Course is designed to address a variety of subjects required to meet the needs of lifelong learning students. Not available for transfer nor applicable as an elective.
Offered: DMND

Modeling and representing renewable energy systems in both two and three dimensions will be covered using Google SketchUp Pro. Creating two dimensional drawings will be introduced along with the basics of creating three dimensional models. Creating, analyzing, and presenting three dimensional models of renewable energy systems will be explored in detail.
Offered: FASP

Basic photovoltaic (PV) energy conversion theory is introduced in relation to current silicon semiconductor technology. DC electrical energy production from incident solar radiation is covered along with PV module interconnection to meet load requirements. PV module performance specifications are compared to field performance in a laboratory setting. Inverter theory (for AC electrical energy production) and efficiency are discussed, as well as storage system sizing, charge controller operation and issues of connectivity with the existing utility electrical grid.
Prerequisites: Take RENG-252 and INST-144, minimum grade C.
Offered: SP

This hands-on course will first cover the National Electric Code (NEC) specifics concerning the photovoltaic(PV)installation - articles 90 to 400. Then, code compliant wiring of basic residential electrical systems will be explored in detail. Students will use materials designed for installation practice both indoors and out. Existing PV installations will be visited and studied.
Minimum grade required: "C"
Corequisites: RENG-242L,INST-144
Offered: FALL Faculty Permission Required

This course is the first in a two-semester laboratory sequence and accompanies RENG 242.
Minimum grade required: "C"
Corequisites: RENG-242
Offered: FALL Faculty Permission Required

This hands-on course will cover the National Electric Code (NEC) specifics concerning photovoltaic (PV) installation - article 690. Then, code compliant wiring of modules, inverters, charge controllers and batteries will be explored in detail. Students will use materials designed for installation practice both indoors and out. Existing PV installations will be visited and studied.
Minimum grade required: "C"
Prerequisites: Take RENG-242, RENG-242L, and INST-144
Corequisites: RENG-243L,RENG-150
Offered: SP

This course is the second in a two-semester laboratory sequence and accompanies RENG-243.
Minimum grade required: "C"
Corequisites: RENG-243
Offered: SP

Starts with an overview of various aspects of energy production, consumption, and quantification. Emphasis will be placed on efficiency and conservation. Quantification of incident solar energy is covered in detail along with the basic physics of energy conversion. Building energy analysis, including passive solar, will involve designing spreadsheets and using modeling software.
Prerequisites: Take PHYS-111 and COSC-116.
Offered: FALL

This course starts with an overview of various active solar thermal systems for both domestic water and space heating. Quantification of energy output for several non-concentrating collector types will be covered in detail and then used in the development of spreadsheets to model system behavior. Installation, start-up, and troubleshooting will be discussed. Concentrating, large-scale power plant basics are covered generally.
Minimum grade required: "C"
Prerequisites: Take RENG-252 with a C or higher.
Offered: SP

Specific subjects and credits to be announced in the Schedule of Classes. Semester Offered-On Demand.
Offered: DMND Faculty Permission Required