Clean Energy Systems Capstone
CEP 290 is the culminating course in the Clean Energy Systems program, where students synthesize their understanding of renewable energy principles, system design, and practical application. This course challenges students to design a complete off-grid or grid-tied energy solution incorporating solar photovoltaic arrays, battery energy storage systems, and electric vehicle charging capabilities. Emphasizing industry best practices and safety protocols, the curriculum covers detailed system sizing, component selection, interconnection requirements, permitting considerations, and economic analysis. Through a blend of theoretical instruction, hands-on laboratory exercises, and a final capstone service project, students will gain invaluable experience in the planning, implementation, testing, and commissioning of integrated clean energy solutions, preparing them for technician roles in the rapidly evolving clean energy sector.
InstructorJacob CalhounCourse outline
Lectures, virtual labs, and graded assignments — completed in your browser.
Syllabus
["Week 1: Lesson 1: Project Management and Scope Definition for Clean Energy Systems","Week 2: Lesson 2: Advanced Solar Photovoltaic System Design and Sizing","Week 3: Lesson 3: Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) Architectures and Selection","Week 4: Hands-on Lab: Solar PV and BESS Component Integration and Wiring","Week 5: Lesson 5: Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure Standards and Types","Week 6: Lesson 6: Integrated System Control and Energy Management Strategies","Week 7: Lesson 7: Grid Interconnection, Permitting, and Regulatory Compliance","Week 8: Hands-on Lab: EV Charger Installation and Commissioning","Week 9: Lesson 9: System Performance Monitoring, Diagnostics, and Troubleshooting","Week 10: Lesson 10: Economic Analysis and Financial Modeling for Clean Energy Projects","Week 11: Hands-on Lab: System Testing, Performance Verification, and Safety Audits","Week 12: Lesson 12: Documentation, Reporting, and Client Handoff Procedures","Week 13: Lesson 13: Emerging Technologies and Future Trends in Clean Energy","Week 14: Capstone Service Project: Design and Commission a Solar-Storage-EV Charging System"]