This course will delve into solar energy, unpacking the basic concepts of electricity and energy produced with solar irradiations, the technological options currently available and the key elements to consider when planning and setting up a solar energy installation. This is the first course in the SESA capacity building programme, which aims to close the knowledge gap around renewable and smart energy solutions. The course aims to provide a simple yet technical basis for those interested in learning more about smart and green energy solutions. Experts from the SESA project have created this course giving particular attention to concrete cases and examples relevant to the African context to help understand how different energy alternatives work. The course is made up of 8 lessons, each one comprising one short video, a list of further readings and a quiz to test the understanding of the content. Following a passing grade from each quiz, participants will receive a certificate after completing the course. Each lesson will focus on a specific topic covering fundamental elements that make solar energy successful, including:
- Basics of electricity and solar energy
- Differences between different equipment
- Suitable conditions and key factors for planning a solar installation.
- How to ensure the best performance of the equipment installed
- Possible applications for solar energy
The SESA capacity building programme consists of six courses, which dive into six specific technologies investigated by the SESA project to help participants understand what alternative energy sources exist and how they work. In addition to solar energy, these technologies include clean cooking, waste to energy, electric mobility, second-life EV batteries, smart microgrid & system integration and rural internet access.
