Red Deer Polytechnic is offering a new course for students interested in the fast-growing solar energy industry.
RDP is collaborating with Stardust Solar, an award-winning B.C.-based company that provides solar panel installation and certification training, to provide a Solar Photovoltaic Masterclass.
The "micro-credential" helps people boost their knowledge and skills in the solar installation industry.
“The Solar Photovoltaic Installation Masterclass offers flexible, online training to prepare individuals for solar installation as a career or for personal interest,” says Martin Thomsen, Interim Dean, Continuing Education and Corporate Training.
“At RDP, we align our programming to help fulfill labour market demand and contribute to the priorities of the province.”
The 20-hour online component of this program consists of three modules: Solar PV Technology, GridTied Solar PV System Design and Off-Grid Solar PV System Design. In these modules, students will become competent in a number of areas, including solar electric code, system assessments, shading analysis and wiring.
The online program ends with six hours of hands-on training at RDP. Students enrolled in the Solar PV Installation Masterclass will design, wire and test a small micro-inverter based rooftop project in the Polytechnic’s Alternative Energy Lab, a nearly 5,300-square-foot research, teaching and learning facility. The lab training sets the program apart from other similar offering in Alberta, says RDP.
Many professions, including carpenters, electricians, solar panel installers, project managers an individuals looking to make their homes more sustainable, can benefit from the masterclass training.
Registration is open for the winter cohort of RDP’s Solar PV Installation Masterclass, which begins Jan. 20, 2025. RDP also offers a spring cohort, starting April 14, 2025. To register or get more information about the masterclass go to rdpolytech.ca/SPS.
