RDP’s Solar Photovoltaic Systems Masterclass Advances Sustainability Priorities

Jan 06, 2025
Instructor and student examining solar panel

Red Deer Polytechnic (RDP) continues to provide innovative education, training and applied research opportunities that address industrial and societal needs across Alberta.

In collaboration with Stardust Solar, an award-winning, registered provider of The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners ® (NABCEP®), RDP offers a Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Installation Masterclass. This micro-credential helps individuals acquire and enhance 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, Grid-Tied Solar PV System Design and Off-Grid Solar PV System Design. Throughout these modules, students will advance their competencies in a range of areas, including solar electric code, system assessments, shading analysis and wiring.

This engaging online program culminates in six hours of hands-on training at Red Deer Polytechnic. 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 (AEL), a 5,274 square-foot research, teaching and learning facility. This unique applied learning opportunity in the AEL sets RDP’s Solar PV Installation Masterclass program apart from others in Alberta.

The AEL, one of three LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certified facilities at RDP, provides real-time, applied research, interdisciplinary study and work-integrated learning opportunities within this space for more than 1,000 RDP students annually. 

Red Deer Polytechnic’s Solar PV Installation Masterclass is well-suited for many professionals, including carpenters, electricians, solar panel installers and project managers. In addition, individuals can pursue this micro-credential to enhance the sustainability of their homes and reduce utility costs. 

Registration is open for the winter cohort of RDP’s Solar PV Installation Masterclass, which begins January 20, 2025. RDP also offers a spring cohort, starting April 14, 2025. 

Learn more about RDP’s Solar PV Installation Masterclass

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