Topic outline

  • Wind Power Basics and Small Wind Systems

    Credits: 3 PDH

    PDH Course Description:

    This 3 hour, 39 pg. course is a combination of two governmental publications.
    The first publication covers the steps, that the U.S. Govt. and the wind energy industry are taking to develop wind energy technology and infrastructure.
    The second publication is an introduction to small wind energy systems, used at rural residential sites.

    Topics:

    (1st Publication):
    • Overview of the DOE Wind Energy Program
    • Rural Economic Development
    • Wind Power for Native Americans
    • Wind for Schools
    • Environmental Assessment
    • Integrating Wind Systems with the Grid
    • Enhancing Critical Transmission Infrastructure
    • Large Wind Technologies
    • Distributed Generation - Small Wind Systems (100kw and less)
    • Developing International Standards for Wind Systems
    • Future Programs for Wind Energy
    Topics (2nd Publication):
    • Introduction to Small Wind Systems
    • Making a Home More Energy Efficient
    • Practicality of using a Wind Energy
    • Wind Turbine Sizing
    • Basic Parts of a Small Wind Electric System
    • Costs of Wind Systems
    • Installation and Maintenance Support
    • Energy Output of Wind Systems
    • Analyzing Available Wind on a Site
    • Choosing the Best Site for a Wind Turbine
    • Connecting a System to the Utility Grid
    • Going “Off-Grid”
    • Glossary of Terms

    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 (National Renewable Energy Laboratory)

    Harlan Bengtson PhD, PE
    • Topic 1