Comprehensive Solar Plus Storage

This course is self-paced, so you don’t need to be logged in at any specific time. You can get started immediately after you enroll and the course materials will remain in your account with minimum guaranteed access for 12 months (1 year) after enrollment.

The first module introduces you to the course and outlines the weekly topics to be covered. Kennedy will present a general case for energy storage, cover some basics such as power, energy and battery capacity ratings, and then dive right in to advanced storage technologies with a focus on electro-chemical batteries. We’ll wrap up the first week with a discussion of electrical grid types, including microgrids, and related energy storage opportunities.

In this module we’ll look at contemporary applications and equipment for stand-alone off-grid projects. This market is experiencing tremendous growth globally. Wes will present technical information for the design and deployment of systems ranging from advanced off-grid residences to remote, stand-alone commercial-scale resorts and industrial facilities.

The third module’s focus is modern grid-connected residential applications. We’ll cover technology, design parameters, example markets and financial drivers, as well as a technical case study. We’ll take a forward-looking approach to applications including grid-tie with battery backup, self-consumption schemes and system aggregation for grid support.

In the fourth week, we’ll dive into grid-connected commercial and institutional storage markets. Topics include benefit stacking, peak shaving, frequency regulation and financial arbitrage. We’ll also explore the status of codes and standards related to energy storage such as NEC requirements, fire codes and UL certification. We’ll wrap up the week with a case study that includes market position, finances, and equipment and design variables for an example commercial-scale energy storage system.

This week we'll discuss the new wave of applications and technologies for utility-scale energy storage systems. Topics include ramp rate control, peak shifting and ancillary services. We'll finish with a case study that outlines the financial drivers and design parameters for an example utility-scale storage system.

This module has a technology focus on Energy Storage Management Controls. We then do a detailed overview of NEC Article 706, and look at the nested hierarchy of codes and standards pertaining to Energy Storage Systems.

Innovative financial models drove the rapid growth of grid-connected PV systems. Most experts agree that the mainstreaming of energy storage will follow a similar developmental path. This module explores the various financial models emerging to drive the storage market forward. You’ll learn where financially attractive solar-plus-storage projects are happening today as well as up-and-coming markets.

What policies are in place that are helping, or hurting, the solar-plus-storage marketplace? What’s on the horizon? In week 8, you’ll get a handle on local, state and national programs impacting the energy storage market and policy obstacles that need to be removed.

We’ll review the important takeaways from the course and prepare you for the capstone project. For your capstone project, you’ll select a viable energy storage market and application and put what you’ve learned to work. You’ll design a solar-plus-storage system, specify the power conditioning and control equipment, and create a financial overview for the project.

This is our last module but you still have access to the all of course materials for 12 months (1 year), so keep working and you'll be able to complete the course at your own pace. After your year of access expires you can optionally extend access with a HeatSpring Membership. Enjoy the course and keep in touch!