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Model 850-AEC -Alternative Energy Training - Solar Energy and Small Wind Technologies
Why is Alternative Energy Training Important? As technology advances and non-renewable energy sources continue to dwindle, interest in renewable energy sources grows every year. In fact, the demand for qualified solar and small wind technicians is rapidly rising, as more consumers and businesses apply solar energy and small wind systems in their communities. Amatrol’s Alternative Energy Learning System – Wind and Solar (850-AEC) tackles basic alternative energy training through a unique combination of eLearning curriculum and hands-on experience with real industrial solar and wind components.
What are the Most Important Alternative Energy Training Topics?
Amatrol’s interactive multimedia eLearning curriculum teaches basic alternative energy topics using text, audio, video, interactive quizzes, and stunning 3D animations to appeal to a variety of different learning styles. Learners begin with the basics, such as photovoltaic (PV) module operation and small wind turbine generators, and steadily advance to more complex concepts and skills, including PV arrays, solar and wind turbine batteries, and AC/DC small wind turbine and solar PV systems. Learners using Amatrol’s eLearning will find that its comprehensive, detailed curriculum teaches both the foundational knowledge and practical hands-on skills they need to excel on the job.
Why is Industrial Realism Important in Alternative Energy Training?
Amatrol believes that you have to train with the best to be the best. That’s why Amatrol pairs its robust eLearning curriculum with physical training systems packed with real industrial equipment that users will encounter on the job. By developing hands-on skills using industry-standard equipment, learners will hit the ground running when they enter the workforce.
For example, Amatrol’s Alternative Energy Learning System – Wind and Solar consists of a mobile workstation with real-world components commonly found in both commercial and residential applications. A combiner box and multiple-panel solar array allow learners to connect panels in series and parallel. The MPPT charge controller enables programming and communications via Ethernet from an LCD panel. The 400W wind turbine and diversion load controller provide experience with these units commonly found in small wind applications.
Can Alternative Energy Training Be Done Indoors?
A common issue many instructors have when beginning an alternative energy training program is location. After all, don’t you need to be outside to teach solar energy and wind turbine technologies? Fortunately, the answer is no. With Amatrol’s 850-AEC trainer, alternative energy training can occur both indoors and outdoors.
For example, the required Solar PV Array Station (85-SPA1) easily disconnects from the workstation to be used outdoors. Indoors, the solar panel array works in conjunction with the required Solar PV Sun Simulator – Alternative Energy (85-SPS1), which uses artificial lights to simulate sunlight. The 850-AEC can also be connected to client-supplied wind turbines or roof-top solar panels with the addition of optional interface connections.
Are Alternative Energy Certifications Important?
Many employers prefer workers who are certified in alternative energy technologies, because industry-standard certifications provide evidence that workers have the skills employers need. Amatrol’s Alternative Energy Learning System – Wind and Solar provides foundational training that will help students and workers prepare for portions of the solar and small wind certifications offered by such certifying groups as NABCEP (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners), SWCC (Small Wind Certification Council), and ETA (Electronics Technicians Association).
What Options are Available with the 850-AEC?
Amatrol’s 850-AEC offers comprehensive basic solar and wind training, but it can also be expanded to teach additional related topics. Available options include:
- Grid-Tie Learning System – Solar (85-GT1): features a single phase inverter that enables the system to connect to the classroom grid, typical of PV systems being installed today
- Data Acquisition Learning System – Solar / Wind (85-ADA1): features a multi-point data acquisition module, PC software, and sensors that monitor voltage and current in various parts of both wind and solar circuits, enabling students to study operation via data analysis
Both of these options are panel-mounted units that can easily be added to the 850-AEC workstation. For those wishing to introduce students to more foundational solar and wind concepts, there are also two optional eLearning courses available: Solar Concepts (950-SC1) and Wind Concepts (950-WC1).
- Convenient Indoor/Outdoor Use
- eLearning Curriculum + Real World Components
- Multiple Panel Array and Modern Communications
- Grid-Tie and Data Acquisition Options
- Grid-Tie Learning System (85-GT1)
- Data Acquisition (85-ADA1)
- Solar Concepts Learning System (950-SC1)
- Wind Concepts Learning System (950-WC1)
- Solar PV Interface (20097)
- Wind Turbine Interface (20099)
- Solar PV Array Station (85-SPA1)
- Solar PV Sun Simulator - Alternative Energy (85-SPS1)
- Computer: See requirements
- Electricity (120 VAC/60 Hz/1 phase)