical + Numerical Problems)
Recommended Textbooks & References:
1. Solar Photovoltaic Systems – Chetan Singh Solanki
2. Photovoltaic Systems Engineering – Roger A. Messenger & Jerry Ventre
3. Solar Electricity Handbook – Michael Boxwell
4. NREL & IEC Standards (IEC 61215, IEC 61730)
This syllabus ensures a balance of theory, calculations, and hands-on design for students/professionals entering
the solar energy sector. Would you like modifications based on a specific focus (e.g., utility-scale vs. residential)?
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