PV SYSTEMS SERVICING NC III – TESDA COURSE MODULE

TESDA TRAINING REGULATIONS PV SYSTEMS SERVICING NC III COURSE

The TESDA Course in PV SYSTEMS SERVICING NC III consists of competencies that a person must achieve to be to perform PV system maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of small solar home systems up to 1kWp.

This Qualification is packaged from the competency map of the Construction Sector.

A student who has achieved this TESDA Course in PV SYSTEMS SERVICING NC III is competent to be:

• PV Systems Service Technician; or
• PV Systems Maintenance Technician; or
• PV Systems Repair Technician

TRAINEE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

The trainees who wish to enter the course should possess the following requirements:

• Have undergone training on PV Systems Installation National Certificate Level II
• Can communicate both oral and in written
• Must be physically and mentally fit to undergo training
• At least 18 yrs old

This list does not include specific institutional requirements such as educational attainment, appropriate work experience, and others that may be required of the trainees by the school or training center delivering the TVET program.

PV SYSTEMS SERVICING NC III COURSE – TRAINING AND REGULATION MODULE

Course Title: PV SYSTEMS SERVICING
Level: NC III
Nominal Training Duration :

(Basic Competency) 20 hours
(Common Competency) 72 hours
(Core Competency) 66 hours

TOTAL DURATION: 158  Hours

The course is designed to enhance the knowledge, skills and desirable attitudes of a PV systems service technician to perform PV system maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of small solar home systems up to 1kWp based on customer complaint in accordance with industry standards. Specifically, it covers core competencies such Perform PV System Diagnosis, Repair of PV System and Monitor PV System Operation.

Basic competencies such as: Lead workplace communication; Lead small teams; Develop and practice negotiation skills; Solve problems related to work activities; Use mathematical concepts and techniques and Use relevant technologies are included.

It also include common competencies such as; Prepare construction materials and tools; Perform mensuration and calculation; Maintain tools and equipment; Observe procedures, specifications and manuals of instructions and Interpret technical drawings and plans.

COMPETENCIES REQUIRED IN PV SYSTEMS SERVICING NC III

This units of competency comprising this qualification include Basic, Common and Core Competencies.

To obtain this TESDA Course in PV SYSTEMS SERVICING NC III, all units prescribed below for this qualification must be achieved.

These units of competency comprising this qualification include the following:

UNIT CODE	CORE COMPETENCIES (56 hours)
CON724329	Perform PV System Diagnosis
CON724330	Repair PV System
CON724331	Monitor PV System Operation
UNIT CODE	COMMON COMPETENCIES (72 hours)
CON931201	Prepare construction materials and tools
CON311201	Observe procedures, specifications and manuals of instruction
CON311202	Interpret technical drawings and plans
CON311203	Perform mensurations and calculations
CON311204	Maintain tools and equipment
UNIT CODE	BASIC COMPETENCIES (20 hours)
500311109	Lead Workplace Communication
500311110	Lead Small Teams
500311111	Develop and Practice Negotiation skills
500311112	Solve Problems Related to Work Activities
500311113	Use Mathematical Concepts and Techniques
500311114	Use Relevant Technologies

These guidelines are set to provide the Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) providers with information and other important requirements to consider when designing training programs for PV SYSTEMS SERVICING NC III.

CORE COMPETENCIES

UNIT OF COMPETENCY : PERFORM PV SYSTEM DIAGNOSIS
UNIT CODE : CON724329

This unit covers the skills, knowledge and attitude in diagnosis of perceived system trouble(s) based on customer complaint.

1. Prepare for troubleshooting activities
   • Sequence of troubleshooting activities outlined in accordance with the maintenance manual and customer complaint
   • Tools, measuring instruments, and materials are selected in accordance with job order requirements
   • Personal protective equipment is prepared in line with job order requirement
2. Verify customer’s complaint
   • Customer interviewed based on Troubleshooting Checklist
   • System components are checked using isolation technique based on maintenance procedures
   • Task is performed without causing damage to the components, tools, or equipment and injury to self and others.

UNIT OF COMPETENCY : REPAIR PV SYSTEMS
UNIT CODE : CON724330

This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitude in repairing small solar home systems up to 1kWp

1. Prepare for service/repair
   • Work instructions are read and interpreted to determine job requirements
   • Tools, measuring instruments, and materials are prepared in accordance with job order requirements and checked against damage
   • Appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) is used in line with the job order requirement
   • Work safety is observed according to industry regulations
2. Verify / validate diagnosis results
   • System components are verified against the previous diagnostic activity
   • All components are cleaned and checked based on manufacturer’s specs, any malfunctions and deviations are noted
   • Safe working practices are observed based on procedures
3. Repair/replace faulty PV component
   • Photovoltaic system components and accessories are repaired/replaced
   • Task is performed without causing damage to the components, tools, and/or injury to self and others
4. Test PV system
   • Tools and measuring instruments are used based on system parameters to be tested
   • PV system is checked for any more defects based on procedures
   • Rectification of any malfunctions/deficiencies is performed based on set procedures
   • PV system parameters are tested to comply within the nominal range
   • Safe working practices are observed throughout the task based on safety procedure
   • Repair and services are accomplished and recorded in the logbook or accomplishment report form
5. Debrief Customer
   • Causes of PV system faults and effects are explained according to company standard operating procedure
   • Preventive measures (do’s and don’ts) is recommended based on the diagnosis

UNIT OF COMPETENCY : MONITOR PV SYSTEM OPERATION
UNIT CODE : CON724331

This unit covers the skills, knowledge and attitude in monitoring PV systems.

1. Prepare for monitoring activities
   • Sequence of activities outlined in accordance with the monitoring manual
   • Monitoring forms are prepared in accordance with job order requirements
   • Personal protective equipment is selected in line with job order requirement
2. Check PV System Status
   • PV system parameter is checked based on monitoring procedures using appropriate tools, measuring instruments, and materials.
   • Monitoring form is accomplished as per company requirement
   • Task is performed without causing damage to the components, tools or electrical measuring instruments and injury to self and others

COMMON COMPETENCIES

UNIT OF COMPETENCY: PREPARE CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS AND TOOLS
UNIT CODE : CON931201

This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes on identifying, requesting and receiving construction (plumbing) materials and tools in various workplace settings.

1. Identify materials
   • Materials are listed as per job requirements
   • Quantity and description of materials conform with the job requirements
   • Tools and accessories are identified according to job requirements
2. Requisition materials
   • Materials and tools needed are requested according to the list prepared
   • Request is done as per company standard operating procedures (SOP)
   • Substitute materials and tools are provided without sacrificing cost and quality of work
3. Receive and inspect materials
   • Materials and tools issued are inspected as per quantity and specification
   • Tools, accessories and materials are checked for damages according to enterprise procedures
   • Materials and tools are set aside to appropriate location nearest to the workplace

UNIT OF COMPETENCY: OBSERVE PROCEDURES, SPECIFICATIONS AND MANUALS OF INSTRUCTIONS
UNIT CODE : CON311201

This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes on identifying, interpreting, applying services to specifications and manuals and storing manuals.

1. Identify and access specification/manuals
   • Appropriate manuals are identified and accessed as per job requirements
   • Version and date of manual are checked to ensure that correct specification and procedures are identified
2. Interpret manuals
   • Relevant sections, chapters of specifications/manuals are located in relation to the work to be conducted
   • Information and procedure in the manual are interpreted in accordance with industry practices
3. Apply information in manual
   • Manual is interpreted according to job requirements
   • Work steps are correctly identified in accordance with manufacturer’s specification
   • Manual data are applied according to the given task
   • All correct sequencing and adjustments are interpreted in accordance with information contained on the manual or specifications
4. Store manuals
   • Manual or specification is stored appropriately to prevent damage, ready access and updating of information when required in accordance with company requirements

UNIT OF COMPETENCY: INTERPRET TECHNICAL DRAWINGS AND PLANS
UNIT CODE : CON311202

This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes in analyzing and interpreting symbols, data and work plan based on the required performance standards.

1. Analyze signs, symbols and data
   • Technical plans are obtained according to job requirements
   • Signs, symbols and data are identified according to job specifications
   • Signs symbols and data are determined according to classification or as appropriate in drawing
2. Interpret technical drawings and plans
   • Necessary tools, materials and equipment are identified according to the plan
   • Supplies and materials are listed according to specifications
   • Components, assemblies or objects are recognized as required
   • Dimensions are identified as appropriate to the plan
   • Specification details are matched with existing/available resources and in line with job requirements
   • Work plan is drawn following the specifications
3. Apply freehand sketching
   • Where applicable, correct freehand sketching is produced in accordance with the job requirements

UNIT OF COMPETENCY: PERFORM MENSURATIONS AND CALCULATIONS
UNIT CODE : CON311203

This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes on identifying and measuring objects based on the required performance standards.

1. Select measuring instruments
   • Object or component to be measured is identified, classified and interpreted according to the appropriate regular geometric shape
   • Measuring tools are selected/identified as per object to be measured or job requirements
   • Correct specifications are obtained from relevant sources
   • Appropriate measuring instruments are selected according to job requirements
   • Alternative measuring tools are used without sacrificing cost and quality of work
2. Carry out measurements and calculations
   • Accurate measurements are obtained according to job requirements
   • Alternative measuring tools are used without sacrificing cost and quality of work
   • Calculation needed to complete work tasks are performed using the four basic process of addition (+), subtraction (-), multiplication (x) and division (/) including but not limited to: trigonometric functions, algebraic computations
   • Calculations involving fractions, percentages and mixed numbers are used to complete workplace tasks
   • Numerical computation is self-checked and corrected for accuracy
   • Instruments are read to the limit of accuracy of the tool
   • Systems of measurement identified and converted according to job requirements/ISO
   • Workpieces are measured according to job requirements

UNIT OF COMPETENCY: MAINTAIN TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT
UNIT CODE : CON311204

This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes on checking condition, performing preventive maintenance and storing of tools and equipment based on the required performance standards.

1. Check condition of tools and equipment
   • Materials, tools and equipment are identified according to classification and job requirements
   • Non-functional tools and equipment are segregated and labeled according to classification
   • Safety of tools and equipment are observed in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions
   • Condition of PPE are checked in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions
2. Perform basic preventive maintenance
   • Appropriate lubricants are identified according to types of equipment
   • Tools and equipment are lubricated according to preventive maintenance schedule or manufacturer’s specifications
   • Measuring instruments are checked and calibrated in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions
   • Tools are cleaned and lubricated according to standard procedures
   • Defective instruments, equipment and accessories are inspected and replaced according to manufacturer’s specifications
   • Tools are inspected, repaired and replaced after use
   • Work place is cleaned and kept in safe state in line with OHSA regulations
3. Store tools and equipment
   • Inventory of tools, instruments and equipment are conducted and recorded as per company practices
   • Tools and equipment are stored safely in appropriate locations in accordance with manufacturer’s specifications or company procedures

BASIC COMPETENCIES

The BASIC COMPETENCIES refer to non-technical skills (knowledge, skills and attitudes) that everybody will need in order to perform satisfactorily at work and in society and are considered portable and transferable irrespective of jobs and industrial settings.

UNIT OF COMPETENCY : LEAD WORKPLACE COMMUNICATION
UNIT CODE : 500311109

This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes required to lead in the dissemination and discussion of ideas, information and issues in the workplace.

1. Communicate information about workplace processes
   • Appropriate communication method is selected
   • Multiple operations involving several topics areas are communicated accordingly
   • Questions are used to gain extra information
   • Correct sources of information are identified
   • Information is selected and organized correctly
   • Verbal and written reporting is undertaken when required
   • Communication skills are maintained in all situations
2. Lead workplace discussions
   • Response to workplace issues are sought
   • Response to workplace issues are provided immediately
   • Constructive contributions are made to workplace discussions on such issues as production, quality and safety
   • Goals/objectives and action plan undertaken in the workplace are communicated
3. Identify and communicate issues arising in the workplace
   • Issues and problems are identified as they arise
   • Information regarding problems and issues are organized coherently to ensure clear and effective communication
   • Dialogue is initiated with appropriate personnel
   • Communication problems and issues are raised as they arise

UNIT OF COMPETENCY : LEAD SMALL TEAMS
UNIT CODE : 500311110

This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes to lead small teams including setting and maintaining team and individual performance standards.

1. Provide team leadership
   • Work requirements are identified and presented to team members
   • Reasons for instructions and requirements are communicated to team members
   • Team members’ queries and concerns are recognized, discussed and dealt with
2. Assign responsibilities
   • Duties, and responsibilities are allocated having regard to the skills, knowledge and aptitude required to properly undertake the assigned task and according to company policy
   • Duties are allocated having regard to individual preference, domestic and personal considerations, whenever possible
3. Set performance expectations for team members
   • Performance expectations are established based on client needs and according to assignment requirements
   • Performance expectations are based on individual team members duties and area of responsibility
   • Performance expectations are discussed and disseminated to individual team members
4. Supervised team performance
   • Monitoring of performance takes place against defined performance criteria and/or assignment instructions and corrective action taken if required
   • Team members are provided with feedback, positive support and advice on strategies to overcome any deficiencies
   • Performance issues which cannot be rectified or addressed within the team are referenced to appropriate personnel according to employer policy
   • Team members are kept informed of any changes in the priority allocated to assignments or tasks which might impact on client/customer needs and satisfaction
   • Team operations are monitored to ensure that employer/client needs and requirements are met
   • Follow-up communication is provided on all issues affecting the team
   • All relevant documentation is completed in accordance with company procedures

UNIT OF COMPETENCY : DEVELOP AND PRACTICE NEGOTIATION SKILLS
UNIT CODE : 500311111

This unit covers the skills, knowledge and attitudes required to collect information in order to negotiate to a desired outcome and participate in the negotiation.

1. Plan negotiations
   • Information on preparing for negotiation is identified and included in the plan
   • Information on creating non verbal environments for positive negotiating is identified and included in the plan
   • Information on active listening is identified and included in the plan
   • Information on different questioning techniques is identified and included in the plan
   • Information is checked to ensure it is correct and up-to- date
2. Participate in negotiations
   • Criteria for successful outcome are agreed upon by all parties
   • Desired outcome of all parties are considered
   • Appropriate language is used throughout the negotiation
   • A variety of questioning techniques are used
   • The issues and processes are documented and agreed upon by all parties
   • Possible solutions are discussed and their viability assessed
   • Areas for agreement are confirmed and recorded
   • Follow-up action is agreed upon by all parties

UNIT OF COMPETENCY : SOLVE PROBLEMS RELATED TO WORK ACTIVITIES
UNIT CODE : 500311112

This unit of covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes required to solve problems in the workplace including the application of problem solving techniques and to determine and resolve the root cause of problems.

1. Identify the problem
   • Variances are identified from normal operating parameters; and product quality
   • Extent, cause and nature are of the problem are defined through observation, investigation and analytical techniques
   • Problems are clearly stated and specified
2. Determine fundamental causes of the problem
   • Possible causes are identified based on experience and the use of problem solving tools / analytical techniques.
   • Possible cause statements are developed based on findings
   • Fundamental causes are identified per results of investigation conducted
3. Determine corrective action
   • All possible options are considered for resolution of the problem
   • Strengths and weaknesses of possible options are considered
   • Corrective actions are determined to resolve the problem and possible future causes
   • Action plans are developed identifying measurable objectives, resource needs and timelines in accordance with safety and operating procedures
4. Provide recommendation/s to manager
   • Report on recommendations are prepared
   • Recommendations are presented to appropriate personnel.
   • Recommendations are followed-up, if required

UNIT OF COMPETENCY : USE MATHEMATICAL CONCEPTS AND TECHNIQUES
UNIT CODE : 500311113

This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes required in the application of mathematical concepts and techniques.

1. Identify mathematical tools and techniques to solve problem
   • Problem areas are identified based on given condition
   • Mathematical techniques are selected based on the given problem
2. Apply mathematical procedure/solution
   • Mathematical techniques are applied based on the problem identified
   • Mathematical computations are performed to the level of accuracy required for the problem
   • Results of mathematical computation is determined and verified based on job requirements
3. Analyze results
   • Result of application is reviewed based on expected and required specifications and outcome
   • Appropriate action is applied in case of error

UNIT OF COMPETENCY : USE RELEVANT TECHNOLOGIES
UNIT CODE : 500311114

This unit of competency covers the knowledge, skills, and attitude required in selecting, sourcing and applying appropriate and affordable technologies in the workplace.

1. Study/select appropriate technology
   • Usage of different technologies is determined based on job requirements
   • Appropriate technology is selected as per work specification
2. Apply relevant technology
   • Relevant technology is effectively used in carrying out function
   • Applicable software and hardware are used as per task requirement
   • Management concepts are observed and practiced as per established industry practices
3. Maintain/enhance relevant technology
   • Maintenance of technology is applied in accordance with the industry standard operating procedure, manufacturer’s operating guidelines and occupational health and safety procedure to ensure its operative ability
   • Updating of technology is maintained through continuing education or training in accordance with job requirement
   • Technology failure/ defect is immediately reported to the concern/responsible person or section for appropriate action

DEFINITION OF TERMS

• Photovoltaic (PV) – a technology that uses a solar module in order to convert light or energy from the sun to electricity
• PV Module – a device composed of solar cells that convert light or energy from the sun to electricity.
• PV Panel – a group of PV modules connected in series and/or parallel in a single support structure
• PV Array – a group of PV modules connected in series and/or parallel in different support structures
• Load – are devices such as lighting fixtures, appliances, or the likes that requires electricity
• Battery – a device that stores electricity typically rated in Ampere-hours. For PV systems in the Philippines, car batteries are commonly used.
• Controller – an electronic device used to cut off charging to the battery when the battery is full and to disconnect the battery from the load when the battery charge is getting low
• Direct current – unidirectional flow of electricity, usually type of power being stored in batteries
• Alternating current – current that periodically changes its magnitude and direction, commonly derived directly from the grid-connected power sources
• Functional Test – test procedures being done on the different PV components based on their rated operating ranges such as controller set-points, battery voltage, Voc and Isc of PV modules.
• Controller Set-points – the maximum and minimum settings that corresponds to the predetermined depth of discharge and maximum charge of a battery
• Maximum depth of discharge – is the state of charge of a battery that will provide maximum life cycles before it needs replacement
• Commissioning – the process in which a machine or system is put in operation
• Installation data sheet – record or document of information containing the final installation lay-out and system  specification
• Power – the delivery of energy typically measured in Watts
• Energy – actual work done by the electricity, typically measured in Watt-hours
• Parallel connection – connecting the positives together and separately to connect the negatives together
• Series connection – connecting the positives of one source to the negative of another
• Certification – is the process of verifying and validating the competencies of a person through assessment
• Certificate of Competency (COC) – is a certification issued to individuals who pass the assessment for a single unit or cluster of units of competency
• Common Competencies – are the skills and knowledge needed by all people working in a particular industry
• Competency – is the possession and application of knowledge, skills and attitudes to perform work activities to the standard expected in the workplace
• Competency Assessment – is the process of collecting evidence and making judgments on whether competency has been achieved
• Competency Standard (CS) – is the industry-determined specification of competencies required for effective work performance
• Context of Assessment – refers to the place where assessment is to be conducted or carried out
• Core Competencies – are the specific skills and knowledge needed in a particular area of work – industry sector/occupation/job role
• Critical aspects of competency – refers to the evidence that is essential for successful performance of the unit of competency
• Elective Competencies – are the additional skills and knowledge required by the individual or enterprise for work
• Elements – are the building blocks of a unit of competency. They describe in outcome terms the functions that a person performs in the workplace.
• Evidence Guide – is a component of the unit of competency that defines or identifies the evidences required to determine the competence of the individual. It provides information on critical aspects of competency, underpinning knowledge, underpinning skills, resource implications, assessment method and context of assessment
• Level – refers to the category of skills and knowledge required to do a job
• Method of Assessment – refers to the ways of collecting evidence and when, evidence should be collected
• National Certificate (NC) – is a certification issued to individuals who achieve all the required units of competency for a national qualification defined under the Training Regulations. NCs are aligned to specific levels within the PTQF
• Performance Criteria – are evaluative statements that specify what is to be assessed and the required level of performance
• Qualification – is a cluster of units of competencies that meet job roles and are significant in the workplace. It is also a certification awarded to a person on successful completion of a course in recognition of having demonstrated competencies in an industry sector
• Range of Variables – describes the circumstances or context in which the work is to be performed
• Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) – is the acknowledgement of an individual’s skills, knowledge and attitudes gained from life and work experiences outside registered training programs
• Resource Implications – refers to the resources needed for the successful performance of the work activity described in the unit of competency. It includes work environment and conditions, materials, tools and equipment
• Basic Competencies – are the skills and knowledge that everyone needs for work
• Training Regulations (TR) – refers to the document promulgated and issued by TESDA consisting of competency standards, national qualifications and training guidelines for specific sectors/occupations. The TR serve as basis for establishment of qualification and certification under the PTQF. It also serves as guide for development of competency-based curricula and instructional materials including registration of TVET programs offered by TVET providers
• Underpinning Knowledge – refers to the competency that involves in applying knowledge to perform work activities. It includes specific knowledge that is essential to the performance of the competency
• Underpinning Skills – refers to the list of the skills needed to achieve the elements and performance criteria in the unit of competency. It includes generic and industry specific skills
• Underpinning skills – refers to the list of the skills needed to achieve the elements and performance criteria in the unit of competency. It includes generic and industry specific skills
• Unit of Competency – is a component of the competency standards stating a specific key function or role in a particular job or occupation; it is the smallest component of achievement that can be assessed and certified under the PTQF