Online Course Schedule—
Winter 2009 and Spring 2010
Photovoltaic Design, 2 Credits
Instructor: Justine Sanchez, Solar Energy International
Sep 14 — Oct 25, 2009 This course explores the use of sunlight to produce electricity. The course targets students seeking employment in the solar energy industry as well as people seeking to apply solar electricity for his or her own use. Students will learn the practical and economical design of photovoltaic power systems which are independent of the utility grid and those that are grid-tied. Students will learn system sizing, site analysis, hardware specification and component selection.Renewable Energy for the Developing World, 3 Credits
Instructor: Ken Walz, Chemistry and Engineering Instructor, MATC
Instructor: Jon Christian, Manufacturing and Engineering Instructor, MATC,
Instructor: Ian Woofenden, Renewable Energy Instructor, Solar Energy International
Jan 12 — Mar 2, 2010 The course provides an examination of energy and economics in developing countries with special consideration given to renewable energy sources. The course will combine 8-weeks of online instruction with 10 days of travel and study abroad in Costa Rica. Students will learn to specify, design, and install renewable energy systems for the developing world. Students will install operational renewable energy systems in field with current renewable energy equipment. Topics and activities covered in the course will include: Fundamentals of International travel; Geography, culture, and language of Costa Rica; Basic overview of renewable energy technologies; Energy issues and economics in the developing world; Social & cultural issues of working in the developing world; Technical, safety, and O&M issues in the developing world. Field work will include design and installation of one or more of the following types of renewable systems: Small scale off-grid Photovoltaic (solar-electric) system (<200W); Micro=Hydropower generator (<2kW); Solar scale wind generator (2kW); Solar thermal domestic hot water system; Household methane biodigestor. This is a 3-credit, 200 level college transferrable elective course. These credits may also be applied towards the MATC Certificate in Renewable Energy Technology and International Studies. See the MATC Catalog for class details.Sustainable Home Design Practices, 2 Credits
Instructor: Rachel Connor, Solar Energy International
Oct 12 — Nov 22, 2009 This course covers the principles behind designing and building residential structures that achieve optimal year-round comfort, reduce energy consumption, improve indoor air quality, and limit environmental impact. The emphasis is on integrated design using a whole-building approach, applying building science and integrating green design strategies into the built environment. Also covered will be the synergistic relationship between climate-sensitive design and natural building materials.