Photovoltaic Solar Energy Systems OpenCourseWare: A Free Undergraduate Course on Photovoltaic Solar Energy Systems by MIT
Individuals may learn more about the challenges and benefits of solar power with this free OpenCourseWare offered by Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). 'Photovoltaic Solar Energy Systems' looks at the mathematics behind the use of photovoltaic panels through formulas and regional weather data. This material can benefit students seeking a Bachelor of Science in Renewable Energy Engineering.
Photovoltaic Solar Energy Systems: Course Specifics
| Degree Level | Free | Audio | Video | Downloads |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate | Yes | No | No | Yes |
| Lectures/Notes | Study Materials | Tests/Quizzes |
|---|---|---|
| Yes | Yes | No |
Photovoltaic Solar Energy Systems: Course Description
With growing concerns over climate change and dwindling natural resources, more people are investigating the potential of renewable energy sources like solar power. This OpenCourseWare offered free online by MIT looks at the factors that go into evaluating the possible benefit of solar energy systems. Lecture notes included with the course explain the mathematics that determines how much radiation a given panel will receive. Other notes analyze the investment cost of a solar energy system versus its eventual return. This course also includes a Java applet that simulates a photovoltaic panel, allowing students to alter its angle, geographic location and the time of year to see how these elements affect the efficiency of the unit. This material can be useful to students seeking a Bachelor of Science in Renewable Energy Engineering.
Lecture notes, assignments, sample weather data and a solar panel simulator are made available free as part of this OpenCourseWare. To start learning more about the process of collecting solar energy, visit the solar energy systems course page.