Green Training

Fundamentals of a Photovoltaic System

This course provides an introduction to photovoltaic (PV) concepts, applications, and the solar energy industry. Topics covered include the basics of electricity, load estimation, energy efficiency, solar site surveying, photovoltaic system components, sizing, financial analysis, design, installation concepts, and maintenance.

This is a basic course which will give those new to the industry insight on what PV is about. This is a prerequisite course for those with no PV experience. Taken with Introduction to Solar Photovoltaic Design and Installation, this course prepares participants to sit for the NABCEP PV Entry Level Certificate of Knowledge exam.

**According to Hawaii law, all electrical work needs to be performed by a licensed electrician.

Required Prep: Age 18 years or older; high school diploma or equivalent

- Section 1 - May 7 - Jun 4; MTTh; 5:00 pm - 7:30 pm; 12 mtgs
Honolulu Community College; $665
course code: 122F1QGSP101A
Introduction to Solar Photovoltaic Design and Installation

Participants will learn about the main components of a photovoltaic system and the basics of the principles by which they are able to transform energy from sunlight to electricity. This will include systems that are tied to the utility grid as well as systems that stand alone or include storage back-up with batteries.

Upon completion of this course, you will qualify to take the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) PV Entry Level certification exam. Course and exam topics are the same and they include:

  • PV Applications
  • Basics of Electricity
  • Safety Basics
  • PV System Components
  • Efficient Appliances
  • Solar Site Analysis
  • PV System Wiring and Over Current Protection
  • Stand-Alone PV System Sizing
  • Grid-Tie System Sizing
  • Component Specification
  • System Costs and Economics


**According to Hawaii law, all electrical work must be performed by a licensed electrician.

Required Prep: Must be 18 years or older, have a high school diploma or equivalent, and experience with electrical systems or completion of Fundamentals of a Photovoltaic System

- Section 1 - Jun 12 - Jul 14; TThSat; 4:30 pm - 7:30 pm; 12 mtgs
Honolulu Community College; $750
course code: 122F1QGSP001A
Additional Info: Saturday schedule: 9:00 am - 12:00 pm