Solar energy training

Aston Renewable Energy continued piloting a solar energy training pathway program for technical colleges students in different governorates. Aston provided two immersive one day solar energy training sessions for technical education students at Sidon High School and Middle-East Technical College. Similar to the high schools in Tripoli, where Aston solar training was completed in May 2023, the high schools in Sidon also have well developed technical trades programs.

Students at both high schools were very engaged in learning about the basics of solar energy and principles of off-grid and grid-direct residential and commercial photovoltaic (PV) design and installation. During the training students participated in hands-on labs to calculate load power and energy outputs, students were introduced to the components of a PV system, and participated in wiring and testing outputs of PV modules. Students were also given an overview of solar energy industry jobs with an emphasis on solar installers and the outlook for skills needed in the solar job market.

A tour of the school’s roof-mounted PV systems and calculations of the system’s energy output were made by students. PV systems at both schools were assigned to be monitored by the school’s Green Clubs.

After participating in the solar energy immersive training students and teachers at both schools conveyed their interests in continuing a solar energy training program as part of their technical education programs. Technical trades programs within high schools are a great fit to integrate solar energy / renewable energy job skills training. Aston would like to support schools to include a solar and wind energy unit within their existing classes (construction, electrical, welding, or auto mechanics) or through a one or two semester long class dedicated to solar / renewable energy paired with hands-on training, industry recognized certification and internship and apprenticeship opportunities.