This introductory course provides a solid foundation in two of today’s most important renewable energy technologies: photovoltaic (PV) systems and solar thermal energy. Designed for beginners and career changers, the course delivers essential knowledge in an easy-to-understand, practice-oriented format.

Participants learn how solar energy is harvested, converted, and applied across residential, commercial, and industrial settings. From understanding the photovoltaic effect to exploring how solar thermal collectors provide heat and hot water, this course offers a complete overview of modern solar technologies.

Technical concepts are explained simply, with real-world examples that prepare learners to progress toward advanced system design, installation, or professional certification.

Enroll now. Learn today, act tomorrow, and shape the energy future for generations

This Basic Course in Photovoltaics & Solar Thermal Energy is designed for beginners. No prior knowledge of solar energy or electrical engineering is required.

Ideal for:

• Students or professionals starting in renewable energy

• Technicians, installers, or facility managers seeking foundational knowledge

• Anyone interested in understanding and applying solar technologies

All you need is curiosity and a desire to learn!

• Upon successful completion of the Basic Course in Photovoltaics & Solar Thermal Energy, participants will receive a certificate of completion that validates their foundational knowledge in solar energy technologies.

  This certificate can be used to:

  • Demonstrate competency in PV and solar thermal basics

  • Strengthen your resume or professional portfolio

  • Prepare for advanced training, professional development, or technical roles in renewable energy

  Recognized by industry professionals and suitable for beginners aiming to enter the solar energy sector.

By the end of the Basic Course in Photovoltaics & Solar Thermal Energy, you will gain practical knowledge and skills in both solar electricity and solar thermal systems, including:

Photovoltaic (PV) Systems

• Understand PV markets, applications, and the principles of photovoltaic power generation

• Learn about peak-power, one of the main characteristics of PV panels

• Explore the importance of panel positioning and the effects of shadows on performance

• Become familiar with major components of a PV installation: solar panels, batteries, charge controllers, and inverters

• Understand the architecture of off-grid PV systems and how electrical devices are connected

• Assess a building’s energy needs, calculate energy consumption, and determine system sizing

  • Size PV installations in terms of number of panels (series & parallel configuration)

  • Size batteries for the required capacity and autonomy

• Learn to choose the best solution for a client and understand the steps to respond to client demands

Solar Thermal Systems

• Learn the types of solar thermal systems, their structure, and installation methods

• Understand the economic efficiency and advantages of solar thermal systems

• Explore solar cooling technology for buildings and industry, including principles, heat sources, and examples

• Gain a general approach to planning and sizing solar water heating and pumping systems

The course is designed to address the existing lack of technology knowledge and shortage of professional specialists and start-ups in the field of solar energy use and is aimed at. Career changer, startup and young entrepreneurs, all occupational and age groups.

Ideal for anyone looking to build a strong foundation in photovoltaics and solar thermal energy, including:

• Beginners who want to enter the renewable energy sector

• Students in engineering, environmental science, or sustainability programs

• Technicians, installers, and facility managers seeking practical solar knowledge

• Architects and building professionals interested in integrating solar solutions

• Entrepreneurs or business owners exploring solar markets and energy solutions

• Anyone passionate about sustainable energy and ready to take action

No prior experience is required—just curiosity and a desire to learn!

We are pleased to announce that we accept multiple payment methods for our courses, with payment due immediately upon invoice receipt.

Launch Promotions – Limited Time Only!

• Flexible monthly payments for registrations of more than 3 modules

• 5% Early Bird Discount for bookings up to one month before the course start date*

• 10% Partner Discount for members of our partner organization (DEN e.V.)*

• 20% Student Discount*

• 20% Discount for MT-GE ENTREPRENEURSHIP ACADEMY / MT-GE clients*

• 20% Discount for members of “Nachhaltigkeit und Wissenstransfer e.V.”*

*Proof of eligibility (student status, membership) must be provided at registration.
Discounts cannot be combined, except with the 5% early bird discount.

Financial Support

Lack of funds should not prevent anyone with sufficient qualifications and interest from participating in this course. Apply directly through “Sustainability and Knowledge Transfer e.V.” at info@sustknowltr.de and become a member.