Quantifying Sunlight for PV System Design

Getting the most out of solar starts with knowing your sun. With its intensity varying by location, time of day, and season, learning to measure and quantify available sunlight is the starting point for any good PV system design that aims to maximize energy production. In this article, we go over a few key ...

By |2026-03-31T09:36:08-06:00March 31st, 2026|Categories: Learning|Comments Off on Quantifying Sunlight for PV System Design

Making the Most of Residential Solar Sales Site Visits

A successful career in solar sales requires more than just product knowledge. It demands an understanding of electrical systems in order to assess a site accurately, plus strong interpersonal skills to communicate with the customer. This combination of technical skills and soft skills separates strong salespeople from the rest. Look and Listen ...

By |2026-03-12T09:42:03-06:00March 11th, 2026|Categories: Learning|Comments Off on Making the Most of Residential Solar Sales Site Visits

The Basics of Multi-Mode Solar

The renewable energy landscape is always progressing, and one of the more exciting developments is the rise of multi-mode solar systems. Representing the cutting edge of solar technology, these systems offer flexibility and reliability for homeowners and businesses alike. What Makes Multi-Mode Systems Special? Multi-mode solar systems are the Swiss Army knives ...

By |2025-11-05T12:36:45-07:00October 23rd, 2025|Categories: Learning|Comments Off on The Basics of Multi-Mode Solar

Overview: Tools & Techniques for PV System Operations & Maintenance

Operations and maintenance (O&M) is critical for keeping solar photovoltaic systems performing at their best over their lifetime. While we often think of solar as a "set it and forget it" technology, proper maintenance ensures systems meet production targets, maintain warranties, and operate safely. Why O&M Matters Proper O&M serves ...

By |2025-05-27T09:57:52-06:00April 22nd, 2025|Categories: Learning|Comments Off on Overview: Tools & Techniques for PV System Operations & Maintenance

Understanding Grid-Direct Solar Systems: Configurations and Applications

In the evolving landscape of renewable energy, grid-direct photovoltaic (PV) systems have become the most common solar installation type over the past decade. These systems offer a practical and often economical entry point into solar energy production for homes and businesses. Let's explore how these systems work, their variations, and when they might be ...

By |2025-03-17T11:21:39-06:00March 13th, 2025|Categories: Learning, Solar Training (Electric)|Comments Off on Understanding Grid-Direct Solar Systems: Configurations and Applications

Understanding Current, Loads & Power Generation

When it comes to designing and installing solar electric systems, having a good grasp of the fundamentals is crucial. In this post, we'll briefly look into the types of electrical current, the various loads we need to power, and how photovoltaic (PV) modules generate electricity. This knowledge forms the foundation for determining the best PV ...

By |2024-10-07T15:30:50-06:00October 7th, 2024|Categories: Learning|Comments Off on Understanding Current, Loads & Power Generation

Lithium Ion Battery Recycling

There has been a lot of discussion from students and instructors on SEI’s campus regarding lithium battery recycling. SEI’s Lab Manager and Instructor, Alex Jahp, was able to put together some information for our students and staff on the topic. Alex began his solar career with SEI courses in 2015 and now, as the Paonia ...

By |2024-04-16T09:56:26-06:00September 29th, 2022|Categories: Battery-Based, Learning, Solar Forward, Solar Training (Electric)|Comments Off on Lithium Ion Battery Recycling

Solar Panel Protection from Critters

OVERVIEW Pesky rodents can cause major issues in any solar system. In this informative article, Trevor Schwartz, SEI alumni and Field Service Technician at StraightUp Solar, shares his expertise on solar panel protection from critters "I was documenting much of my work on the roof as a Service Tech and soon realized that ...

By |2024-04-16T09:59:22-06:00January 31st, 2022|Categories: Learning, Uncategorized|Comments Off on Solar Panel Protection from Critters