Interdisciplinary Training in Solar Energy

The Solar Energy Engineering & Commercialization certification program offers interdisciplinary training in solar energy to professionals looking to pursue or advance careers in solar energy. The solar industry is poised for unprecedented growth and needs leaders who understand both the most current technical and business topics in the field, in order to transform the solar industry. The certification is designed to help participants meet employers’ demands for sophisticated professionals that can address science, policy and high-level business issues.

ASU’s innovative Solar Energy Engineering & Commercialization certification program provides participants with an understanding of the multitude of technologies in the field, the applications of solar energy, as well as the production of solar energy, the supply chain and consumption. Further, recognizing that technology is not the only driving force behind the success of the solar industry, several days will be spent discussing government policies, business opportunities, economics, and the social and environmental aspects of solar energy. It is the combination of both technical and non-technical curriculum that makes this program a unique learning opportunity for professionals currently involved in, or desiring to become involved in the solar industry.

Participants will choose one of two tracks—a technical track for those with a science or engineering background, or a non-technical track. Both tracks include common core modules: Introduction to Solar Energy, Solar Energy & Sustainability, Solar Energy Availability, Power Distribution & Distribution, Understanding Solar Energy Policy, Solar Energy Economics, Social/Environmental Aspects, and Future Technologies. Both tracks cover Solar Photovoltaic Systems, Solar Heating & Cooling, and Concentrating Solar Power, but at different levels of technical rigor. All participants will engage in hands-on experience through applied projects to immerse them in details of actual solar energy systems, culminating in oral and written presentations.

Through the discussion of the multitude of factors affecting the industry, participants completing the program walk away with a strategic advantage to understand and engage with the solar industry. Because the course begins and ends with common core sessions, participants have the opportunity to network with colleagues involved and interested in various specialties within the industry.