Topic outline

  • Solar Energy: Grid Integration Study

    Credits: 3 PDH

    PDH Course Description:

    The inevitable transformation of the electrical grid to a more distributed generation configuration requires solar system capabilities well beyond simple net-metered, grid-connected approaches. Time-of-use and peak-demand rate structures will require more sophisticated systems designs that integrate energy management and/or energy storage into the system architecture. Controlling power flow into and from the utility grid will be required to ensure grid reliability and power quality. Alternative protection strategies will also be required to accommodate large numbers of distributed energy sources.
    This 29 page, 3 hour course provides an overview of the R&D needs and describes some pathways to promising solutions. The solutions will, in many cases, require R&D of new components, innovative inverter/controllers, energy management systems, innovative energy storage and a suite of advanced control algorithms, technical methodologies, protocols and the associated communications. It is expected that these solutions will help to push the “advanced integrated system” and “smart grid” evolutionary processes forward in a faster but focused manner .

    Topics:

    • Grid Integration Goals and Objectives
    • Photovoltaic Integration and the utility Distribution System
    • Approaches to enable high integration
    • Mitigating Imapct on the current distribution Infrastructure
    • Design Concepts for Inverters, Controllers, BOS, and Energy Management
    • Excess Energy Storage Solutions
    • Advanced Distribution Systems
    • Microgrid Integration
    • Benefit/Value Analysis

    To take this course:

    1.) Enroll in Course: Click below to enroll:
    (must be logged into your user account)


    2.) Study: Once enrolled, click below to begin the course:

    Download the Study Guide

    3.) Test: Once you've thoroughly read the course materials, please click below to take the final examination.

    Take the final exam

    4.) Certificate: A passing grade of 70% or higher on the exam, is required to receive the certificate of completion for this PDH course.
         NOTE: After the exam is completed, you will need to return to this page, in order to print (download) the certificate of completion.

    Print the Certificate of Completion

    Intended Audience: electrical, mechanical, civil, energy, chemical, environmental, construction,and industrial engineers. However, this course could appeal to engineers of other disciplines as well.
    Publication Source: US Dept. of Energy (Sandia National Laboratories)

    Donald Parnell, PE

    • Topic 1