The Solar Simulations course consists of 6 individual training modules, each of which contain a range of simulations, videos, and other activities.

Note: Not every learning module or simulation is VR Compatible at this time.

Module 1: Site Assessment

• Assess ground conditions for safety, workability and potential inverter placement issues
• Observe main service panel for amperage capacity, breaker space availability and model info
• Recognize roofing hazards and types of pre-existing damage that could affect array placement
• Identification and exact location of roof obstructions
• In-attic observation of rafter size, spacing, and any pre-existing water damage

Module 2: Array Assembly Installation

• Setting array boundary to respect fire setback restrictions and aesthetics
• Finding and marking of rafter/truss locations and centering the array over them
• Proper attachment of flashed mounts over rafters/trusses and above shingle drip edge
• Assembly of rail sections with splices and attachment to ‘L’ feet
• Attachment of optimizers to rails and securing wiring above roofing with clips and ties
• Assembly of jumpers using MC4 connectors and crimping tool
• Securing solar modules to rails with attachment hardware and torque wrench

Module 3: Electrical Installation **VR COMPATIBLE**

• Securing equipment enclosures to walls with anchor bolts
• Connecting EMT conduit sections with connectors, couplings and LL, LR and LB bodies
• Creating a flashed roof penetration
• Pulling conductors with a fish tape from a wire spool caddy
• Stripping and connecting wires to a variety of terminals
• Installing NEC labeling on equipment, disconnects and conduit

Module 4: Mechanical Commissioning

• Learn why a mechanical check must be performed prior to an electrical commissioning
• Explore why it is important to take some time to make sure everything has been installed correctly
• Discover the specific steps involved in performing a mechanical solar system check
• Master through simulated training and challenge practice scenarios how to perform a mechanical solar inspection by checking all the essential components of a solar array system to make sure they were installed and labeled correctly, including:
  • array check
  • conduit and roof penetration check
  • labelling check
  • wiring and enclosures check

Module 5: Electrical Commissioning

• Use of a digital multimeter to confirm polarity and proper voltage in array conductors
• How to create closed loops of long conductors to confirm continuity of circuits
• Use of a digital megohmmeter to perform conductor insulation resistance testing
• Sequencing of AC equipment activation to safely energize the solar power system

Module 6: Solar System Troubleshooting

• Diagnose and repair electrical problems by applying a systematic root cause analysis
• Diagnose and repair DC (array side) failures due to switches off or disconnected wires
• Diagnose and repair AC (utility side) failures due to damaged or shorted wires in enclosures, small solar breaker or utility service interruption
• Diagnose and repair Low Power conditions due to array wiring connection mistakes on the DC side
• Diagnose and repair Ground Fault conditions due to damaged or shorted DC wiring or pinched module or optimizer wires

Do I Need to Buy VR Equipment?

No, you do not need to use VR equipment. This course can be completed via computer, mobile device or tablet.

If you would like to use VR, We recommend:

• HTC Vive
• Oculus Rift and Rift S
• Windows Mixed Reality

Note: Not every learning module or simulation is VR Compatible at this time.

This course is delivered online at the student’s own pace. The entire course of 6 modules is approximately 34 hours of training.

Note: Not every learning module or simulation is VR Compatible at this time.