Designing Residential Grid-Connected Photovoltaic Systems

As the cost of electricity generated by a residential PV system is now below the cost of utility electricity, residential rooftop PV systems are now being installed at a rapidly increasing rate. The goal of this webinar is to present the underlying economics of solar electricity and then proceed with how to design the structural and electrical components of microinverter systems, optimizer systems and string inverter systems for residences.  Detailed design examples, including wind load calculations and electrical calculations, are used to demonstrate compliance with relevant codes and standards. Emphasis is placed on HOW the systems work, since rapidly changing technology requires the ability to understand the specifications of various technologies as they emerge. References

1. NFPA 70  National Electrical Code
2. ASCE 7-16  Minimum Design Loads and Associated Criteria for Buildings and Other Structures
3. Manufacturers Equipment Data Sheets and Installation Manuals

Learning Objectives

Upon completion of the course, the student should understand the terminology and the economic, environmental and possible emergency or standby power availability benefits associated with design and installation of a PV system.  Specific topics discussed are

• PV Economics for 2021 – LCOE and Energy ROI
• Types of PV Systems – Stand Alone, Straight Grid Connected and Energy Storage Systems
• Sun and Equipment Basics
• Grid-Connected Options
• Code Compliant Design and Installation Requirements
• Wind Load Calculations
• Array Mounting Options and Calculations
• Electrical Design Examples for Microinverter, Power Optimizer and String Inverter Systems
• Code-Compliant Methods of Utility Interconnection