Micro Solar Photovoltaic Systems Implementation

• Describe the main p-v cell technologies including the characteristics, configurations, and components of solar p-v systems

• Describe factors affecting solar p-v output to include tilt, orientation, over shading and p-v module mismatch

• Describe the relationship between rated output at standard test conditions and actual output in use

• Summarise the planning requirements for solar p-v installations including any possible exemptions

• Summarise relevant legislation, standards and regulation to include CE marking and New Approach 2 directives, product testing and certification standards and building regulations

• Describe maintenance requirements for solar p-v systems to include cleaning, checking torque of fixing bolts and visual inspection of array integrity and electrical connections

• Propose an appropriate mounting technique based on aerodynamic and static load considerations

• Describe the potential hazards and mitigating action associated with solar p-v operation to include electrical hazards, “always live” systems, labeling and signage requirements and fixing of panels

• Describe the relevant health and safety requirements for installation to include working at height, securing ladders, safety requirements for scaffolds, guard rails and personal safety equipment

• Describe the recommended installation sequence for solar p-v systems identifying relevant standards and guidelines applicable to each phase of installation

• Outline the main considerations for roof-mounted solar p-v systems including roof types, construction, loading, integrity and weather proofing

• Assess roof loading and load bearing capacity and recommend suitable mounting and weather sealing techniques

• Use the recommended tools for deploying all required solar p-v system components in accordance with manufacturer’s specification

• Carry out a feasibility study for solar p-v system to include a resource assessment and economic evaluation

• Generate a design layout for a solar p-v system to include a specification of array location, mounting techniques, cable runs and inverter location

• Assess the conformance of a solar p-v system in accordance with standards for module fixings, fixing of the array, weather proofing, and integrity of the array

• Test a solar p-v installation to include normal shutdown, emergency shutdown, and power control against solar intensity

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Micro-Generator Electrical Installation

• Describe key characteristics of micro-generation systems including the major components and system layout of wind, solar p-v (photo-voltaic), hydro- and micro-CHP (combined heat and power) systems

• Identify the characteristics of generator types to include permanent magnet, induction, synchronous and asynchronous

• Describe solar p-v module types and arrays to include current-voltage characteristics, open circuit voltage, short circuit current, maximum power current and voltage

• Describe wind turbine types to include variable voltage and frequency output

• Describe output controls on wind generator to include dump loads and electrical braking

• Summarise the requirements for electrical works with respect to applicable regulations, certification, and national rules for electrical installation

• Summarise relevant product requirements including those relating to European conformity CE marking, and testing and certification standards

• Identify hazards associated with micro-generation installations to include “always live” systems, leakage current detection, earthing and lightning protection systems and isolation devices, proposing suitable mitigation measures

• Describe network connection requirements including the network connection application process

• Summarise appropriate signage and labelling requirements as per the National Rules for Electrical Installations to include identification of cable locations and “always live” systems.

• Justify the selection of a suitable battery system based on sizing and safety requirements as per IS EN 50272-2

• Calculate recommended minimum capacities for electrical components including voltage and current ratings for direct current plugs, connectors and switches, and cable capacity based on size

• Program inverters with generator power curves in accordance with manufacturer’s specifications and set-up instructions

• Commission a solar p-v system completing all required electrical testing

• Commission a simulated rotating generator system completing all required electrical testing

• Identify faults in solar p-v and rotating generator systems using test and measurement equipment.

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Suitability

Micro Solar Photovoltaic Systems Implementation

Learners must hold a minimum Level 5 Certificate / Ordinary Level Leaving Certificate. You should have previously completed a relevant Level 5 award.

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Micro-Generator Electrical Installation

Learners must be a registered electrical contractors with RECI (Register of Electrical Contractors of Ireland).