Introduction
The Africa Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Cooling and Cold Chain (ACES) in collaboration with GoShop Academy invites applications for the upcoming Go Solar Energy Training. This intensive four-day program aims to equip participants with practical skills and knowledge in solar energy systems, including installation, maintenance, and optimization.
4 Day Workshop
In-Person
[email protected]
Jean de Dieu Iyakaremye
Programme Dates
Course Fees
Attendance is currently FREE for all course dates.21st July 2025
ACES Rubirizi Campus, Kigali, Rwanda
Course Description
Solar energy plays a crucial role in powering sustainable and off-grid solutions for various applications, including agriculture, cold-chain management, and rural electrification. This training will provide participants with hands-on experience and theoretical knowledge necessary to design, install, and maintain solar energy systems effectively.
Intended Learning Outcomes:
By the end of this training course, participants will understand the principles of solar energy, system components, and how to assess energy needs to design appropriate solar solutions. They will gain practical skills in installing, configuring, and maintaining solar systems and an introduction to energy storage options such as batteries, thermal, and mechanical systems. The course combines theory and hands-on practice, ensuring participants can implement reliable, efficient solar energy systems and demonstrate competence through certification.
Assessment / Certificate
Participants will complete a test which will assess both theoretical knowledge and practical competence. Participants who pass the assessment will receive a competency-based certificate, confirming their ability to design, install, and maintain solar energy systems.
Who Should Apply?
We encourage applications from individuals with a keen interest in renewable energy, specifically in solar technology.
- Engineers, technicians, and installers
- Entrepreneurs and business owners in the renewable energy sector
- Agricultural professionals with prior knowledge in solar energy technology and looking to integrate solar energy into their operations.
- Policymakers and energy sector stakeholders
- Students and researchers in the field of solar energy.
A blended learning approach will be used, combining face-to-face instruction with digital tools and resources to enhance the learning experience.
Syllabus Outline
The training is structured into six core modules over four days:
Day 1:
- Module 1: Introduction to Solar Systems
- Understanding how solar energy works
- Exploring the components of a solar kit
- Different types of solar systems (off-grid, hybrid, on-grid)
- Introduction to solar energy storage systems and their applications in cold chain systems
- Module 2: Solar Kit Sizing
- Estimating energy needs
- Sizing solar panels, batteries, charge controllers, and inverters
- Factors affecting system performance and optimization
Day 2:
- Module 3: Installation and Wiring
- Mounting solar panels and setting optimal orientation
- Wiring charge controllers, inverters, and batteries
- Electrical safety and system protection
- Module 4: Configuration and Commissioning
- Setting up charge controllers and inverters
- Grid synchronization (if applicable)
- System testing and troubleshooting
Day 3:
- Module 5: Monitoring and Performance Optimization
- Using monitoring tools and connected platforms
- Cleaning and maintaining solar panels
- Improving energy efficiency and storage
- Module 6: Maintenance and Troubleshooting
- Preventive and corrective maintenance
- Identifying and resolving common system issues
- Safety measures during interventions
Day 4:
- Evaluation and Certification
- Theoretical and practical assessments
- Issuance of a training certificate upon successful completion
How To Apply
Applicants must submit a single PDF document containing the following:
- A cover letter addressed to the Academic Head, ACES, stating your motivation for attending the training
- A Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Short responses (maximum 150 words each) to the following questions:
- What experience do you have with refrigeration systems or maintenance?
- What specific troubleshooting challenges do you hope to better understand through this course?
- Do you have any dietary requirements or mobility restrictions that you want us to be aware of? (This will be treated confidentially to support your attendance.)
Interested and qualified candidates should submit their applications online by the designated deadline to ACES through [email protected], with the subject line: "Go solar energy training Course Application – [Your Name]".
Join us in advancing sustainable cooling solutions and enhancing your solar energy expertise!