Minor Degree in Solar Energy System

Introduction to Minor Degree

The Minor Degree in Solar Energy System is designed to provide students with specialized knowledge in the field of renewable energy, particularly solar energy. This program equips students with theoretical and practical skills necessary to understand, design, and implement solar energy systems.

Need & Future Scope

The demand for renewable energy is growing exponentially worldwide, and solar energy is at the forefront of this transformation. By pursuing this minor degree, students will gain expertise in solar energy technology, making them highly valuable in industries such as solar power generation, sustainable energy solutions, and green technology innovation. Future scope includes opportunities in research, industrial applications, and entrepreneurship in the solar energy sector.

Minor Degree Subject Names with Semester and GTU Syllabus Link

Subcode Subject Name Semester/Year
114AJ01 Solar Energy System-I 4
115AJ01 Solar Energy System-II 5
116AJ01 Installation and Commissioning of Solar Plant 6
116AJ02 Photovoltaic System Sizing 6
117AJ01 Solar System Integration Challenges 7

Minor Degree Lab. Facilities Available with Photographs

The department is equipped with state-of-the-art laboratories that provide hands-on experience with solar energy system components, installation techniques, and performance analysis tools. The lab facilities include:

1. Solar Panels

  • Types: Include a range of solar panels such as monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and thin-film panels.
  • Mounting: Fixed and adjustable mounting systems to study the impact of angle and orientation on efficiency.

2. Inverters

  • Grid-Tied Inverters: For systems connected to the utility grid.
  • Stand-Alone Inverters: For off-grid solar systems.

3. Batteries

  • Types: Lead-acid, lithium-ion, and other advanced battery technologies for energy storage.
  • Mounting: To study charge levels, discharge rates, and lifecycle management.

4. Charge Controllers

  • PWM Controllers: Simple and cost-effective for basic experiments.
  • MPPT Controllers: More efficient, used to maximize the energy harvested from the PV array.

5. Measurement and Testing Equipment

  • Solar Irradiance Meters:To measure the solar power available at any given time.
  • Energy Meters: To measure the energy produced by the solar panels.
  • Multimeters and Clamp Meters:For electrical testing and troubleshooting

6. PV System Design Software:

  • Software like PVsyst for designing and simulating solar power systems.

7. Safety Equipment

  • Insulation Resistance Testers:To ensure all components are safely insulated.
  • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Gloves, safety glasses, and other protective gear.

Expert Lectures & Industrial Visits Conducted in Minor Degree


Event Type Name of Expert Topic/Industry Name Date
Expert Lecture Mr. Japen gor System sizing for standalone systems 02/11/2023
Industrial Visit Prof. Kashyap Gadhiya Plant Visit to GPCL Modhera Solar Plant, Modhera 07/11/2023
Expert Lecture Dr. Piyush Miyani Issues in grid integration of Solar system. 02/02/2024
Industrial Visit Prof. Kashyap Gadhiya Shiv Solar Farm Modhera visit 03/02/2024