From PV physics and solar radiation analysis to full grid-tied and off-grid system design, software simulation, and financial feasibility, this course delivers industry-aligned competencies you can use from day one on the job.

Each lecture blends theory, applied engineering calculations, and practical simulation using industry-standard software — progressing logically from fundamentals to real project execution in Egypt and the wider MENA region.

• Understand PV physics, I–V characteristics, and solar radiation analysis.
• Select and size PV modules, inverters, and BOS components using datasheets.
• Design complete grid-tied PV systems manually and using simulation software.
• Size batteries, charge controllers, and off-grid/hybrid system components.
• Engineer solar pumping systems including pump selection and PV sizing.
• Develop project financial models: ROI, LCOE, and feasibility analysis (Egypt focus).
• Navigate permits, regulations, and real project development workflows.

Level 1: Foundations of Solar & PV

Build strong conceptual and physical understanding of solar energy and PV behavior

Lecture 1: Introduction to Solar Energy

Course overview, solar radiation basics, and an introduction to solar energy technologies — PV vs CSP vs Solar Thermal — and their applications across grid-tied, off-grid, and BIPV systems.

Lecture 2: Photovoltaic Effect & PV Cells

Physics of the PV effect, I–V curve fundamentals, key parameters (Voc, Isc, MPP), efficiency factors, and losses.

Lecture 3: PV Modules & Technologies

From cell to module to array — series/parallel effects, mono/poly/thin-film technologies, datasheets, certification standards, and energy payback.

Lecture 4: Solar Radiation & Site Analysis

Radiation data sources, tilt and orientation optimization, irradiance on inclined surfaces, shading impact analysis, and site survey basics.

Lecture 5: PV Market & Economics (Egypt Focus)

Egypt's energy landscape, feed-in tariffs and policies, market opportunities, and basic PV system economics.

Level 2: Grid-Tied PV Systems Engineering

Design and engineer complete grid-connected PV systems

Lecture 6: Inverters & Grid Interaction

Inverter types (string vs central), grid synchronization, fault behavior, and grid code basics.

Lecture 7: BOS Components & Installation

Cables, protection devices, mounting structures, safety practices, and comparison of rooftop vs ground-mount systems.

Lecture 8: System Design Fundamentals

Component selection, system configuration options, cable sizing, protection design, and Performance Ratio (PR).

Lecture 9: Manual Design Workshop — Grid-Tied

Full system sizing from scratch using manual methods and datasheet-based design, with a complete worked case study.

Lecture 10: Software Design & Simulation

PV system simulation using industry software, comparison of net metering vs feed-in tariff models, and inverter efficiency analysis.

Lecture 11: O&M and Troubleshooting

Monitoring systems, fault detection methods, common failure modes, and maintenance strategies.

Level 3: Off-Grid & Hybrid Systems

Design standalone and hybrid PV systems with battery storage

Lecture 12: Off-Grid System Concepts

System configurations, mini-grids and hybrid systems overview, and illustrative case studies.

Lecture 13: Batteries & Load Management

Load estimation, battery technologies (Lead-acid, Li-ion), sizing methodologies, safety considerations, and charge controllers.

Lecture 14: Off-Grid Design Engineering

Full system sizing, voltage drop calculations, protection coordination, wiring, and safety practices.

Lecture 15: Off-Grid Design Workshop + Practical

Hands-on manual design, software simulation, and an introduction to wiring and commissioning concepts.

Level 4: Solar Pumping Systems

Engineer PV-powered water pumping systems end-to-end

Lecture 16: Pumping Fundamentals

Pump types and curves, irrigation methods, and PV pumping system configurations.

Lecture 17: Pumping System Design Workshop

Load calculation, pump selection, PV array sizing, complete bill of materials (BOM), and software-assisted design.

Level 5: Projects, Economics & Real-World Engineering

Prepare for real project execution and industry practice

Lecture 18: PV Project Development

Project lifecycle overview, stakeholders, permits and regulations, and risk analysis.

Lecture 19: Financials & Feasibility

Cost trends, ROI and LCOE concepts, financial modeling basics, and a full Egypt-based case study.

Lecture 20: Final Project + Evaluation

Participants complete a full system design as a capstone project, deliver a presentation, receive instructor feedback, and complete a final assessment.

• I–V curve analysis and module parameter identification
• Site analysis and shading assessment
• Grid-tied system manual sizing (cable, array, inverter)
• Software simulation of a complete grid-tied system
• Battery and off-grid system sizing
• Off-grid design using simulation software
• Solar pumping system BOM and sizing
• Financial feasibility report (ROI / LCOE)
• Final capstone project: full PV system design and presentation
• Additional assignments will follow according to timing

• PVsyst for system simulation and yield analysis
• Excel for sizing calculations and financial modeling
• AutoCAD for system layout and single-line diagrams

• Assignments – 50%
• Level-Project / Final Design – 50%

• All course materials, tools, recordings, templates, and files are proprietary and may not be copied, recorded, distributed, or reused without written permission.
• By registering, participants agree not to share or reproduce content outside personal use or for commercial/teaching purposes.