Program Overview

Photovoltaic Systems (NE6204)

Course Fact File

• Code: NE6204
• Duration: 15 weeks
• Teaching Mode: Part-Time
• NFQ Level: Level 9
• Fees: €1,000 - HCI Subsidy initiative
• Closing Date: 28/08/2024
• Venue: Blended delivery
• Credits: 5
• Start Date: Proposed Date: 09/09/2024

Outline

The goal of this module is to introduce the fundamentals of photovoltaic energy conversion from the design and operation of individual cells to the implementation of utility-scale grid-connected photovoltaic systems.

Module Content

• The solar resource
• Solar cell properties and design
• Photovoltaic (PV) modules
• Stand-alone PV System design
• PV System components
• Grid-connected PV Systems
• Specific purpose PV applications
• Concentrator photovoltaics
• Solar tracking
• Monitoring and characterization
• Energy storage and recovery

Additional Teaching Mode Information

• 24 x 1Hrs Lectures
• 2 x 2Hrs Tutorials

Practicalities

• Total marks: 100
• Written examination: 70 marks
• Continuous assessment: 30 marks - groupwork - 2 x problem based learning design exercises

Why Choose

On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:

1. Describe and explain the operation of a variety of solar cell types.
2. Design a solar cell module.
3. Design a suitably sized PV system for a specific application.
4. Characterize the performance of a solar cell.
5. Analyse the performance of a PV system.
6. Select and design a battery storage system for a specific application.
7. Explain the concepts of photovoltaic energy conversion.

Skills and Careers Information

• Learning Pathway: Students completing this Micro Credential gain 5 credits exemption from the PG Cert in Offshore Renewable Energy.

Requirements

Applicants must have:

• A Second Class Honours Grade 2 (or equivalent) in a primary honours degree (NFQ Level 8) in any discipline of Engineering
• OR
• A Second Class Honours Grade 2 (or equivalent) in a primary honours degree (NFQ Level 8) in areas of science that required having completed level 8 mathematical subjects deemed equivalent to those of engineering (e.g. Physics, Mathematical Sciences, some Computing Science degrees), pending assessment by Programme Director
• OR
• A pass in any accredited level 8 Engineering degree followed by professional experience deemed of sufficient added value, pending assessment by the Programme Director.

A quota will be allocated to applicants who do not meet these entry requirements. These applicants will be considered under Recognition of Prior Learning and assessed on the following factors:

• Academic achievement
• Prior Work Experience
• Letter of Reference
• Personal Statement

Fees and Costs

The HCI Pillar 3 Micro-credential Learner Fee Subsidy has been introduced to enable more learners to address critical skills gaps and engage with lifelong learning.

The fee for this micro-credential is €1,000 but applicants who meet the subsidy requirements can attend this micro-credential for €200.

How To Apply

Please select the following options during your online application (once you have created your profile):

• Start a new Micro-credentials application by selecting as below
• In the application level tab select the options below and then select the programme/module you'd like to apply for