Solar
Design and Installation
Certification Prep

Solar PV Fundamentals and Certification Prep (130 Practice Questions)

Asif Khokher • Last updated 08/2023

Course description

This course aims to boost confidence and assist those who are intending to prepare for industry exams like NABCEP Associate, along with learning of the foundational principles of solar PV systems and essential theories including calculations. Over 130 multiple-choice questions (MCQs), each with a explanation of theory and solution, are provided in this course. Next level NABCEP questions are also included which may help to prepare for the advanced level of NABCEP exams.

IMPORTANT NOTE
NABCEP offers two pathways to qualify for the NABCEP Associate Exam

a) Education Pathway: In case you are following "Education Pathway" to obtain your NABCEP Associate Credential to qualify your application to NABCEP Associate Exam, please explore the Solar PV Boot Camp+ NABCEP PV Associate Exam Prep. This course is NOT for you.

b) Experience Pathway: To qualify for the exam, you must have documented 6 months of experience. In this regard, you may like to take this course to prepare for the exam.

For further information on pathway options provided by the NABCEP to finalize the application for NABCEP Associate Exam, you can reference the NABCEP PV Associate Page

COURSE OBJECTIVES:

1) Learn very essential and core theories of solar energy, PV modules and inverters
2) Learn through over 130 multiple choice questions focused on various subjects about solar PV systems

COURSE STRUCTURE
First two modules focus on fundamental theories and explore concepts of solar PV systems in simple and well explained professional-level theories. The 3rd module consist of multiple choice questions (MCQs) which would help to prepare for the NABCEP Associate Exam. The 4th and last module also consists of questions to further build the confidence, especially carrying out basic calculations.

WHO IS THIS COURSE FOR
1) This course is best fit for those who are following the "Experience Pathway" option given by NABCEP, to finalize the application for the Exam, and intend to prepare for the exam.
2) Those who have already taken a NABCEP accredited course to qualify using the "Education Pathway" for the application of NABCEP Associate Exam , and now intend to enhance or improve their knowledge further.
3) Those who are at initial stages of learning and understanding of the solar PV systems, and want to build their confidence in a different mode to quickly grip the theories including calculations behind the solar PV systems.

Ready To Sign Up Today? Click Here to Enroll

Full course outline

Welcome - Orientation Materials

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.

  • Set up email notifications and your student profile
  • Introduce yourself on the discussion board
  • Important Note: No NABCEP Credit for this Course
Module 1 - Solar PV basics in One Hour

This Module will intordue you very basics of a Solar PV System in brief comprising of following: a) Understanding PV Tilt and Azimuth Angles with respect to Sun Altitude and Azimuth Angles b) Understanding Energy units c) Understanding various factors effecting power production by Solar Panel d) Understanding Peak Sun Hours (PSH) e) Understanding how much a solar panel or system produces Power with Calculations f) Understanding Sizing or Rating of a PV System with Calculations g) Understanding I-V characteristics

  • Basics - I (21:20 minutes)
  • Basics - II (16:52 minutes)
  • Basics - III (08:42 minutes)
  • Basics - IV (24:57 minutes)
Module 2 - Fundamental and Core Theories

This Module is a boot camp to help you understand the core and essential theory of Solar Energy, PV Modules and Inverters.

  • Extraterrestrial Solar Radiation and Solar Constant (01:57 minutes)
  • Terrestrial Solar Radiation and Air Mass (04:26 minutes)
  • Peak Sun Value and Hours (03:06 minutes)
  • Solar Irradiance and Irradiation (01:20 minutes)
  • Solar Radiation Data and Maps (01:47 minutes)
  • Earth Orbit and Rotation (03:47 minutes)
  • Sun Path Charts (02:24 minutes)
  • PV Azimuth and Tilt Angles (04:11 minutes)
  • Solar and Magnetic Declination (02:29 minutes)
  • Power and Energy Equations (03:48 minutes)
  • PV Module IV Curves (09:01 minutes)
  • Temperature Coefficient and Calculating Voltages (17:08 minutes)
  • Bypass Diodes (03:30 minutes)
  • Types of Solar Inverters -I (08:10 minutes)
  • Types of Solar Inverters -II (07:15 minutes)
  • Earthing and Grounding (03:35 minutes)
Module 3 - NABCEP Level 1 MCQs - Theory Explained and Solved

This Module will take you through Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ) with explanation of theories behind every question and ultimately every question is solved in Video Lectures to build your confidence. These questions primarliy pertains to basic Level of NABCEP i.e. NABCEP Associate Exam, however, might be useful for those too preparaing for next level of NABCEP Exam.

  • Color of Earthing Cable (01:11 minutes)
  • Color Scheme of the 120/220 AC Split (02:51 minutes)
  • Calculate Voltage in a Cable (03:10 minutes)
  • Calculate System Power given Standard Solar Irradiance and Module Power (03:40 minutes)
  • Understanding Sun Path Chart (07:09 minutes)
  • Type of Mounting Method required for roof top (05:57 minutes)
  • Difference between Inverter, Charge Controller, Transformer and Super Capacitor (12:07 minutes)
  • What is PV Cable (05:34 minutes)
  • Calculating output Voltage and Current of a System given specs (08:40 minutes)
  • Understanding OSHA (01:15 minutes)
  • Understanding Transformers (07:05 minutes)
  • Calculating least No of PV Modules for a System (06:37 minutes)
  • Understanding Units of Solar Irradiance (03:23 minutes)
  • Where is Grounding Point in support structure of PV array (04:35 minutes)
  • Why Bypass Diodes are used (07:34 minutes)
  • Different areas in IV Curve of a PV Module (06:04 minutes)
  • Understanding Albedo effect (04:46 minutes)
  • Understanding change in PV Voltage due to temperature (03:39 minutes)
  • Understanding use of micro-inverter for multiple orientations (09:52 minutes)
  • Fuse rating of a PV Module (05:52 minutes)
  • Difference between equipment of transmission, distribution and service equipment (03:21 minutes)
  • Understanding charging Voltage of a battery (06:39 minutes)
  • Understand to Calculate Electrical Power (06:48 minutes)
  • Maintenance requirements of PV System located in middle east (04:43 minutes)
  • Understanding Voltage drop phenomenon in a cable (02:35 minutes)
  • Calculating maximum possible system size for a given area (03:31 minutes)
  • Calculating minimum No. of PV Modules for a system (08:22 minutes)
  • Understanding Sealed Batteries (05:01 minutes)
  • Who approves a PV System (02:22 minutes)
  • Understanding and Calculating Cell Voltage of a PV Module (03:15 minutes)
  • Understanding various tools for troubleshooting (05:21 minutes)
  • Understanding Mounting types for PV Modules (02:41 minutes)
  • Recommended slop of the ladder as per OSHA (03:53 minutes)
  • Safety concerns while working on an electrical system (03:48 minutes)
  • Location where PV disconnect not allowed (02:19 minutes)
  • Understanding most possible hazard while working on PV Systems (04:56 minutes)
  • Understanding how current can be effected in a PV Module (06:12 minutes)
  • Calculating Electrical Energy Units (KWh) (03:59 minutes)
  • Calculating Resistance in a Circuit (01:13 minutes)
  • What is STC Standard (04:02 minutes)
  • Understanding Air Mass (05:54 minutes)
  • What is Direct PV application (04:28 minutes)
  • Understanding location for micro-Inverters (07:18 minutes)
  • Understanding magnetic field around a cable having current (02:34 minutes)
  • What is Fall Protection as per OSHA (01:21 minutes)
  • Requirements of Safety Net as per OSHA (01:58 minutes)
  • Requirements of Stairways as per OSHA (02:12 minutes)
  • Optimum Title angle for an Off-Grid System for summer season (03:59 minutes)
  • Calculating Maximum No. of PV Modules for a System (21:25 minutes)
  • Safest way to find out the PV Output Current (05:05 minutes)
  • Understanding MPPT (09:18 minutes)
  • Finding optimum tilt angle of PV Module in a System (06:39 minutes)
  • What insulation of a conductor represents (03:37 minutes)
  • Safe way of handling PV modules on a roof (06:33 minutes)
  • Understanding effect of PV Modules connected in parallel (02:30 minutes)
  • Where Bypass Diodes are located (01:23 minutes)
  • Who make requirements for electrical safety for Employees (02:19 minutes)
  • Understanding core component of a PV Module (02:21 minutes)
  • Understanding Magnetic Declination (02:51 minutes)
  • Understanding Tools required to survey a site (07:08 minutes)
  • Understanding Equinox (04:36 minutes)
  • Understanding reasons in increase in PV Voltages (04:02 minutes)
  • What happens if output terminals of a PV Module are shorted (03:58 minutes)
  • Finding tilt angle of the PV Module for best summer performance (03:41 minutes)
  • Suitable Tools to check and troubleshoot (11:28 minutes)
  • Understanding Equalizing in Batteries (04:38 minutes)
  • Requirement of heavy equipment Operator as per OSHA (01:49 minutes)
  • Suitable instrument to measure the insulation resistance of a Cable (03:16 minutes)
  • What is Residential Voltage scheme in US (02:12 minutes)
  • Understanding the importance of ASHRAE in design of Solar PV Systems (03:56 minutes)
  • Understanding PV Wire or cable for a PV Module (02:55 minutes)
  • Prohibited area of installing Lead Acid Battery (02:25 minutes)
  • Understanding Electrical Voltage (02:28 minutes)
  • Understanding Hybrid System (02:51 minutes)
  • Maximum Voltage rating of a PV Module (02:56 minutes)
  • Calculating cost of PV modules given roof area, module efficeincy and others (03:12 minutes)
  • Understanding Secondary Battery (01:04 minutes)
  • Understanding Cable sizing (02:04 minutes)
  • Understanding longest shadows occuring on PV Modules (02:44 minutes)
  • Understanding effect due to increase in Solar Irradiance (04:00 minutes)
  • Selecting econimical PV Module for a site given cost and others (09:58 minutes)
  • Selecting type of PV system for a remote agriculture pump (02:42 minutes)
Module 4 - NABCEP Next Level MCQs - Theory Explained and Solved

In this Module, you will go through a bit advanced level of MCQs which may be helpfu in preparaing for NABCEP exam(s) higher than NABCEP Associate. At the same time, these Questions will definitely and substantially build the confidence of a student preaparing for NABCEP Associate Level Exam.

  • Calculate System Power given Solar Irradiance and Module Power (02:55 minutes)
  • Understanding Multimode Inverter as per NEC (06:45 minutes)
  • Which type of System to install at home (02:12 minutes)
  • Calculating suitable Combination of PV Modules for a System (04:37 minutes)
  • Which Grounding System is used these days (05:13 minutes)
  • Calculating System Output power given System rating, efficiency and losses (11:30 minutes)
  • Approach to size the PV system for Net Metering (06:23 minutes)
  • Calculating mppt voltage given 4 No. of source circuits (04:22 minutes)
  • Limitation of connecting PV System to Service Conductors (06:24 minutes)
  • Ground Fault detection by Inverter (06:47 minutes)
  • Calculating System Size given two No of Source circuits (02:23 minutes)
  • Understanding effect due to undersized PV system (10:24 minutes)
  • Calculating No. of Batteries for a given load (06:09 minutes)
  • Calculating No. of Batteries for a given load connected to an inverter (04:48 minutes)
  • Calculating System Power produced given area, efficiency and number of modules (03:13 minutes)
  • Calculating size of breaker at output of an Inverter (04:11 minutes)
  • Understanding specifications of a Charge Controller (04:30 minutes)
  • Which standard represent Cell temperature (08:09 minutes)
  • Understanding Inter-Row spacing of PV Modules (07:23 minutes)
  • Troubleshooting a System not working on a summer day (08:05 minutes)
  • Category of High Voltage Safety Hats (01:34 minutes)
  • Calculating Energy Units requirement of a User Load (09:04 minutes)
  • Understanding worst design for the installation of the PV System (19:01 minutes)
  • Calculating PV Array Size given specs of Battery Bank (03:03 minutes)
  • Calculating Annual Energy Yield of a System given specs (12:18 minutes)
  • Troubleshooting a System where Inverter has indication of Ground Fault (11:42 minutes)
  • Safe way to test DC voltage of a PV Disconnect (03:31 minutes)
  • Calculating Maximum No. of PV Modules for a System given various specs (05:16 minutes)
  • Troubleshooting Off-Grid PV system often shuts down during winter (05:02 minutes)
  • Understanding PV Standard UL1703 (04:26 minutes)
  • Calculating Enery Yield given system rating, efficiency and PSH (05:30 minutes)
  • A NEC requirement for PV Modules (03:29 minutes)
  • Calculating number of PV modules given load, pSH and other data (04:16 minutes)
  • Who decides which standards to apply (03:01 minutes)
  • Calculating Efficiency of the PV Module given rated power and size (03:36 minutes)
  • Calculating Voltage drop between Battery and Charge Controller (04:43 minutes)
  • What to do if stand-alone PV System designed hardly fulfil the Load requirements (05:53 minutes)
  • Understanding the critical design month for a PV System (04:50 minutes)
  • What are requirements to replace faulty Inverter (05:46 minutes)
  • Troubleshooting a PV System System which intermittently shuts down (06:48 minutes)
  • Optimizing the Power output of PV system due to Module mismatch (05:06 minutes)
  • Understanding tripping due to circuit breaker at output of an Inverter (03:47 minutes)
  • Understanding Location of a Disconnect in an Interactive SYstem (02:51 minutes)
  • Understanding requirements of MC4 connectors (02:59 minutes)
  • Which PV system is difficult to size and why (07:06 minutes)
  • Finding suitbale location of an Inverter for a Farm land given site data (04:42 minutes)
  • Understanding requirement of a stand-alone PV system without Charge Controller (04:50 minutes)
  • Understanding Interactive PV system (03:47 minutes)
  • Calculating maximum output of a System given system rating, inverter current and others (02:44 minutes)
  • Requirements of terminals of PV Module (02:38 minutes)
  • Calculating Charging Current of Battery given voltage, capacity and others (03:51 minutes)
  • Calculating Energy Yield given system rating and monthly energy units (02:04 minutes)
  • Calculating expected Voltage and Current Output at Standard Test Conditions (08:40 minutes)
Conclusion - Feedback and Additional Resources

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!

  • 1 Year of Access to Course Materials
  • Feedback: 2-minute Exit Survey
  • Consider Joining as a HeatSpring Member
  • Certificate of Completion: Request a Certificate

Instructor

Asif Khokher

Director, Innovasys Engineering

Asif Khokher is seasoned Professional Engineer and certified NABCEP PVIP having 24+ Years of experience as Consultant/Owner's Engineer and Project Manager in various domains like Front End Engineering & Design, Tender Design, Detailed Design & System Integration, Design Review, Approvals, Inspection/ Commissioning in the field of Instrumentation & Control Systems, SCADA... Learn more

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Frequently asked questions

How does this course work?

You can begin this online course instantly upon enrollment. This 4 module course is delivered entirely online. This course is self-paced and you can set your own schedule to complete the materials. You can begin the lecture videos and other course materials as soon as you enroll. During your year of access the instructor will be in the course answering questions on the discussion board. After successfully completing the course, you will be able to generate a certificate of completion.

How long do I have access to the materials?

Students get unlimited access to the course materials as soon as they enroll and for one year (365 days) after enrollment. Rewatch videos and review assignments as many times as you want. View updates the instructor makes to the course as the industry advances. Return to your course anytime with online access from anywhere in the world. After the one year of access expires, access can be extended by joining as a HeatSpring member. A single membership extends access to course materials for all past enrollments.

Is there a certificate of completion?

Yes, when you complete this course you are eligible for a certificate of completion from HeatSpring. You can download your certificate as soon as you have completed all of the course requirements. Students can easily share their verified certificates on their LinkedIn profiles using our LinkedIn integration.

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