Extended Educational Services > MI Energy Demo Center > Registration Form Revised 11/23/09

Michigan Energy Demonstration Center Classes
at Northwestern Michigan College

Education for energy efficiency and renewable energy are the focus of the center which is located at the M-TEC building on the Aero Park Campus. Highlights include a grid-tied solar array, geo-thermal installation, solar thermal system, portable solar lab, small wind turbine, and a building sciences lab. A larger wind turbine is located at the University Center. Courses and workshops are designed for consumer education and workforce development throughout the year.

Residential Energy Efficiency
for Existing Buildings
Builders, electrical and HVAC technicians, real estate professionals, home inspectors, contractors, loan officers and potential energy auditors will gain a solid understanding of residential energy use. From structural design characteristics to airflow and heating, this comprehensive course includes principles of energy, heating and cooling, understanding the building envelope, lighting and appliances, air leakage, water heating, insulation, health and safety, windows, and doors. This course is essential for anyone who will be advising clients on household energy use.

4 weeks, Tues. & Thurs., 1-5:15 p.m.
March 16, 18, 23, 25; April 6, 8, 13, 15
Plus Sat., April 10, 8 a.m.-5:15 p.m.
Aero Park Campus
Parsons/Stulen (MTEC) Rm. 159
Instructor: Gary Cook
Cost: $575                Code: 10246

Residential Wind Power Systems—
One-week Intensive Entry-Level Training
Build technical understanding and entry level skills to enter the Residential Wind Power Industry. In NMC’s state-of-the-art Energy Demonstration Center, analyze the potential for on-site wind power generation and gain a technical foundation for working with stand-alone and grid-tied code-compliant residential systems. The course provides hands-on experience assembling systems, erecting towers, and operating a residential wind system. The content follows NABCEP’s job task analysis objectives for entry-level workers.

Course topics include:

  • Wind power and site assessment
  • Electrical review and safety
  • Hands-on workshop working with towers, generators,
    and balance of system components
  • Installation site and system safety
  • Components and applications
  • Mechanical and electrical design
  • Performance analysis and troubleshooting
  • Residential wind products, markets and applications
  • Conservation and efficiency practices

Designed for builders, electricians, architects, code officials, construction- and energy-related business owners, teachers, attorneys, and those interested in learning about renewable energy. Class breaks for lunch on your own.

Mon.-Fri., Feb. 8-12, 8 a.m.-5:15 p.m.
Aero Park Campus
Parsons/Stulen (MTEC) Rm. 101
Instructors: Steve Smiley & Randy Smith
Cost: $775, includes text and materials
Code: 10247

  

Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Electric
Systems One-week Intensive
Learn the fundamentals of PV system design and installation in this one-week workshop designed for those interested in the expanding PV industry. In NMC’s state-of-the-art Energy Demonstration Center, you will gain a technical foundation in stand-alone and grid-tied code-compliant solar electric systems. The content follows NABCEP’s learning objectives for the entry level exam.

Topics include:

  • Electricity and safety basics
  • PV module fundamentals
  • Hands-on solar workshop
  • System components and sizing
  • Mechanical and electrical design
  • Performance analysis and troubleshooting
  • PV markets and applications
  • Conservation and efficiency practices
  • Course review and test prep

The optional NABCEP Certificate of Knowledge Exam will be offered on Saturday following the workshop. Designed for builders, electricians, architects, code officials, construction- and energy-related business owners, teachers, attorneys, and elected officials. Class breaks daily for lunch on your own.

One-week Intensive:
Mon.-Fri., March 15-19
8 a.m.-5:15 p.m., Aero Park Campus
Parsons/Stulen (MTEC) Rm. 226
Instructors: Tim Babcock & Dan Goodchild
Cost: $775 (includes text and materials)
Code: 10248

Optional NABCEP Test: Sat., March 20
8:30-11 a.m., Aero Park Campus,
Parsons/Stulen (MTEC) Rm. 220
Test Fee: $105                  Code: 10249

Solar Photovoltaic Level II—
Hands-on Systems Training
Build upon your entry-level knowledge of Solar PV with this hands-on experience. Learn basic installation techniques as you gain understanding of system configuration, components, battery connections, safety, diagramming, and construction of a small PV system. Exercises include a math review, site survey review, estimating and purchasing, wiring configurations, and electrical code review. Participants need NABCEP Entry-level Certificate of Knowledge or equivalent experience. Level II is required training before moving to Level III—Advanced Skills.

5 days, Mon.-Fri., Feb. 22-26, 8 a.m.-5:15 p.m.
Aero Park Campus
Parsons/Stulen Rm. 226
Instructor: Mike Schmerl
Cost: $775               Code: 10250

Connecting to the Grid:
Net-Metering Facts and Fiction
One of the most confusing and misunderstood aspects of renewable electricity generation is the process of connecting a system to the electrical grid. Look at the policies, procedures, technology, and challenges required for successful connection of small (less than 10 KW) solar and wind systems. Using NMC’s new solar lab, we will illustrate system components and configurations that are commonly required. Gain understanding of Michigan interconnection policy and what it means for owners and providers. Learn about common issues that hold up net-metering applications. Examine the process and what one can realistically expect from a net-metering agreement.

Wed., March 10, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Aero Park Campus
Parsons/Stulen (MTEC) Rm. 101
Instructor: Bill Queen
Cost: $39                Code: 10251

 

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