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Cerro Coso Campus

All You Need to Know About Solar Topic of Cerro Coso Classes This Fall

August 18, 2010

Are you considering Solar to lower your utility bills? Cerro Coso Community College is offering courses this fall that will provide you with all the information you need to make the most of your home energy efficiency decisions. Topics of discussion will include: what to look for in experienced solar professionals, the best materials for your home, what to look for in installation, what to expect in solar savings, and taking advantage of limited time rebates and incentives.

Professor Larry Board will instruct RET C104, Introduction to Solar Power Technology, on Fridays from 1:30 to 3:35 p.m. This course gives students an overview of the solar energy and power industry and is also and introduction to the basic concepts and terminology of how solar energy is captured and transformed into electrical power. Topics will include the history of solar and photovoltaic technology and related safety considerations.

RET C105 – Solar Energy I-Photovoltaic Technology will meet on Mondays and Wednesdays with Professor Board from 6:45 – 8:50 p.m. This course is designed to prepare students with basic knowledge of photovoltaic systems, suitable for a supervised, entry level position with a dealer/installer or other PV industry company.

With help from other college classes in welding and hand tools students have constructed the frame for a model solar home on wheels. Renewal Energy Technology students will complete the construction by installing a fully operational solar system, and state of the art LED lighting and mechanical systems. "Utilizing a variety of product this house will be 100% green technology and will help us demonstrate our commitment to a healthier environment," stated Professor Board.

In October Cerro Coso a member of CREATE will provide "GO GREEN" workshops on Renewable Energy Technologies to local area schools. CREATE is the California Regional Consortium for Engineering Advances in Technological Education (CREATE) project and is a joint effort between seven community colleges and over 50 large high tech engineering/technology employers. Its purpose is to develop a regional approach to workforce preparation and training, and to meet emerging needs for innovative, flexible strategies to educate the workforce in new, technological advances in a wide range of high demand engineering technology fields.

Cerro Coso Community College is a leader in the country in Renewal Energy Technology. "The one thing we have going for us is plenty of sun, and harnessing the sun's energy is an excellent way to go green while cutting basic energy costs," concluded Professor Board.

Students can register the fast and convenient way from the comfort of your home or office via the Cerro Coso website located at www.cerrocoso.edu. Additional information regarding Fall 2010 classes which begin August 23 and registration may be obtained by calling Cerro Coso Community College at 384-6100.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Natalie Dorrell, Public Information (760) 384-6260