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Course Description

Explore different facets of solar power technology and learn about the planning, design and development of solar energy projects. Gain an understanding of mechanical and technical aspects of solar power generation, include the emerging technologies in the area, and discuss the economical requirements of solar energy projects.

This course may be eligible for the Canada-Alberta Productivity Grant (CAPG), with final approval determined by CAPG administrators. Employers and applicants can review the CAPG guidelines and full details on the University of Albertaโ€™s Continuing Education website.

Who Should Take This Course?

Aimed at industry executives, environmental professionals, project managers, power producers and regulators, those working in government agencies, utility companies, and energy agencies, as well as developers and investors interested in expanding their career or business with renewable energy.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this course, students should be able to:

  • ๐Ÿ—ธ Describe how solar energy is captured, converted, and best utilized through different solar power systems.
  • ๐Ÿ—ธ Understand the basic economic principles for installing, maintaining, and decommissioning a solar project.
  • ๐Ÿ—ธ Describe the efficiency rise, price reduction, and growth trajectory that solar projects have experienced worldwide. Explain the basic mechanics of different solar power systems (CSP, PV power stations, floating solar farms, rooftop installations, etc.).
  • ๐Ÿ—ธ Walk through the steps required to build a solar project (i.e. how to assess solar potential, choose the right system, acquire land, acquire permits, and assess economic feasibility).
  • ๐Ÿ—ธ Describe how solar energy is captured, converted, and best utilized through different solar power systems. Understand the basic economic principles for installing, maintaining, and decommissioning a solar project.
  • ๐Ÿ—ธ Describe the efficiency rise, price reduction, and growth trajectory that solar projects have experienced worldwide.
  • ๐Ÿ—ธ Explain the basic mechanics of different solar power systems (CSP, PV power stations, floating solar farms, rooftop installations, etc.).
  • ๐Ÿ—ธ Walk through the steps required to build a solar project (i.e. how to assess solar potential, choose the right system, acquire land, acquire permits, and assess economic feasibility).

Notes
  • ๐Ÿ—ธThis course delivery format is fully online and bichronous. Students engage in both asynchronous learning and scheduled synchronous classes. The asynchronous dates allow for completion of coursework and assessments in between and after the synchronous classes. Find more information on delivery formats here.
  • ๐Ÿ—ธLearn through lectures and lively discussions as you broaden your network and explore the connections of this course with your own professional practice.
  • ๐Ÿ—ธThis course is credentialed by the Foundational Technologies Institute (FTI), an independent organization, to meet standards of quality, practicality, and alignment to business needs.
  • ๐Ÿ—ธAssessment activities include readings, quizzes, and assignments. Homework, readings, and quizzes should take an average of 4-6 hours each week.
  • ๐Ÿ—ธIf you wish to obtain the Solar Energy Development and Design Certificate, you are required to take the three Renewable Energy Essentials courses in addition to this course.  It is highly recommended that you take the Essentials courses prior to completing this course.
  • ๐Ÿ—ธThis course applies to the Renewable Energy Technologies Certificate and the Solar Energy Development and Design Certificate.

Recommendations

Students intending to complete a program are encouraged to apply as soon as possible to lock in their course requirements.

Applies Towards the Following Programs
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Find a Section
Section Title
Solar Energy Development
Language of Delivery
English
Type
Online - Asynchronous
Dates
Jan 15, 2026 to Jan 30, 2026
Type
Online - Synchronous
Days
F, Sa, Su
Time
8:30AM to 10:00AM
Dates
Jan 16, 2026 to Jan 25, 2026
Schedule and Location
Contact Hours
42.0
Delivery Options
Online - Bichronous  
Course Fee(s)
Tuition non-credit $1,080.00
Section Notes
This course includes both synchronous and asynchronous parts. Students will require a computer with both audio input and output (such as a microphone-equipped headset).
Required fields are indicated by .