Solar PV

By completing this scenario it is expected that learners will:

• Gather information from the customer.
• Inspect panel area.
• Inspect gable end.
• Inspect consumer unit.
• Inspect board.
• Inspect documents.
• Discuss system with customer.
• Inspect loft wall.

By completing this scenario it is expected that learners will:

• Inspect PV module.
• Inspect array mounting system.
• Inspect consumer unit.
• Inspect AC isolator.
• Inspect AC wiring.
• Inspect inverter.
• Inspect DC wiring and connections.
• Inspect DC isolator.
• Inspect DC junction box.
• Inspect cable insulation.

By completing this module it is expected that learners will:

• Describe the availability of solar energy in the UK and Ireland.
• Explain how PV materials can capture solar energy to create electricity.
• Describe the importance of PV system design on the efficiency of a solar PV system.
• Identify the building regulations relevant to solar PV systems.

By completing this module it is expected that learners will:

• Relevant Health and Safety legislation applies in the workplace.
• Procedures for dealing with Health and Safety in the work environment.
• Procedures for establishing a safe working environment.
• The requirements for identifying and dealing with hazards in the work environment.

By completing this module it is expected that learners will:

• Explain basic electrical principles used in solar PV systems.
• Describe the importance of electrical isolation within solar PV systems.
• Describe the main differences between grid-connected and stand-alone solar PV systems.

By completing this module it is expected that learners will:

• Describe the different types of solar PV materials available.
• Describe the relative efficiencies of PV materials.
• List the materials from which PV modules may be constructed.
• Describe at least 3 different applications for solar.

By completing this module it is expected that learners will:

• List the components found within solar PV systems.
• Describe the function and purpose of each item.
• Describe the components of a typical stand-alone solar PV system.
• Describe the components of a typical solar PV system exporting to the national grid.

By completing this module it is expected that learners will:

• Know how much solar energy is available for that location.
• Know the household electrical energy requirement.
• Calculate the size of the PV modules required to meet requirements.
• Determine the options available within budget.

By completing this module it is expected that learners will:

• Describe the pre-installation checks that must be carried out.
• Identify the authorisation required for the work to proceed.
• Identify the requirements for inspection and testing of existing electrical installations.
• Describe the arrangements possible for the arrays of solar panels (single and multiple strings).
• Describe the importance of roof strength for on/in roof installations.
• Identify the internal siting of key components.

By completing this module it is expected that learners will:

• Identify the requirements for handling, moving and storing solar PV panels.
• Describe the requirements for fixing ‘on and in roof’ systems and using secondary frame structures.
• List the safety features that must be considered when installing solar PV systems.
• Describe the requirements for fire & weatherproofing, ventilation and cables when installing solar PV systems.
• Explain the particular importance of electrical safety when installing grid tied systems (electrical safety is important for all systems).

By completing this module it is expected that learners will:

• Describe the effects of system exposure to excessive voltage, current, or frequency events.
• Describe techniques and components to protect the DC circuit from excessive voltage and current events.
• Describe techniques and components to protect the AC circuit from excessive voltage and current events.

By completing this module it is expected that learners will:

• List the requirements to commission a solar PV system.
• Identify the conditions required to commission a solar PV system.
• List the requirements to test and commission the ac circuit within a solar PV system.
• List the requirements to test and commission the dc circuit within a solar PV system.
• Describe the relevant regulatory requirements with respect to the manufacturer’s requirements.

By completing this module it is expected that learners will:

• Describe the handover procedure.
• List the required information to be given and demonstrated to the client.
• Identify the performance monitoring required for the system.
• List the expected maintenance required for the system.