Solar & Thermal Energy Systems: Design, Integration, and Efficiency

EDURISE

Reed Courses Certificate of Completion

Digital certificate - Included

Final Project: Solar Energy Application and Integration Report

Included in course price

• Intro 01:45

  • 1: Solar & Thermal Energy Preview 01:45

• Video Material 2:01:44

  • 2: Module 1 Introduction to Solar & Thermal Energy 19:56
  • 3: Module 2 Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Systems 20:24
  • 4: Module 3 Solar Thermal Energy Systems 20:49
  • 5: Module 4 Solar Energy Storage 23:17
  • 6: Module 5 Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) Systems 17:10
  • 7: Module 6 Solar Energy Policies and Economics 20:08

• PDF Material 1:38:00

  • 8: Module 01 _ Introduction to Solar & Thermal Energy 10:00
  • 9: Module 02 _ Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Systems 16:00
  • 10: Module 03 _ Solar Thermal Energy Systems 15:00
  • 11: Module 04 _ Solar Energy Storage 12:00
  • 12: Module 05 _ Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) Systems 17:00
  • 13: Module 06 _ Solar Energy Policies and Economics 23:00
  • 14: MCQs 05:00
  • 15: Solar & Thermal Energy System Design and Feasibility Report -

• Bonus Material 26:28

  • 16: Podcast 23:28
  • 17: MCQs 03:00

The Solar & Thermal Energy – Certified Specialist Program is a comprehensive training course designed for individuals seeking deep technical and practical expertise in harnessing solar radiation and thermal processes for sustainable energy production. This program equips learners with the multidisciplinary knowledge required to evaluate, design, and manage solar and thermal energy systems across diverse scales—ranging from off-grid residential installations to large-scale industrial and grid-integrated solutions.

Spanning six progressive modules, this course integrates theoretical principles, applied system design, storage optimization, concentrated solar power technologies, and real-world policy and economic considerations—offering learners both foundational and cutting-edge insights into the fast-evolving field of renewable energy.

Module 1: Introduction to Solar & Thermal Energy
The program begins with a solid grounding in the physical principles of solar and thermal energy. Learners explore solar radiation fundamentals, including irradiance, insolation, spectral distribution, and atmospheric effects. The thermodynamic basis of solar heat capture is explained, along with key parameters such as solar constant, angle of incidence, and thermal conversion efficiency. Students assess the differences and synergies between solar photovoltaic (PV) systems and thermal systems, developing an integrated view of solar energy's role in electricity generation, heating, and industrial applications.

Module 2: Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Systems
This module dives into the design, configuration, and performance evaluation of solar PV systems. Learners study how photovoltaic cells convert sunlight into electricity, examining the physics of semiconductors, doping, the p-n junction, and the photovoltaic effect. Key system components—solar panels, inverters, batteries, charge controllers, and mounting structures—are dissected, with an emphasis on compatibility, efficiency, and lifecycle performance.

Students analyze PV module characteristics using I-V curves and maximum power point tracking (MPPT). The module introduces off-grid, grid-tied, and hybrid system configurations, offering step-by-step methodologies for system sizing, load calculation, and solar resource assessment. Software tools such as PVsyst and SAM are referenced to demonstrate real-world simulation and design approaches.

Module 3: Solar Thermal Energy Systems
In this module, learners explore the use of solar energy for heat production in applications such as water heating, space heating, and low-temperature industrial processes. System configurations including flat-plate collectors, evacuated tube collectors, and solar air heaters are examined in detail. The module discusses collector efficiency, stagnation temperature, optical and thermal losses, and absorber plate design.

Students gain hands-on understanding of system integration—piping layouts, storage tanks, circulation systems (active/passive), and heat exchangers. The principles of thermosiphon systems, forced circulation loops, and indirect heating methods are analyzed alongside control strategies for maximizing thermal gain.

Module 4: Solar Energy Storage
Energy storage plays a critical role in addressing solar intermittency and ensuring reliable power delivery. This module presents a broad overview of energy storage systems applicable to both solar PV and thermal systems. Learners explore the principles, components, and selection criteria for various storage technologies, including lead-acid, lithium-ion, flow batteries, and molten salt thermal storage.

Students evaluate the performance of batteries in terms of depth of discharge (DoD), state of charge (SoC), cycle life, and efficiency. The design of battery banks, charge regulation, and thermal management are also covered. For thermal storage, learners examine sensible and latent heat storage mechanisms, phase change materials, and stratified tank configurations.

Module 5: Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) Systems
Concentrated solar technologies offer utility-scale thermal solutions for electricity generation. This module introduces learners to CSP system types including parabolic troughs, power towers (central receiver systems), linear Fresnel reflectors, and dish-Stirling systems. The thermodynamic cycles used (Rankine, Brayton, combined cycles) are explained alongside optical concentration principles and sun-tracking mechanisms.

Students learn to evaluate collector field layouts, receiver tube design, heat transfer fluids (HTFs), and thermal energy storage using molten salt or phase change materials. The module discusses efficiency optimization, receiver emissivity, reflection losses, and operating temperature constraints.

Module 6: Solar Energy Policies and Economics
The final module ties technical knowledge to broader economic and policy contexts. Learners study the financial structures that support solar development, including feed-in tariffs, renewable energy certificates, tax incentives, capital subsidies, and net metering. Cost-benefit analysis tools, IRR/NPV calculations, and economic modeling techniques are introduced to assess project viability.

Students review international and national policies that have driven solar adoption, comparing frameworks such as the EU Renewable Directive, India’s Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission, and U.S. state-level RPS mandates. Policy design principles such as bankability, de-risking instruments, and public-private partnerships are discussed to help learners understand how market transformation can be accelerated.

Program Outcomes
Upon successful completion, participants will be able to:

• Analyze solar radiation data and assess site suitability

• Design, size, and simulate PV and thermal energy systems

• Evaluate storage solutions for both electrical and thermal energy

• Interpret CSP configurations and optimize thermal energy conversion

• Understand financial, regulatory, and environmental dimensions of solar deployment

• Apply safety and quality standards to system design and installation

• Advocate for policy reforms and market mechanisms that promote clean energy transitions

Whether you are a technician, engineer, sustainability officer, policy analyst, or project developer, this course prepares you with the applied knowledge and strategic insight needed to lead solar and thermal energy projects with confidence and impact.

This course is ideal for professionals, students, and entrepreneurs seeking to enter or advance within the renewable energy sector. Whether you're looking to build, design, manage, or advocate for solar and thermal systems, this program provides the technical and strategic foundation to do so effectively.

It is particularly suited for:

• Electrical, Mechanical, and Civil Engineers looking to specialize in sustainable energy infrastructure

• Energy Consultants and Auditors working on green building certifications and energy efficiency projects

• Solar Technicians and Installers aiming to upskill and expand into thermal or hybrid systems

• Environmental Scientists and Sustainability Professionals interested in solar applications for climate impact

• Government Planners and Policymakers involved in energy access, regulation, and renewable energy strategy

• Entrepreneurs and Business Developers exploring opportunities in clean energy start-ups and off-grid solutions

• Graduates and STEM Students pursuing a career in sustainable energy systems, energy engineering, or environmental innovation

No prior experience in solar technology is required, but a basic understanding of science or engineering concepts is recommended for optimal engagement.

Graduates can pursue roles such as Solar Energy Engineer, PV System Designer, Thermal System Technician, Energy Auditor, or Renewable Project Manager. Salaries range from $45,000 to $110,000+ annually, depending on region and experience. Opportunities exist in green tech firms, government, and private energy ventures.

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