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U.S. Department of Energy Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy

Selecting, Implementing, and Funding Photovoltaic Systems in Federal Facilities

On Demand Training

3.5 hours

FEMP e-training

This course covers PV technologies typically installed at Federal sites along with installation options, PV module ratings and testing, and warranties. Roof vs. ground mounted PV arrays, fixed vs. tracked PV arrays, and other options are discussed in terms of logistical, technical, and economic considerations.

The instructor for this course is Andy Walker, Principal Engineer, National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). Dr. Walker conducts engineering and economic analysis of energy efficiency and renewable energy projects for FEMP and other non-governmental clients and specializes in assisting various organizations to plan renewable energy projects. Dr. Walker is an instructor and has authored more than 28 book chapters, journal articles, and papers. He holds a bachelor's of science degree, a master's of science degree, and a doctorate degree in mechanical engineering from Colorado State University and is a registered Professional Engineer in the State of Colorado.

Assisting Dr. Walker with this course are:

  • Otto Van Geet, Senior Engineer, National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL)
  • Sarah Kurtz, Principal Scientist, Reliability Group Manager, National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL)

Learning Objectives

By completing this course you will learn to:

  • evaluate the main types of PV materials and technologies and the basic components that comprise a typical PV system;
  • predict a site's available solar resources and apply technologies to produce the maximum amount of electricity;
  • interpret manufacturer performance ratings, understand environmental impacts on output, and assess warranty options and performance guarantees to protect investment;
  • plan installation, including site feasibility, land ownership and land use, road access, electrical lines, interconnection issues, and environmental and cultural compliance;
  • conduct preliminary screening, feasibility studies, and procurement strategies;
  • evaluate incentives and rebates, tariff changes and standby charges, and renewable energy certificates; and
  • select project funding options, including energy savings performance contracts, utility energy service contracts, on-site renewable power.

This e-learning course is hosted on the Whole Building Design Guide (WBDG) learning management system. To take the course, click the Start button below. Then log into the WBDG system to launch the course and take the multiple choice assessment. Students will earn .40 FEMP CEUs upon successful completion of the course and assessment.

In partnership with Whole Buildings Design Guide, a program of the National Institute of Building Sciences.

Instructor(s):

  • Dr. Andy Walker, Principal Engineer, National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). Read bio.
Take the Training
Length: 3.5 hours

Help

For assistance, please contact Beverly Dyer, FEMP training lead, at beverly.dyer@ee.doe.gov or at 202-586-7753.

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