Biowatt Institute Solar PV System Maintenance and Troubleshooting course is designed to equip technicians and engineers with the skills to ensure the long-term performance and safety of solar installations. The curriculum typically blends theoretical knowledge with hands-on diagnostic training to address common failure modes and optimize energy output
By the end of the program, participants are typically expected to:
Diagnose Common Faults: Identify and resolve systemic issues such as string mismatches, shading losses, module degradation, and loose electrical terminations.
Master Diagnostic Tools: Gain proficiency in using specialized equipment, including I-V curve tracers, thermal cameras, insulation resistance testers, and multimeters.
Implement Maintenance Plans: Develop and execute both preventive (scheduled cleaning and inspection) and corrective (repair and replacement) maintenance schedules.
Analyze Performance Data: Use monitoring software and IoT tools to track energy yield, calculate Performance Ratio (PR), and identify generation anomalies.
Execute Safety Protocols: Adhere to high-risk safety standards, including Lockout/Tagout (LOTO), arc-flash safety, and secure procedures for working at heights.
Interpret Inverter Alarms: Analyze error codes and diagnostic data from inverters to troubleshoot DC/AC side failures and grid-related faults.
Manage Documentation: Maintain accurate logs of inspections, maintenance actions, and warranty claims to ensure compliance with service agreements.
Intensive Professional Workshops (4–6 Days): Most professional-level courses focused specifically on maintenance and troubleshooting last approximately 5 days. These are often intensive programs designed for existing engineers or technicians to gain specialized diagnostic skills.
A Solar PV Maintenance and Troubleshooting course is ideal for both technical professionals looking to specialize and newcomers aiming to enter the renewable energy sector.
Electrical Engineers and Technicians who need to transition their skills to solar-specific DC/AC systems.
Solar PV Installers looking to expand their services into long-term Operations & Maintenance (O&M).
Maintenance & MEP Engineers responsible for the upkeep of commercial or industrial buildings with solar installation.
Solar PV Basics: Solar radiation principles, photovoltaic effect, and the impact of environmental factors like shading and temperature.
Electrical Fundamentals: AC/DC theory, Ohm’s Law, series/parallel circuits, and grounding/earthing systems.
Component Deep Dive: Detailed study of modules (crystalline vs. thin-film), inverters (string, micro, hybrid), charge controllers, and battery storage technologies.
Common Failure Modes: Identifying causes of reduced energy yield, equipment degradation, and wiring faults.
Diagnostic Tool Proficiency: Hands-on training with digital multimeters, clamp meters, insulation resistance testers (Megger), and I-V curve tracers.
Thermal Imaging: Using infrared cameras to detect "hot spots" on panels and loose electrical connections.
Inverter Fault Analysis: Interpreting error codes and monitoring data to distinguish between DC-side (array) and AC-side (grid) issues.
Maintenance Strategies: Developing schedules for Preventive Maintenance (scheduled cleaning, visual inspections) and Corrective Maintenance (repairs/replacements).
Performance Monitoring: Using SCADA or monitoring software (e.g., PVsyst) to analyze energy yield and Performance Ratio (PR).
Safety & Compliance: Adhering to safety standards like OSHA or local regulations (e.g., BPC, including Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) and arc-flash protection.
Documentation: Creating maintenance logs, site reports, and managing warranty claims with manufacturers.
Field Work: Conducting actual system inspections, measuring open-circuit voltage and short-circuit current and practicing panel cleaning techniques.
Final Examination: A written and/or practical test to qualify for certification
After successfully completing this training course, participants will be awarded Biowatt Institution Certificate of Completion accredited by Botswana Qualification Authority — a respected validation of their dedication to continuous learning and professional excellence. This certificate signifies that participants have gained the essential knowledge and skills required to make a measurable impact in their field.
Upon successful completion of the training course, you will receive The Energy Training Centre Certificate of Completion with corresponding learning hours.
There are two convenient options to register for a training course:
Online Registration Form – Register for your desired training course by completing the online registration form available on our website. Simple click on the registration button or select your preferred dates and provide the requested information.
Email Registration – You can email us your intention to register at info@biowattinstitution.africa. Our team will guide you through the registration process and provide assistance you may need.