Course Content

KM-01: Workplace fundamentals

This module introduces learners to the foundational workplace knowledge, principles, and practices required within the Solar Photovoltaic (PV) industry. Learners will develop an understanding of workplace structures, employee and employer relationships, communication practices, workplace ethics, organisational processes, and workplace health and safety requirements relevant to PV environments. The module also introduces learners to the PV industry, workplace responsibilities, labour relations, communication systems, organisational structures, and the legal and safety frameworks that govern the work of a Solar Photovoltaic Service Technician.

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KM-01-KT01 — Employment

KM-01-KT02 — Organisation of Work

KM-01-KT03 — Employer-Employee Relationships

KM-01-KT04 — Concepts Related to the Employee’s Performance of Work

KM-01-KT05 — Employer Organisations

KM-01-KT06 — External Environments in Which Organisations Operate

KM-01-KT07 — Information and Communication Technology at Work

KM-01-KT08 — Ethics at Work

KM-01-KT09 — Current Trends Influencing Work

KM-01-KT10 — Communication

Lesson 10 Quiz.

KM-01-KT11 — Introduction to the PV Technician

Lesson 11 Quiz.

KM-01-KT12 — Workplace Health and Safety for PV Technician

Lesson 12 Quiz.

KM-01: Workplace Fundamentals - Summative Assessment

KM-02: Tools, Equipment and Materials

This module introduces you to the tools, equipment, materials, and measuring instruments used by a Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Technician. You will learn how to identify, use, maintain, and safely handle various hand tools, power tools, lifting equipment, marking-off equipment, soldering equipment, and riveting tools used during PV installation and maintenance activities. You will also explore engineering drawings, wiring techniques, lifting processes, safety procedures, and equipment care practices required within renewable energy and PV environments. The module develops your understanding of how proper tool selection, safe operation, and equipment maintenance contribute to efficient, safe, and high-quality installation work.

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KM-02-KT01 — Hand Tools and Power Tools

KM-02-KT02 — Marking-Off Equipment

KM-02-KT03 — Lifting Equipment

KM-02-KT04 — Soldering Equipment and Wiring Techniques

KM-02-KT05 — Equipment for Riveting

KM-02: Tools, Equipment and Materials - Summative Assessment

KM-03: Electricity and Electronics

This module introduces you to the principles of electricity and electronics required for photovoltaic (PV) installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting activities. You will develop an understanding of electrical concepts, electronic components, circuit operation, measuring instruments, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), rectification systems, and electrical safety practices used within PV environments. You will also explore conductors, insulators, semiconductors, electric circuits, magnetism, AC and DC electricity, opto-electronics, control devices, and testing equipment used by PV technicians. The module builds the foundational electrical and electronic knowledge required to install, maintain, test, and troubleshoot PV systems safely and effectively.

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KM-03-KT01 — Fundamentals of Electricity

KM-03-KT02 — International System of Units (SI) Symbols, Atomic Structure and Electronic Terms

KM-03-KT03 — Load Devices in Electronic Circuits

KM-03-KT04 — Conductors, Control Devices and Protective Devices

KM-03-KT05 — Electronic Circuits and Circuit Diagrams

KM-03-KT06 — Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs)

KM-03-KT07 — Opto-Electronics

KM-03-KT08 — Rectification

KM-03-KT09 — Measuring Tools and Testing Instruments

KM-03: Electricity and Electronics - Summative Assessment

KM-04: Wire Ways, Wiring and Earthing

This module introduces you to wire ways, electrical wiring systems, earthing, and bonding practices used within photovoltaic (PV) installations and electrical environments. You will learn how electrical conductors, conduits, cables, protective systems, and grounding methods support safe and effective electrical installations. You will also explore wire way types, cable selection, wiring regulations, electrical diagrams, electrical components, earthing systems, bonding requirements, and safe installation practices prescribed within SANS 10142-1 and related electrical standards. Understanding these concepts is essential for safe installation, maintenance, testing, and protection of PV systems and electrical equipment.

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KM-04-KT01 — Wire Ways

KM-04-KT02 — Wiring of Installations / Components

KM-04-KT03 — Earthing and Bonding

KM-04: Wire Ways, Wiring and Earthing - Summative Assessment

KM-05: Electrical Supply Systems and Transformers

This module introduces you to electrical supply systems, alternating current (AC), direct current (DC), waveform characteristics, electrical circuit calculations, and transformers used within photovoltaic (PV) and electrical systems. You will learn the concepts, theories, and operating principles that govern electrical energy generation, conversion, transmission, and distribution. You will also explore AC and DC supply systems, periodic waveforms, sources of direct current, electrical calculations, transformer construction, transformer operation, and transformer applications used in PV and industrial environments. Understanding electrical supply systems and transformers is essential for safe installation, troubleshooting, maintenance, and operation of PV systems and electrical equipment.

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KM-05-KT01 — Concepts, Theories and Principles of Supply Systems

KM-05-KT02 — Transformers

KM-05: Electrical Supply Systems and Transformers - Summative Assessment

KM-06: Protection Systems and Lightning Protection

This module introduces you to protection systems and lightning protection used within photovoltaic (PV) and electrical installations. You will learn the principles, functions, and applications of electrical protection systems used to protect equipment, conductors, transformers, switchgear, motors, generators, and PV systems from faults, overloads, short circuits, and lightning-related damage. You will also explore protection zones, transformer protection, low voltage protection, conductor protection, ground fault protection, over-current protection, lightning protection systems, surge protection devices, grounding methods, and safe maintenance procedures associated with electrical protection systems. Understanding these protection methods is essential for ensuring safe, reliable, and compliant PV system operation.

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KM-06-KT01 — Protection Systems

KM-06-KT02 — Low Voltage Protection

KM-06-KT03 — Lightning Protection

KM-06: Protection Systems and Lightning Protection - Summative Assessment

KM-07: Power Plant Basics, Power Conditioning and Control, Switch Gear and Control Gear

This module introduces learners to power plant basics, power conditioning and control, and switch gear and control gear required by a PV Technician. Learners will explore high current systems, LV/MV/HV systems, substations, sub-station equipment, grid connections, and switching systems used in hybrid systems and co-generation environments. The module also covers switchgear systems, protection systems, electrical distribution, and power control applications used within photovoltaic and electrical power systems.

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KM-07-KT01 — Power Plant Basics

KM-07-KT02 — Power Conditioning and Control

KM-07-KT03 — Switch Gear and Control Gear

KM-07: Power Plant Basics, Power Conditioning and Control, Switch Gear and Control Gear - Summative Assessment

KM-08: Rotating Electrical Machinery

This module introduces learners to rotating electrical machinery required by a PV Technician. Learners will explore alternating current (AC) motors and direct current (DC) motors, including their construction, principles of operation, motor types, testing principles, and motor protection systems used within electrical and photovoltaic environments.

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KM-08-KT01 — Rotating Electrical Machinery – AC Motors

KM-08-KT02 — Rotating Electrical Machinery – DC Motors

KM-08: Rotating Electrical Machinery - Summative Assessment

KM-09: Mechanics, Hydraulics and Actuators

This module introduces learners to the principles of mechanics, hydraulics, and actuators required by a PV Technician. Learners will explore concepts of forces, torque, motion, gravity, hydraulic systems, hydraulic components, actuators, and the operation of mechanical and fluid power systems used within photovoltaic and industrial environments.

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KM-09-KT01 — Mechanics

KM-09-KT02 — Hydraulics

KM-09-KT03 — Actuators

KM-09: Mechanics, Hydraulics and Actuators - Summative Assessment

KM-10: Renewable Energy

This module introduces learners to the concept of renewable energy and the legislative and economic frameworks that govern photovoltaic (PV) systems in South Africa. Learners will explore the development of photovoltaic technology, fossil fuel availability, environmental impacts of fossil fuels, energy security, market influences, PV system costs, and local manufacturing and development within the renewable energy sector.

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KM-10-KT01 — Overview of Renewable Energy

KM-10-KT02 — Legislative and Economic Frameworks

KM-10: Renewable Energy - Summative Assessment

KM-11: Components of PV Systems

This module introduces learners to the components of photovoltaic (PV) systems and the theoretical concepts related to solar PV technology. Learners will explore PV array systems, solar radiation, the photovoltaic effect, solar cell types, electrical properties of solar cells, PV modules, inverters, batteries, charge controllers, cabling systems, and protection devices used within PV installations.

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KM-11-KT01 — PV Array Systems and PV Applications

KM-11-KT02 — Solar Radiation

KM-11-KT03 — The Photovoltaic Effect

KM-11-KT04 — Solar Cell Types

KM-11-KT05 — Electrical Properties of Solar Cells

KM-11-KT06 — PV Modules

KM-11-KT07 — PV Junction/String Boxes, Smart Boxes, String Diodes, Connectors and Fuses

KM-11-KT08 — Inverters

KM-11-KT09 — Cabling, Wiring and Connection Systems, Installation Materials and Switching

KM-11-KT10 — Batteries

Lesson 10 Quiz.

KM-11-KT11 — Charge Controllers

Lesson 11 Quiz.

KM-11: Components of PV Systems - Summative Assessment

KM-12 — Designing and Installing Grid-Connected and Stand-Alone PV Systems

This module focuses on understanding the theory and principles involved in designing and installing grid-connected and stand-alone photovoltaic (PV) systems. The module places strong emphasis on site visits, surveys, shading analysis, PV system concepts, and mounting systems used within solar PV installations.

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KM-12-KT01 — Shadow Types

KM-12-KT02 — Design of Grid-Connected PV Systems

KM-12-KT03 — Design of Stand-Alone PV Systems

KM-12-KT04 — Mounting Systems and Building Integration

KM-12: Designing and Installing Grid-Connected and Stand-Alone PV Systems - Summative Assessment

KM-13 — Maintenance, Trouble-Shooting, Fault-Finding and Repairs to PV Systems

This module focuses on the maintenance, troubleshooting, fault-finding, and repair of photovoltaic (PV) systems used in both PV farms and domestic stand-alone installations. Learners will develop knowledge and practical understanding of maintenance procedures, monitoring systems, troubleshooting methods, repair techniques, and safe working procedures associated with PV systems.

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KM-13-KT01 — Maintenance of PV Systems

KM-13-KT02 — Trouble-Shooting PV Systems

KM-13-KT03 — Repairing and/or Replacing Components of PV Systems

KM-13: Maintenance, Trouble-Shooting, Fault-Finding and Repairs to PV Systems - Summative Assessment

PM-01: Mitigate and Respond to Hazards Associated with PV System Installation and Maintenance

Module Summary This practical module introduces learners to workplace hazard mitigation, emergency response procedures, first aid, and fire-fighting procedures associated with PV system installation and maintenance environments. Learners will develop practical skills required to: * identify workplace hazards, * apply emergency response procedures, * perform first aid activities, * conduct fire-fighting procedures, * apply workplace safety standards, * and respond appropriately to operational emergencies within PV installation and maintenance environments. The module focuses on: * workplace hazard response, * emergency preparedness, * first aid procedures, * fire-fighting techniques, * operational safety compliance, * incident response, * and workplace emergency coordination.

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PM-01-PS01: Identify Workplace Hazards and Safety Risks

PM-01-PS02: Apply Emergency Response Procedures

PM-01-PS03: Perform Basic First Aid Procedures

PM-01-PS04: Apply Fire-Fighting and Fire Prevention Procedures

PM-01-PS05: Complete Incident Reporting and Safety Compliance Procedures

Module Summative

PM-02: Apply and Maintain Safety During PV Installation and Maintenance Activities

Module Summary This practical module introduces learners to applying and maintaining operational safety during PV installation and maintenance activities. Learners will develop practical skills required to work safely at heights, apply electrical safety procedures, use personal protective equipment (PPE), maintain safe work environments, and comply with workplace operational safety standards during PV system operations. The module focuses on: * workplace operational safety, * working-at-height procedures, * electrical safety procedures, * PPE usage, * safe tool and equipment handling, * lockout and isolation procedures, * housekeeping and site safety, * and workplace safety compliance. The module equips learners with the practical skills required to safely perform PV installation and maintenance activities while maintaining workplace operational safety standards.

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PM-02-PS01: Apply Workplace Safety Procedures During PV Installation Activities

PM-02-PS02: Apply Working-at-Height Safety Procedures

PM-02-PS03: Apply Electrical Safety and Isolation Procedures

PM-02-PS04: Use PPE, Tools and Safety Equipment Safely

PM-02-PS05: Maintain Workplace Housekeeping and Safety Compliance

Module Summative

PM-03: Install Solar PV Modules

Module Summary This practical module introduces learners to the procedures required to install Solar PV modules safely and according to workplace operational standards, manufacturer specifications, and electrical compliance requirements. Learners will develop practical skills required to: * prepare PV installation sites, * position and mount PV modules, * install mounting structures, * secure PV modules correctly, * perform electrical connections, * verify installation quality, * and apply workplace safety and compliance procedures during installation activities. The module focuses on: * PV module installation procedures, * mounting structure installation, * rooftop and ground-mount preparation, * electrical connection procedures, * alignment and positioning, * operational safety, * equipment handling, * and installation quality verification.

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PM-03-PS01: Prepare the PV Installation Site and Work Area

PM-03-PS02: Install and Secure PV Mounting Structures

PM-03-PS03: Position and Mount Solar PV Modules

PM-03-PS04: Perform PV Module Electrical Connections

PM-03-PS05: Verify PV Module Alignment, Installation Quality and Safety Compliance

PM-03-PS06: Complete Post-Installation Inspection and Operational Documentation

Module Summative

PM-04: Install and Maintain DC PV Components

Module Summary This practical module introduces learners to the installation, connection, testing, inspection, and maintenance of DC PV components used within Solar PV systems. Learners will develop practical skills required to install and maintain DC electrical components safely and according to workplace operational standards, manufacturer specifications, and electrical compliance requirements. The module focuses on: * DC PV component installation, * DC cabling and connections, * combiner box installation, * DC isolator installation, * electrical testing and verification, * maintenance procedures, * troubleshooting procedures, * and workplace operational safety compliance. The module equips learners with the practical skills required to safely install, maintain, inspect, and verify DC PV system components within workplace operational environments.

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PM-04-PS01: Prepare and Inspect DC PV Installation Components and Work Areas

PM-04-PS02: Install DC PV Cabling and Routing Systems

PM-04-PS03: Install and Connect DC PV Components and Isolators

PM-04-PS04: Perform DC Electrical Connections, Testing and Verification

PM-04-PS05: Conduct Maintenance and Troubleshooting on DC PV Components

PM-04-PS06: Complete Inspection, Compliance and Operational Documentation

Module Summative

PM-05: Install and Maintain AC PV Components

Module Summary This practical module introduces learners to the installation, connection, testing, inspection, and maintenance of AC PV components used within Solar PV systems. Learners will develop practical skills required to install and maintain AC electrical components safely and according to workplace operational standards, manufacturer specifications, and electrical compliance requirements. The module focuses on: * AC PV component installation, * AC cabling and distribution systems, * inverter installation and configuration, * AC isolator installation, * electrical testing and verification, * maintenance and troubleshooting procedures, * operational safety procedures, * and workplace compliance documentation. The module equips learners with the practical skills required to safely install, maintain, inspect, and verify AC PV system components within workplace operational environments.

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PM-05-PS01: Prepare and Inspect AC PV Installation Components and Work Areas

PM-05-PS02: Install AC Cabling and Distribution Systems

PM-05-PS03: Install and Configure Inverters and AC Isolators

PM-05-PS04: Perform AC Electrical Connections, Testing and Verification

PM-05-PS05: Conduct Maintenance and Troubleshooting on AC PV Components

PM-05-PS06: Complete Inspection, Compliance and Operational Documentation

Module Summative

PM-06: Install and Maintain PV Earthing and Lightning Protection Systems

Module Summary This practical module introduces learners to the installation, testing, inspection, maintenance, and verification of PV earthing and lightning protection systems used within Solar PV installations. Learners will develop practical skills required to safely install grounding systems, bonding systems, surge protection devices, and lightning protection components according to workplace operational standards, electrical regulations, and manufacturer specifications. The module focuses on: * PV earthing system installation, * grounding and bonding procedures, * lightning protection systems, * surge protection installation, * earthing continuity testing, * electrical safety verification, * maintenance and troubleshooting procedures, * and workplace operational compliance. The module equips learners with the practical skills required to safely install, inspect, maintain, and verify PV earthing and lightning protection systems within workplace operational environments.

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PM-06-PS01: Prepare and Inspect Earthing and Lightning Protection Installation Work Areas

PM-06-PS02: Install PV Earthing and Bonding Systems

PM-06-PS03: Install Surge Protection and Lightning Protection Components

PM-06-PS04: Perform Earthing Continuity, Resistance and Safety Testing

PM-06-PS05: Conduct Maintenance and Troubleshooting on Earthing and Lightning Protection Systems

PM-06-PS06: Complete Inspection, Compliance and Operational Documentation

Module Summative

PM-07: Install and Maintain Solar PV Storage Systems

Module Summary This practical module introduces learners to the installation, connection, testing, inspection, maintenance, and troubleshooting of Solar PV storage systems used within PV installations. Learners will develop practical skills required to safely install and maintain battery storage systems, battery management systems, charging equipment, and associated storage components according to workplace operational standards, manufacturer specifications, and electrical compliance requirements. The module focuses on: * battery storage system installation, * battery bank configuration, * battery management systems, * charging system installation, * electrical testing and verification, * maintenance and troubleshooting procedures, * workplace electrical safety, * and operational compliance documentation. The module equips learners with the practical skills required to safely install, maintain, inspect, and verify Solar PV storage systems within workplace operational environments.

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PM-07-PS01: Prepare and Inspect Solar PV Storage System Installation Work Areas

PM-07-PS02: Install Battery Storage Systems and Mounting Structures

PM-07-PS03: Install and Connect Battery Management and Charging Systems

PM-07-PS04: Perform Battery System Electrical Connections, Testing and Verification

PM-07-PS05: Conduct Maintenance and Troubleshooting on Solar PV Storage Systems

PM-07-PS06: Complete Inspection, Compliance and Operational Documentation

Module Summative

PM-08: Install and Maintain Solar PV Water Heating and Pumping Systems

Module Summary This practical module introduces learners to the installation, connection, testing, inspection, maintenance, and troubleshooting of Solar PV water heating and pumping systems used within Solar PV installations. Learners will develop practical skills required to safely install and maintain water heating systems, solar pumps, controllers, piping systems, and associated electrical and mechanical components according to workplace operational standards, manufacturer specifications, and compliance requirements. The module focuses on: * solar water heating system installation, * solar pumping system installation, * piping and fluid system connections, * pump and controller installation, * electrical and mechanical testing, * maintenance and troubleshooting procedures, * workplace safety procedures, * and operational compliance documentation. The module equips learners with the practical skills required to safely install, maintain, inspect, and verify Solar PV water heating and pumping systems within workplace operational environments.

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PM-08-PS01: Prepare and Inspect Solar PV Water Heating and Pumping Installation Work Areas

PM-08-PS02: Install Solar PV Water Heating and Pumping Structures and Components

PM-08-PS03: Install and Connect Pumps, Controllers and Piping Systems

PM-08-PS04: Perform Electrical, Mechanical and Operational Testing Procedures

PM-08-PS05: Conduct Maintenance and Troubleshooting on Solar PV Water Heating and Pumping Systems

PM-08-PS06: Complete Inspection, Compliance and Operational Documentation

Module Summative

PM-09: Install and Maintain Hybrid Solar PV Systems

Module Summary This practical module introduces learners to the installation, configuration, testing, maintenance, and troubleshooting of Hybrid Solar PV systems used within residential, commercial, and industrial environments. Learners will develop practical skills required to safely install and maintain hybrid PV systems integrating PV modules, battery storage systems, inverters, AC and DC systems, backup power systems, and monitoring equipment according to workplace operational standards, manufacturer specifications, and electrical compliance requirements. The module focuses on: * hybrid PV system installation, * hybrid inverter configuration, * battery storage integration, * AC and DC system integration, * backup and changeover systems, * system testing and commissioning, * maintenance and troubleshooting procedures, * and workplace operational compliance documentation.

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PM-09-PS01: Prepare and Inspect Hybrid Solar PV System Installation Work Areas

PM-09-PS02: Install Hybrid Solar PV Structural, AC and DC Components

PM-09-PS03: Install and Configure Hybrid Inverters and Battery Storage Systems

PM-09-PS04: Install Backup Power, Changeover and Monitoring Systems

PM-09-PS05: Perform Hybrid System Electrical Testing, Configuration and Commissioning

PM-09-PS06: Conduct Maintenance and Troubleshooting on Hybrid Solar PV Systems

PM-09-PS07: Complete Inspection, Compliance and Operational Documentation

Module Summative

PM-10: Install and Maintain Grid-Tied Solar PV Systems

Module Summary This practical module introduces learners to the installation, configuration, testing, commissioning, maintenance, and troubleshooting of grid-tied Solar PV systems used within residential, commercial, and industrial environments. Learners will develop practical skills required to safely install and maintain grid-tied PV systems, grid synchronization systems, inverters, monitoring systems, AC and DC components, and protection systems according to workplace operational standards, manufacturer specifications, and electrical compliance requirements. The module focuses on: * grid-tied PV system installation, * grid synchronization procedures, * inverter installation and configuration, * AC and DC integration, * monitoring and communication systems, * electrical testing and commissioning, * maintenance and troubleshooting procedures, * and workplace operational compliance documentation.

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PM-10-PS01: Prepare and Inspect Grid-Tied Solar PV System Installation Work Areas

PM-10-PS02: Install Grid-Tied Solar PV Structural, AC and DC Components

PM-10-PS03: Install and Configure Grid-Tied Inverters and Protection Systems

PM-10-PS04: Install Monitoring, Communication and Grid Synchronization Systems

PM-10-PS05: Perform Grid-Tied System Electrical Testing, Synchronization and Commissioning

PM-10-PS06: Conduct Maintenance and Troubleshooting on Grid-Tied Solar PV Systems

PM-10-PS07: Complete Inspection, Compliance and Operational Documentation

Module Summative

PM-11: Perform Solar PV System Inspection, Testing, Fault Finding and Commissioning

Module Summary This practical module introduces learners to the inspection, testing, fault finding, commissioning, verification, and operational handover of Solar PV systems used within residential, commercial, and industrial environments. Learners will develop practical skills required to inspect, test, diagnose faults, commission, verify, and certify Solar PV systems according to workplace operational standards, manufacturer specifications, and electrical compliance requirements. The module focuses on: * Solar PV system inspection procedures, * electrical testing and verification, * fault finding and diagnostics, * commissioning procedures, * system performance verification, * operational troubleshooting, * compliance inspections, * and workplace operational documentation.

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PM-11-PS01: Prepare and Inspect Solar PV Systems for Testing and Commissioning

PM-11-PS02: Perform Electrical Inspection and Compliance Verification Procedures

PM-11-PS03: Conduct Electrical Testing and Operational Verification

PM-11-PS04: Perform Solar PV System Fault Finding and Diagnostics

PM-11-PS05: Conduct Corrective Actions and System Rectification Procedures

PM-11-PS06: Perform System Commissioning and Operational Handover Procedures

PM-11-PS07: Complete Inspection, Compliance and Operational Documentation

Module Summative

PM-12: Perform Solar PV System Monitoring, Performance Analysis and Energy Efficiency Optimization

Module Summary This practical module introduces learners to the monitoring, analysis, optimization, inspection, and maintenance of Solar PV system performance within residential, commercial, and industrial environments. Learners will develop practical skills required to monitor Solar PV system performance, analyze operational data, identify system inefficiencies, optimize energy performance, and maintain operational efficiency according to workplace operational standards and manufacturer specifications. The module focuses on: * Solar PV system monitoring, * operational performance analysis, * energy efficiency optimization, * monitoring and reporting systems, * fault detection and performance diagnostics, * system efficiency improvement procedures, * operational maintenance activities, * and workplace operational compliance documentation.

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PM-12-PS01: Prepare and Inspect Solar PV Monitoring and Analysis Systems

PM-12-PS02: Monitor Solar PV System Operational Performance

PM-12-PS03: Analyze Energy Production, Consumption and System Efficiency

PM-12-PS04: Perform Fault Detection and Performance Diagnostics

PM-12-PS05: Conduct Energy Efficiency Optimization Procedures

PM-12-PS06: Perform Operational Maintenance and System Performance Verification

PM-12-PS07: Complete Monitoring, Analysis and Operational Documentation

Module Summative

PM-13: Install and Maintain Off-Grid Solar PV Systems

Module Summary This practical module introduces learners to the installation, configuration, testing, commissioning, maintenance, and troubleshooting of off-grid Solar PV systems used within residential, commercial, agricultural, and remote environments. Learners will develop practical skills required to safely install and maintain off-grid Solar PV systems integrating PV modules, battery storage systems, charge controllers, inverters, backup systems, and monitoring equipment according to workplace operational standards, manufacturer specifications, and electrical compliance requirements. The module focuses on: * off-grid Solar PV system installation, * battery storage integration, * charge controller installation and configuration, * inverter and backup system installation, * AC and DC system integration, * electrical testing and commissioning, * maintenance and troubleshooting procedures, * and workplace operational compliance documentation.

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PM-13-PS01: Prepare and Inspect Off-Grid Solar PV System Installation Work Areas

PM-13-PS02: Install Off-Grid Solar PV Structural, AC and DC Components

PM-13-PS03: Install and Configure Battery Storage and Charge Controller Systems

PM-13-PS04: Install Inverters, Backup Systems and Monitoring Equipment

PM-13-PS05: Perform Off-Grid System Electrical Testing, Configuration and Commissioning

PM-13-PS06: Conduct Maintenance and Troubleshooting on Off-Grid Solar PV Systems

PM-13-PS07: Complete Inspection, Compliance and Operational Documentation

Module Summative

PM-14: Perform Solar PV System Design, Load Assessment and System Sizing

Module Summary This practical module introduces learners to the assessment, calculation, design, sizing, configuration, and verification of Solar PV systems used within residential, commercial, agricultural, and industrial environments. Learners will develop practical skills required to assess electrical loads, calculate energy requirements, size Solar PV systems, select system components, prepare installation layouts, and verify design compliance according to workplace operational standards and manufacturer specifications. The module focuses on: * load assessment procedures, * energy demand calculations, * Solar PV system sizing, * inverter and battery sizing, * cable and protection sizing, * component selection, * installation layout preparation, * and workplace operational compliance documentation.

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PM-14-PS01: Conduct Site Inspection and Electrical Load Assessment

PM-14-PS02: Calculate Energy Demand and System Performance Requirements

PM-14-PS03: Size Solar PV Modules, Inverters and Battery Storage Systems

PM-14-PS04: Select Cables, Protection Devices and Balance of System Components

PM-14-PS05: Prepare Solar PV System Layouts and Installation Designs

PM-14-PS06: Verify Design Compliance, Operational Suitability and Safety Requirements

PM-14-PS07: Complete Design, Sizing and Operational Documentation

Module Summative

PM-15: Perform Solar PV System Project Planning, Costing and Resource Coordination

Module Summary This practical module introduces learners to the planning, costing, scheduling, coordination, and operational management of Solar PV installation projects within residential, commercial, agricultural, and industrial environments. Learners will develop practical skills required to prepare project plans, estimate system costs, coordinate resources, manage installation schedules, control operational risks, and maintain project compliance according to workplace operational standards and manufacturer specifications. The module focuses on: * Solar PV project planning, * project costing and budgeting, * material and resource estimation, * installation scheduling, * operational coordination, * risk and safety management, * project quality control, * and workplace operational compliance documentation.

0/5

PM-15-PS01: Conduct Solar PV Project Planning and Site Coordination Procedures

PM-15-PS02: Perform Solar PV Project Costing and Budget Estimation

PM-15-PS03: Coordinate Resources, Materials and Installation Logistics

PM-15-PS04: Perform Solar PV Project Risk, Safety and Quality Control Procedures

PM-15-PS05: Monitor Project Progress, Installation Performance and Operational Targets

WM-01: Perform Workplace Safety, Hazard Control and Emergency Procedures During Solar PV Installation Activities

Module Summary This work experience module provides learners with workplace exposure to applying safety procedures, hazard control measures, emergency response activities, and operational safety compliance during Solar PV installation and maintenance activities. Learners will progressively develop workplace competence in: * identifying workplace hazards, * applying safety procedures, * responding to workplace emergencies, * participating in first aid and fire response activities, * maintaining safe operational work environments, * and complying with workplace operational and safety standards. The module exposes learners to real workplace operational activities involving: * workplace hazard management, * electrical safety procedures, * working-at-height safety, * emergency response coordination, * incident reporting, * operational safety inspections, * and workplace compliance procedures. Learners will progress from workplace observation and assisted safety activities to independently applying workplace operational safety procedures under limited supervision.

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WM-01-WS01: Observe and Assist with Workplace Safety and Hazard Control Procedures

WM-01-WS02: Apply Workplace Safety and PPE Procedures During Solar PV Installation Activities

WM-01-WS03: Participate in Emergency Response, First Aid and Fire Safety Procedures

WM-01-WS04: Conduct Workplace Safety Inspections and Hazard Reporting Activities

WM-01-WS05: Independently Apply Workplace Safety, Compliance and Emergency Procedures

Workplace Assessment:

Occupational Certificate: Solar Photovoltaic Service Technician

Practical Activity 4: Perform PV Module Electrical Connections

Objectives

After completing this practical activity, learners will be able to:

Perform electrical connections for PV modules safely
Connect PV modules according to installation diagrams and manufacturer specifications
Apply electrical safety procedures during PV installations
Verify polarity and connection integrity
Conduct basic electrical continuity and connection checks

Scenario

You are part of a solar PV installation team responsible for completing the electrical connections between installed PV modules. The PV modules must be connected according to installation drawings, electrical standards, and manufacturer requirements before operational testing can begin.

You are required to perform electrical connections safely, verify correct polarity, and ensure that all connections comply with workplace operational and electrical safety standards.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Electrical Installation Equipment

Prepare and organize:

PV cables
MC4 connectors
Crimping tools
Cable cutters and strippers
Multimeters
Electrical testing equipment
PPE and electrical safety equipment

Verify that all tools and equipment are operational and safe to use.

Step 2: Identify PV Module Connection Points

Identify and verify:

Positive terminals
Negative terminals
String connection points
Junction boxes
Cable routing paths

Ensure all connection points match installation diagrams and operational requirements.

Step 3: Perform PV Module Cable Connections

Connect:

PV module cables
String connections
MC4 connectors
Junction box connections

Apply correct cable handling and connection procedures throughout the activity.

Step 4: Verify Electrical Polarity and Continuity

Use approved testing equipment to verify:

Correct polarity
Electrical continuity
Secure cable connections
Proper connector engagement
Safe electrical conditions

Record all electrical test results accurately.

Step 5: Apply Electrical Safety Procedures

Demonstrate:

Safe handling of energized systems
Correct PPE usage
Electrical isolation awareness
Safe cable management
Prevention of short circuits

Apply workplace electrical safety standards consistently.

Step 6: Inspect Cable Routing and Connection Quality

Inspect and verify:

Cable routing security
Connector integrity
Protection against cable damage
Weather protection where applicable
Compliance with installation standards

Identify and correct connection irregularities where required.

Step 7: Complete Workplace Documentation

Complete:

Electrical connection checklist
Polarity verification report
Continuity testing report
Workplace electrical compliance documentation

Expected Output

Learners must produce:

A completed electrical connection checklist
A polarity verification report
A continuity testing report
A workplace electrical compliance report

Skills Practiced

PV electrical connections
Cable routing
Polarity verification
Continuity testing
Electrical safety procedures
Connector installation
Installation quality verification
Workplace operational documentation

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