Solar energy has seen record growth in recent years, leading to greater-than-ever demand for

solar engineers. In fact, according to the Solar Energy Industries Association, solar energy is one
of the fastest growing sectors of the economy. According to a report released by the U.S. Bureau
of Labor Statistics, Engineers are one of the most sought-after occupations by employers in the
solar power industry." The industry requires a range of types of engineers, and many of them
have skill sets and training particular to working with solar.
Mechanical Engineers
Mechanical engineers work with the actual mechanical devices employed in capturing and
transferring solar electricity. They develop, research, design and manufacture these devices,
including panels, engines, machines, tools and other equipment involved in the installation and
upkeep of a solar energy system. The manufacture of solar photovoltaic equipment is often
automated, and mechanical engineers are also responsible for the machines that manufacture
the machinery and equipment that create and assemble the components of solar panels. There
are several different roles for a mechanical engineer to contribute to photovoltaic energy
generation.
I'll
go
through
a
few
of
them.
A solar cell is as much a mechanical device as an electrical device, even though it has no moving
parts. The manufacture of a solar cell involves drawing a silicon crystal boule, cutting it into
wafers, and processing the wafers. It is critical that the wafers produced have a minimum of
defects, so each step must be executed with extreme precision. Mechanical engineers are
involved
in
designing
the
equipment
and
controlling
manufacturing
process.
After a solar cell is produced, it is encapsulated in a laminate with glass on the front, a thin layer
of encapsulant, and a backsheet on the back. This process also requires mechanical engineers to
design
the
equipment
and
control
the
process.
This laminate is then assembled into a module, with a junction box on the back and an aluminum
frame around the edges. A mechanical engineer designs the module to meet market
requirements in CAD, then produces drawings which are referenced in the manufacturing
process.
After modules are produced, they need to be put out in the sun. Mechanical engineers design
different mounting products, such as racking, fixed tilt structures, and solar trackers. These
mounting products are designed in CAD and manufactured to the specifications on an
engineering
drawing,
both
by
mechanical
engineers.
At the most downstream level, projects of all sizes are designed by a mechanical and/or civil
engineer. The exact layout of the panels and mounting system are drawn (normally in AutoCAD),
which the project manager and contractors use to build it.
the mechanical engineering expertise that is necessary in the design of inverter cooling systems
and cabinets.
In my view, the biggest opportunities for innovation based on the knowledge and insight of a
mechanical engineer lie with the module frame and the support structure, and even more with
their integration.
In a world of very low silicon cost the pressure to reduce costs on the BOS (balance-of-system)
side is tremendous. So there is significant opportunity for innovative solutions that meet the load
and reliability requirements, yet do so at less than 0.10 USD/Wp.
(Module-support) integrated designs have potential not just for cost reduction of the component,
but for transformative disruption of the logistics and construction processes.

As with semiconductors the process and metrology equipment for PV manufacture has a LOT of
mechanical engineering activity.
MECHANICAL ENGINEERS CREATE HIGH-TECH SOLAR PANELS
Posted in Energy Inventions | Photovoltaic Cells | Solar Power

Efforts are continuously on to make solar panels more efficient so that in future
sunlight can be used as an alternative to fossil fuels. Researchers are putting tremendous effort
to minimize the inadequacies of current solar panels. Both, Michael Jensen, Ph.D., a mechanical
engineer and Anna Dyson, an architectural scientist from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy,
New York, along with their team are trying to make solar systems in terms of power and heat
nearly eighty percent efficient.
Conventional solar systems are around 15 percent efficient. Their photovoltaic designs contain
strings of thin lenses that track the suns movement. Sunlight floods each lens and is focused
onto a postage-stamp sized, high-tech solar cell. This way they will be able to capture suns
energy and transform it into electricity and heat. Sensing the sunlight just like a sunflower and
turning towards that light will enhance the efficiency of these high-tech solar cells.
Development of this radical new solar energy technology assures to collect and distribute solar
energy more efficiently. A pile of spinning lenses can be integrated into a glass building. These
lenses can track the movement of the sun across the sky, but all the time focusing its rays onto
high-tech solar cells. The main breakthrough is this minuscule concentrator solar cell. Usual solar
cell collector area occupies 4 x 4 feet space. But this postage stamp size collector is much more
efficient in accumulating and using solar energy. Incorporating these new cells into arrays could
make solar energy an option that is competitive with other energy sources, reducing our
dependency on fossil fuels.
We basically have a system that can sense where the sun is at any time, and then the modules
will basically be facing directly perpendicular to the incoming sun rays, Anna Dyson says. The
lenses will be nestled between window panes and all of the pieces will be made of glass. This
system will reduce the lighting needs of buildings during daytime as it will provide usable light
inside and save the electricity cost. The system will be installed in the Center for Excellence and
Environmental Energy Systems in Syracuse, New York, in 2008, and in the Fashion Institute of
Technology in New York City by 2009.
Mechanical Engineer
Job Description / Responsibilities:
Use design software to design, fabricate and construct structures for photovoltaic systems
components and modules. This includes development of detailed models and layouts based on
engineering specifications and concepts for a variety of machine subassemblies, hydraulics
drives and structures.
Work with design engineers, manufacturing engineers, etc. to conceive, engineer, design and
develop new and unique structures of photovoltaic systems.
Conduct design reviews based on detailed models and layouts.
Provide full documentation packages including detailed assembly drawings, piece part drawings,
specifications and bills of material. Include engineering analysis when necessary.
Manage overall development of various subassemblies, including writing of specifications, design
and documentation, scheduling, and construction of prototypes, reliability testing, final testing
and final equipment release.
Design for manufacturability, ease of assembly, cost effectiveness and serviceability. Correct the
causes of design related problems.
Assist in cost reduction initiatives, vendor development, reverse engineering and application of
modern maintenance practices.
Knowledge of Indian Boiler Regulations, Petroleum Act, AWS, ASTM, ASME and IS will be added
advantage.

Management of SHE aspects in functional areas and be able to prepare Risk Assessment of
maintenance activities
Will be responsible for system design calculations using, applicable software programs
Ability to proficiently use Inventor and AutoCAD.
Desired Candidate Profile:
BE/ Diploma in Mechanical Engineering, a related discipline with 4 to 7 years of experience in
Mechanical Engineering in a Power Plant. Should have exposure to maintenance, trouble shooting
& condition monitoring of heavy machines. Design software experience (Inventor, Solid Works,
Pro E, etc.) & equipment design experience required. Strong mechanical design, equipment
documentation, and design software knowledge. Practical knowledge of the machine shop, sheet
metal and welding practice. Should have the knowledge of reading P& IDs, equipment drawings
and identifying spare requirement for, various equipment.
Design Engineer Photo Voltaic Design
Job Description / Responsibilities:
Design including Technology Selection, System Configuration, Electrical Connection, Distribution
and Control Systems, Power Conditioning Systems for Photo Voltaic power plant
Responsible for complete project management through the installation, testing and
commissioning of the system.
Design, Erection, Commissioning and Maintenance of Photo Voltaic Power Plants
Working with the companys engineers and program managers to ensure customers needs are
met.
Develops plans, coordinates and directs the engineering work for a major project, or several
smaller, but complex projects, or for the design within a specific discipline.
Maintains engineering records, lists and reports as required to ensure compliance with the
client's schedule, adherence to the budget, adherence to procurement specification, or to ensure
engineering problems are monitored and resolved.
Desired Candidate Profile:
BE/ Diploma - Electrical, specialization in LT/HT systems design, installation and operation. Hands
on experience in field installation and commissioning of complete power and transmission
systems with AC and DC cabling, switchgear, SCADA, transformers, instrumentation. Should have
ability to get the relevant certification with codes to connect to the grid and transmission lines.
Minimum 5 years of experience, preferably in the area of power generation system design and
project management. Should have experience in managing design, installation and
commissioning of complex large scale PV generation projects.
The position is project based the candidate should be willing to travel and locate on site for the
duration of project. Ideal candidate will be able to address all requirements for getting job done
including interaction with customers, suppliers, vendors and local labor.
Quality Engineer Electrical - Solar Power Plant
Job Description / Responsibilities:
The Candidate will be responsible for overseeing the entire quality aspect at the site. The job
-quality control at site Inputs / outputs inspection & records, laboratory functioning & sampling,
ensuring production is as per ISO norms.Task
Preparation of the Project Quality Plans, Quality Control Plans and Project Quality Procedures
which guarantee compliance with contractual requirements and ISO Standards.
Preparation of work procedures for different activities.
Quality checking of site work, and performing inspection of the Project material / Components &
Checking/Inspection the Site Execution work.
Monitoring that proper quality standards are maintained at sites. Compliance to applicable
manufacturing codes and Implementation of Field quality assurance plans.
Shall need to initiate quality improvement activities and make suggestions at all levels at the
site. Initiates and promotes all necessary corrective actions for any failure identified within
Project Quality.
nspection at suppliers works and at project Sites. Checking of Contractor bills & Dealing with
Govt. authority regarding site problems. Assesses the Quality Control Plans of sub-contractors
and identify any necessary corrective measures.

Feedback on major problems, ensure corrective actions & Ensure proactive approach to prevent
mistakes.
Supports the Project Manager in preparation of all the required project management procedures
and documents.
Ensures contract review and project close out are adequately performed.
Provides the necessary back-up to the Proposal/Project Manager regarding contractual issues
relating to Quality both during tender and project execution phase.
Provides periodical analysis of project date (NCs-Non Conformity, complaints and lesson learnt).
Monitors adequate close out of NCs- Non Conformity and events.
Responsible for ensuring personnel comply with standards, Environment, Health, Safety at site,
regulation, specification & documented procedure. Training for staff and subcontractor workmen.
Overall Responsible for meeting the customer satisfaction by implementing QMS Monitoring the
site activities to avoid non-conformances regarding quality.
Resolution of quality related problems at site with concurrence of client, if any. Conducting the
Management Review Meetings at site for resolution of problems at site, if any.
Laboratory Testing and Preparation of Quality Control Reports.
Internal Audits at site and at nearby sites.
Client co-ordination & Cost Control.
To ensure Implementation of EMS/EMP & OSHAS at site.
To get Environmental Clearance (EC), Consent To Establish (CTO) & Consent to Operate (CTO).
Installation & Commissioning of STP at sites.
Monitoring various types of material/ soil testing activities.
Maintain QMSP as per ISO.Ensuring compliance of all procedures and systems related to quality
and Health, safety and Environment at all sites
Desired Candidate Profile:
B.E/Diploma Electrical, Has extensive experience to independently drive internal and external
suppliers of services to deliver High Quality projects on schedule and within budget. Has handled
the entire quality aspect for a project.
And has experience in preparation of the Project Quality Plans, Quality Control Plans and Project
Quality Procedures which guarantee compliance with contractual requirements and ISO
Standards. Monitoring that proper quality standards are maintained at sites.
Industrial Engineers
Industrial engineers have the big picture in mind, and they help to coordinate the overall
implementation of solar energy systems in buildings and communities. They assess the needs of
creating solar installations, including materials, energy, people, machines and information, and
they work with contractors to ensure that a system is designed as efficiently as possible. They
research sites, energy usage and needs, and system capabilities to make certain that a solar
system meets the needs of clients and businesses. They also work directly the installers on the
ground to ensure a project gets installed and up and running as planned.

Candidate with a degree/ diploma in Mechanical/Structural Engineering with at least 1+ year experience in Mechanical
structural designing/ quality assurance.
Responsible for quality assurance & installation of mechanical structures used in solar PV plant.
Responsible for STAAD analysis & structural simulation (design load analysis) for various rooftop and ground mount mounting
structures.
Responsible for preparation of fabrication drawings (both in 2D & 3D AutoCAD).
Sound knowledge Indian Standards (IS) for mechanical load designs.
Preference to be given to a candidate with the following experience:o
Technical:o
Candidate with knowledge of Indian Structural standards.
o
Fabrication/ Installation experience.
o
MIS reporting to HQ & making required changes to the project execution schedule.
o
Software skills:- MS Projects, Power point, Excel, STAAD, AutoCAD, ANSYS, etc..
o
Experience in quality assurance & pre dispatch inspections.
o
General:o
Ability to set and manage priorities to achieve the goals as per the schedule.

Ability to work in a team & communicate with design, contracting, and other teams
Flexibility to adapt to unexpected situations and collaborate with diverse parties to complete tasks on time, quality

o
o
and cost.
o
o
o

Good troubleshooting & analytical capability.

Willing to travel and work on-site for execution of solar PV plants.
Working experience in the areas like, telecom towers, facade design, design load analysis, etc.

Objective of the Training:

To give an overview of Solar Photovoltaic technologies

To give an exposure to working/live Solar Photovoltaic equipments

To help enhance awareness of the students on various job options in the Solar Photovoltaic industry

Technical Job skill:

Working process to generate solar power

PV Solar Rooftop and Power Plant Calculation, Design

Electrical equipments handling & its function

Mechanical equipments and its function

components and functions of junction box

occupational health and safe working practices

Professional Skills:
You can able to

operate/use different tools used in installation work

Fill report form, make documentation

Communicate with supervisor and co ordinate with co workers

work as a team member for achieving quality work/customer satisfaction

Understand company's policies and need