PV304: Solar Training - Advanced PV Stand-alone System Design (Battery-Based)

  • duration
  • Contact Hours
  • tuition

The PV industry began with off-grid systems, and with so many new applications for stand­-alone power, equipment advancements and cost reductions, the energy storage sector is growing like never before. This advanced course covers detailed load analysis, charge controllers, PV array sizing, stand-­alone inverters, as well as numerous design examples that address the wide-ranging specifics of off­-grid applications. Also covered is generator sizing and integration, maintenance for stand-­alone systems, National Electrical Code (NEC®) requirements, and a healthy dose of best practices that have been learned through years of experience. Advance your PV knowledge well beyond where the grid goes!   For online sessions of this course please click here.

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  • Stand-alone system configurations
  • Charge controller and array considerations
  • RV system design example
  • DC lighting system design example
  • Clinic system design example
  • Code compliance and best practices for stand-alone systems
  • Advanced battery-based inverters
  • Generator sizing
  • DC coupled stand-alone residential system design example
  • AC coupled stand-alone microgrid system design example
  • Large-scale microgrid considerations and case studies
  • Flooded battery maintenance considerations
  • Stand-alone PV system commissioning and maintenance

Note: SEI recommends working closely with a qualified person and/or taking PV 202 for more information on conductor sizing, electrical panel specification, and grounding systems. These topics will part of this course, but they are not the focus.

PREREQUISITE COURSES: Before participating in PV304, students MUST complete PV101 or PVOL101 AND PVOL203 or PV203, equivalent training from another organization, have NABCEP certification, or demonstrate field experience and pass two placement quizzes. Please contact sei@solarenergy.org if you feel you are qualified to skip the prerequisite for PV304.

For online sessions of PV304 please click here.

For information on SEI’s workshop and training program policies please click here.

WORKSHOP AND TRAINING PROGRAM POLICIES

2020-2021 Complete School Catalog
Políticas de Capacitación

Solar Energy International (SEI) is approved and regulated by the Colorado Department of Higher Education, Division of Private Occupational Schools.* 

Enrollment:  Prospective students may enroll anytime.  Late enrollments will be accepted on an individual basis for online courses, and the first day of class for in-person and hands-on labs courses.  Enrollment is on a first-come basis and class sizes are limited. To reserve a space you can register online or call in to register at 970-527-7657 option 1 and make payment in full. If you are sending a check, call first to check on availability and to let us know that you are sending payment.

Lodging & Logistics:  SEI’s main campus and Lab Facility is in Paonia, Colorado.  For detailed info about Paonia click here.  Many of our workshops are held in other parts of the country and the world. We now also have a lab facility in Costa Rica and the Middle East as well. Local logistics and lodging for each workshop venue are available on the location page for each workshop. More information will also be sent to registered students upon confirmation of registration.

Waiting List:  If a workshop is full we will place you on the waiting list. There is no charge to be on the waiting list. If space becomes available, we contact the first person on the list. You then have 24 hours to register before we move on to the next person.

Cancellation & Refund Policies:  Students not accepted to the school are entitled to all moneys paid.  Students who cancel this contract by notifying the school within three (3) business days (*of original registration) are entitled to a full refund of all tuition and fees paid.  Students, who withdraw after three (3) business days, but before commencement of classes, are entitled to a full refund of all tuition and fees paid except the maximum cancellation charge of $150.00 or 25% of the contract price, whichever is less.  In the case of students withdrawing after commencement of classes, the school will retain a cancellation charge plus a percentage of tuition and fees, which is based on the percentage of contact hours attended (if training is offered as distance education: “based on the percentage of no. of lessons completed”)*.  The refund is based on the official date of termination or formal documented withdrawal.  Please visit ‘Complete school catalog’ link above for full cancellation information and refund table.  If you are unable to complete your course due to illness or natural disaster, please contact the administration office.

If SEI Cancels a Class: In the event a class is cancelled for a reason beyond SEI’s control, SEI will work with the student to reschedule them into future online or in-person classes at no fee. Any remaining credit will be held for up to two years in this situation. If a student chooses not to reschedule for a future online or in-person class, and instead would like a tuition refund, then SEI will charge a cancellation charge of $150.00 or 25% of the contract price, whichever is less. SEI is not responsible for losses incurred on housing, travel or other arrangements.

Entrance Requirements:  SEI is an open enrollment training organization.  However, students still must meet the prerequisites for any course(s) for which they would like to register. Additionally, if a student wishes to be considered for admission into the SEI Solar Professionals Certificate Program, a separate application for admission is required. This program is a selective admissions program where we ask students to complete an application that requires an essay where they can indicate their dedication to successful program completion and their relevant  transferable skills that would make them a good candidate for this rigorous training program. Please see application for details, https://www.solarenergy.org/sei-solar-professionals-certificate-program/.  The school does not discriminate based on race, sex, religion, ethnic origin, or disability.  By completing the SEI enrollment agreement, all students agree to comply with the requirements and directions of the training and supply any information that is relevant to safety and medical issues.  Additionally, students completing this enrollment agreement attest to the fact that he or she is physically capable of performing all requirements of the training and agree to comply with all safety regulations and directions given by instructional staff.

Online Course Requirements: By registering for online courses you confirm that you have basic computer literacy skills needed to take an online course. This includes the ability for internet usage, browser based applications, word processing, and email applications. You also confirm that you have consistent and reliable access to high speed internet and a computer. Click here for further online course information.

Previous Credits:  Credits from another institution will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.  SEI only allows the transfer of a PV101 equivalent course with the same amount of contact hours and learning objectives as SEI’s PV101 course.    The student may be asked to provide a transcript, certificate of completion, course catalog, link to the course description from the transferring school’s website showing equivalent course, or may be required to take a PV101 opt-out quiz to prove proficiency of course material. SEI does not guarantee transferability of our credits to another institution unless there is an articulated agreement with another institution.

Attendance / Online Course Progress Requirements:  Students are expected to arrive on time for class with proper materials. Instructors may request your withdrawal from a course or program if absences or tardiness exceed 50%.  In the SEI Online Campus, course participation and acceptable progress is determined by attempting ALL graded activities with a passing grade of 70% or higher averaged across all graded activities.   Students who are unable to continue classes for medical reasons or severe personal problems will be required to take a leave of absence until they are able to return to class.  Proper documentation will be required and a formal request for withdrawal will be required to substantiate a student’s withdrawal request.

Progress Policy:  Students must maintain a 70% or higher grade point average to complete the SEI Solar Professionals Certificate Program.  Those who do not, will be given an opportunity to retake courses, for a retake fee of ½ the original tuition price of each course.  The retake option is available anytime within one year of original course start date. The student may be dropped from the program if acceptable progress is not satisfactory after multiple attempts to pass a course.  Dropping of a student from the SEI Solar Professionals Certificate Program shall be at the school Director’s discretion.  The Executive Director has final authority and shall notify the student of the final decision.

Financial Assistance:  SEI has a limited number of partial tuition scholarships available for international and low-income participants. We also offer a work/trade program for people taking 8 weeks or more of workshops.  Click here for additional info.

Placement Assistance:  Solar Energy International (SEI) offers employment assistance to graduates, consisting of job lead referrals and job skills development.  While providing resources to help you in your job search, we make no guarantee, expressed or implied, of future employment.  Current law prohibits any school from guaranteeing job placement as an inducement to enroll students.

Conduct Policy:  All students are expected to act maturely and are required to respect other students and faculty members.  Possession of weapons, illegal drugs, and alcohol of any kind are not allowed at any time on school property.  Any violation of school policies may result in permanent dismissal from school.

Dismissal:  Any student may be dismissed for violations of rules and regulations of the school, as set forth in school publications.  A student also may be withdrawn from classes if he or she does not prepare sufficiently, neglects assignments, or makes unsatisfactory progress.  The Executive Director, after consultation with all parties involved, makes the final decision.  The Executive Director may temporarily suspend students whose conduct is disruptive or unacceptable to the academic setting.  After appropriate counseling, students who demonstrate a genuine desire to learn and conform to school standards of conduct, may be allowed to resume attendance.  The Executive Director will review each case and decide upon re-admittance.

Student Grievance Procedure:  If a student has a grievance regarding any SEI policy or staff member they should contact, via email, SEI’s Executive Director, Elizabeth Sanderson at esanderson@solarenergy.org.  Students should first discuss any instructional grievances directly with their instructor. If unable to come to a mutually acceptable conclusion, students should contact, via email, SEI’s Executive Director, Elizabeth Sanderson at esanderson@solarenergy.org for in-person and hands-on lab courses.   For SEI Online Campus courses contact via email, SEI’s Online Course Manager, Scott Martin at scott@solarenergy.org. Final decisions may be appealed to SEI’s Executive Director, Elizabeth Sanderson at esanderson@solarenergy.org.  Once a grievance is submitted via email to the Executive Director, within one week, she will investigate the grievance and arrange an appointment if necessary with the student for discussion. Every effort will be made to resolve any grievance in a timely manner.

Student Complaints:  Attempting to resolve any issue with the School first is strongly encouraged.  Student Complaints may be brought to the attention of the Division of Private Occupational Schools online at http://highered.colorado.gov/dpos ,303 862-3001. There is a two-year statute of limitations for the Division to take action on a student complaint (from student’s last day of attendance).

SEI Contact Training Hours: 5 days in person = 40 hours

This course provides approved credit hours towards the following NABCEP Certifications and Recertifications:

  • PV Installation Professional
  • PV Design Specialist
  • PV Installation Specialist
  • PV Commissioning and Maintenance Specialist
  • PV Technical Sales Professional
  • PV Associate (Renewal only)
  • PV System Inspector (Recertification only)
  • SH Associate (Renewal only)
  • Solar Heating System Inspector (Recertification only)
  • Solar Heating Installer (Recertification only)

Please visit NABCEP’S online course catalog for credit hours breakdown.

For information on SEI’s Solar Professionals Certificate Program please click here.

more on nabcep certification > sei's solar professionals certificate program info >


For all in-person classes (classroom based and lab classes) students are provided with a course notebook which includes all the presentations, exercises, quizzes, answers, and other resources depending on the particular course. For classroom based classes (PV101, PV202, PV203, and PV303), students are also provided a digital copy of the notebook as well.

You may want to have your copy of the Solar Electric Handbook on hand from your PV101 or PVOL101 course.

B Payne
B Payne

1708287313
I’ve taken a battery-based certificate course and some CE through SEI and have always finished feeling much more knowledgeable and confident in my work.

Bobby Ragsdale
Bobby Ragsdale

1707842631
Prior to taking the SEI PVOL101 course, I had very little knowledge of electrical, and even less of solar. After completing the course, I feel I am well equipped to begin my new career in the solar industry!

Michael Burns
Michael Burns

1707770793
The courses I’ve completed were challenging and extremely helpful in my current role as PV technical asset manager.

Adel Ghouari
Adel Ghouari

1707587483
I strongly encourage those who wish to start a training or deepen their knowledge in the field of solar energy to enroll and embark on this adventure. I am very satisfied with this training where I have taken courses titled PVOL101, RE100, and RE101. It’s truly magnificent, with presentations, videos, discussions with experts in the field, etc. In short, knowledge is at your disposal, as well as interactive activities. Do not hesitate, it is profitable from the first contact! Thanks SEI!!-Adel Ghouari

Kumah Albert
Kumah Albert

1707520306
Am very glad that I had that opportunity from SEI to acquire such a great skill and knowledge and my greatest desire to take the all the different stages of courses both theoretical and hands on lab to be fully qualified and an associate of SEI

David Kirk
David Kirk

1706810892
SEI is a fantastic organization offering comprehensive training courses for solar industry professionals or those who are wanting to be introduced to the world of solar!

Adel Ghouari
Adel Ghouari

1706475084
SEI (Solar Energy International) is an opportunity for someone who wants to learn about renewable energies, standards, both thermal and photovoltaic solar energy, maintenace, etc. For me, SEI is an opportunity to delve deeper into RE sources. Thanks to SEI, I found answers to several questions I had during my PhD thesis.There’s a lot to delve into and plenty of opportunities. Don’t hesitate to get them.

SunForge Energy
SunForge Energy

1702270553
I am a HUGE advocate of proper education in the solar industry. Everyone working in solar should MINIMALLY take the PVOL101 course, it is excellent.

Ameer Abbas
Ameer Abbas

1701064230
I really learn a lot, some of the explanation heard first time in this session..like photovoltivs instead of FO-TOE-VOLE-TAY-ICKS and MALT ..

Isaiah Adeibukun
Isaiah Adeibukun

1700685087
I am glad to be a student of Solar Energy International.The best online training center with a lot of very loaded and experienced instructors, making PV system simple to understand.Now I can bodly say I a trained Solar Power System Engineer!Have never seen any other best platform like this.I hope to attend the on-site training for labs in nearest future.SEI, You are the best !

Isaiah Adeibukun
Isaiah Adeibukun

1696454956
I am glad to be a student of Solar Energy International. My life has never been the same since I joined this school.The best online training center with a lot of very loaded and experienced instructors, making PV system simple to understand.Have never seen any other best platform like this.I hope to attend the on-site training for labs in nearest future.SEI, You are the best !

Wymah Youyoubon S.
Wymah Youyoubon S.

1694974522
As you may be aware of the global energy challenge and want to work in a field that will enable me to assist in the delivery of renewable energy to homes and businesses, I am encouraged to consider pursuing a career in solar energy through Solar Energy International (SEI).

Emily Critz
Emily Critz

1694837906
The company I work for signed me up for PVOL101 just to help develop my knowledge of PV systems, and I’m so grateful they did. All of the SEI instructors are not only a wealth of knowledge, but are also excellent teachers.I can’t recommend this course highly enough to anybody interested in improving their understanding of PV systems.

K Smith
K Smith

1694837388
PVOL101 was such a great online class. It was well-executed and timely. I am very much looking forward to my next SEI course!All of the instructors provide such incredible insight/knowledge to this wonderfully growing industry.

Leland Durrette
Leland Durrette

1694818992
Top notch training facility! Professional, good volume of material, presented in an easy to understand and follow method. Well worth the education.

Pedro Gautier
Pedro Gautier

1694479075
Very well organized curse with lot of useful information. Very high qualified instructors. Very Good Experience.

Chris George
Chris George

1693516945
This free introductory course in Renewable Energy was well-organized, solid, and comprehensive (in scope). I highly recommend it!

Bobby Weske
Bobby Weske

1691362630
SEI makes these daunting PV subjects much easier to approach and understand. Their ability to organize all of the the material and lessons into this platform allows for a great learning experience. Thanks, SEI!

Snail Powered
Snail Powered

1690990136
I just finished the RE100 free course online and it was far better than I expected. I have done many online trainings that were mostly a waste of time and I found this to be very good, even for the portions that I was familiar with the content I found the course engaging and improving my knowledge.I just completed the PVOL101 course and my experience in the RE100 course was confirmed. I look forward to continuing my education with SEI and growing in the renewable energy field.

Chris Bell
Chris Bell

1688327229
Probably the best PV courses out there, from my research anyway. The courses are a bit expensive but they offer a few ways to offset the initial cost. A lot of places offer courses cheaper but in this case I believe you get what you pay for. Online classes are a must for someone who is working or going to school full time and are looking to expand their reach in this field. I’m and Industrial Electrician looking to get ahead of the next trend in my field of expertise. Being able to apply the credit for courses completed and passed toward an industry certification like NABCEP equals money in the bank.

Casey Scranton
Casey Scranton

1686971388
Just finished my first course and am pleased with all aspects. A lot of information that is layed out logically with access to instruction and reference to help along the way. Well done.

Zack Riley
Zack Riley

1686244328
I would highly recommend taking this course for a nice foundation of knowledge for the PV industry. From beginning to end there is A TON of information. Very well organized as well.

Snail Powered
Snail Powered

1685690915
I just finished the RE100 free course online and it was far better than I expected. I have done many online trainings that were mostly a waste of time and I found this to be very good, even for the portions that I was familiar with the content I found the course engaging and improving my knowledge.

Michael Fischer
Michael Fischer

1684420819
Excellent online instruction. With such a need for qualified labor to help meet climate goals, it’s great to see thorough and approachable course work like SEI offers. They’ve been and have stayed the relevant go to for setting the standard for safe, best in class instruction.

Adrian Smith
Adrian Smith

1683818394
I was unsure where to go for my PV education considering that I work in a different field with little knowledge of the PV industry. Now that I have completed POVL101 I am sure I made the right choice and am looking forward to continuing my education with Solar Energy International.

Khae Pasao
Khae Pasao

1680385994
I’ve learned so much from SEI. Great course materials and resources and most certainly the instructors and presenters are absolutely knowledgeable and helpful! Highly recommended.

My name is Tariku Lemi from Ethiopia.I am solar PV system trainer and installation technicians. I have gained a lot of skills and knowledge from SEI online training and know I am ready to transfer what I gained from SEI and play a vital role in skilled manpower production on solar technology In Ethiopia.

Shaun Farris
Shaun Farris

1680025939
I’ve never attended this school. However, they have definitely given a good boost to our local economy. And you can’t beat their yard sale prices on solar equipment.

dhib warda
dhib warda

1676473458
My experience learning with SEI has been nothing short of amazing! SEI’s comprehensive solar courses have helped me develop the skills I need to become a successful solar professional. With knowledgeable instructors and engaging videos, SEI has provided an unforgettable learning experience that I would highly recommend!

E100: Introduction to Renewable Energy is a great course to start building a framework of renewable energy systems (particularly PV technology) and the solar industry. I would absolutely recommend it for anyone curious about the field with limited prior knowledge/experience.

Suzanne Csejtey
Suzanne Csejtey

1670682603
This class was loaded with useful content. It felt almost like I was there just because the lectures and demo videos were that good. Really appreciate being able to hold onto the material for later reference too, in this world where everything we pay for evaporates. Thank you SEI!

Maximillan Houniola
Thank you SEI team.Very important and useful training program for developing countries like Pacific Islands interms of extracting of electricity from renewable energy sources.Great knowledge indeed! SEI is highly recommended to learn from its offered trainings.

Paula Doughty
Paula Doughty

1666644083
Solar Energy International is a top notch Online Course! Easy to follow, very comprehensive, perfect amount of accountability and priced fairly. I would recommend this to anyone wanting to get into the Solar Power Industry.This course is a great starting point, whether its for a new career, advancing in the job you currently have, or just your own personal knowledge. The course is packed with information. Thank you SEI

Othoniel Rodriguez
Othoniel Rodriguez

1665354904
The course I took was an excellent courses that would have taken any person from a basic or advanced current level of knowledge to full exposure to the customer requirements, site evaluation, photovoltaic panels and inverters, arrays, grounding and disconnecting means, electrical design, safety/OSHA requirements, installation, testing, commissioning and baseline performance evaluation. Modules are progressively organized, and very didactic, with attention to details, and contextualizing the knowledge to applicable standards and existing support resources in the web.

Kenaud Ryan
Kenaud Ryan

1663546561
I am very excited just Completed PVOL101 (SEI) online course, thanks to all my class mate, instructors and presenters for a fun filled 8 weeks of course work. Let the fun time begin.

Othoniel Rodriguez
Othoniel Rodriguez

1663521724
The course I took was an excellent courses that would have taken any person from a basic or advanced current level of knowledge to full exposure to the customer requirements, site evaluation, photovoltaic panels and inverters, arrays, grounding and disconnecting means, electrical design, safety/OSHA requirements, installation, testing, commissioning and baseline performance evaluation. Modules are progressively organized, and very didactic, with attention to details, and contextualizing the knowledge to applicable standards and existing support resources in the web.

Cara Donaldson
Cara Donaldson

1663383872
I had virtually zero experience in solar prior to taking SEIs PV101 course. Now that I’ve completed it, I feel much more prepared for my career in the solar industry. I understand it, respect it, and am excited for how much more there is to learn. It really is an exciting industry, and SEI did a great job getting me up to speed! I look forward to enrolling in more of their in depth classes, as they have developed an effective and efficient structure to their programs. The instructors all really seemed to have a variety and plethora of experience and knowledge that they were eager to share. Hats off and hands down – SEI is fantastic!

Amber Lorenz
Amber Lorenz

1663014542
SEI was recommended to me more than a decade ago when I first became really interested in Renewable Energy Technologies. It seems to be the premier place to learn about Solar and gain credibility with professionals in the field. I am excited to pursue my NABCEB certification and I truly believe SEI is the best place to gain the knowledge and experience necessary to work in this important field!

Jason Drach
Jason Drach

1662333582
I am so thankful I found out about Solar Energy International from a colleague and the tremendous programs offered online! SEI does a wonderful job of making the lessons easy to follow and can be completed on your own schedule. I enjoyed the RE100–Intro to Renewable Energy course greatly, and look forward to beginning the next course soon!

Vicente Cuevas
Vicente Cuevas

1660527130
Taking the 201L in person class was a great decision. Even though I installed before, I learned a lot about the science behind solar energy. Also, getting immediate and professional feedback in a structured learning environment was priceless. It put a neat bow on the online courses I took.The instructors were kind and so was the entire SEI staff. Super nice people and inclusive. The town of Paonia was the same. Western Colorado is amazing and I will be back. The positivity and niceness of the Paonia residents was refreshing. It was great.

Anthony Musser
Anthony Musser

1659927639
The site is very user friendly. The lessons cover the knowledge you need to pass the tests with a good grade. Also the staff and instructors are very helpful.

nagarajan nagarajan
The presentations are hierarchically arranged from basic to advanced level of understanding. Moreover, the concerned quiz sections brain stormed the relevant understandings towards solar system.

moses sesan
moses sesan

1659010146
Solar Energy International (SEI) is the place where you can obtain an in-depth solar energy training which is anchored by qualified and experienced instructors who have up to date field experience.

Othoniel Rodriguez
Othoniel Rodriguez

1658865571
The course I took was an excellent courses that would have taken any person from a basic or advanced current level of knowledge to full exposure to the customer requirements, site evaluation, photovoltaic panels and inverters, arrays, grounding and disconnecting means, electrical design, safety/OSHA requirements, installation, testing, commissioning and baseline performance evaluation. Modules are progressively organized, and very didactic, with attention to details, and contextualizing the knowledge to applicable standards and existing support resources in the web.

Jason Jacobs
Jason Jacobs

1658787062
I am very pleased with the content of this training and how it was presented. I am especially appreciative of the ability to complete the courses at my own pace. I started this training with almost zero knowledge of solar technology, and the solar field. After completing this training I feel like I am much more knowledgeable, and I feel a lot more confident in my current work position.

Paula Makarewicz
Paula Makarewicz

1658699868
I enjoyed the class. It offered more information and resources than the Intro to PV course I took through my electrical apprenticeship. It was well-organized and well taught. I will likely continue with SEI and obtain my NABCEP over the next couple years ….as I continue my apprenticeship.

Brian Hughes
Brian Hughes

1657156662
For a free course, RE100 provided a good primer for those interested in the renewable energy field. It knocks some of the rust off of the basic physics, and introduces a bit of industry specific terminology. Looking forward to participating in some of the other relevant pay-as-you-go courses. Thank you SEI!

SEI has the right course to train any individual who wishes to learn or expand their knowledge in renewable energy and in turn enable them to create their own business.

I had a wonderful 6hr intro class for free and am now on my journey to becoming a renewable energy ambassador. Starting in Solar PV installation and hope to gain further knowledge for design and more.

Simeon Ratteng
Simeon Ratteng

1653636860
The course is comprehensive enough and very informative for this stage. presentations are short and clear. quiz’s is well designed and understandable

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