Solar Energy

Modern solar technologies can compete economically with fossil fuels, while posing fewer threats to the environment. In this course, you’ll explore the science of solar radiation and learn how solar power can be converted to electricity.

You’ll study active and passive solar-thermal energy systems, their environmental and economic benefits, and systemic costs.

You’ll examine the influence of environmental policy and economic factors on the feasibility of solar energy systems and learn how to evaluate applicable technologies in various load-displacement scenarios.

What You'll Learn

• Understand the basic characteristics of solar radiation and how it interacts with Earth.
• Understand and describe the scientific and engineering principles behind photovoltaics, solar thermal technologies (including solar thermal electricity generation), and passive solar building designs.
• Analyze the role of incentive programs and other government policies in increasing market penetration of solar energy systems.
• Evaluate applicable technologies in various load displacement scenarios.