Showing posts with label training. Show all posts
Showing posts with label training. Show all posts

Program - 2018 Institute for CSR Certificate

The 2018 Institute for CSR program will take place Mar. 15 – 16, May 10 – 11, July 26 – 27, Sept. 20 – 21 in Washington, DC. Over the course of four, two-day sessions, participants learn from some of the field’s most innovative thinkers, authors, and practitioners, expand their professional networks learning alongside CSR peers from across the country, all while earning a Professional Certificate in CSR from Johns Hopkins University.  Coursework will focus on a wide range of topics, including CSR strategy, trends in philanthropy, employee engagement, ethics and sustainability, measurement, and communications.

Launched in 2014, the Institute for Corporate Social Responsibility was designed by—and for—those in the corporate social responsibility (CSR) field as a practical, interactive, and affordable professional development opportunity for CSR practitioners. This program is designed for CSR practitioners searching for the skills, inspiration, and expanded professional network needed to deliver increased value back to their company and the communities they serve.

The Institute currently accepts up to 25 applicants per year. This small class size ensures maximum faculty and participant interaction, allows for deep and meaningful group discussions and debates, and affords the opportunity to take classroom learnings offsite with “field trips” and networking events. This non-credit, professional certificate program is an initiative of the Washington Regional Association of Grantmakers, offered in partnership with Advanced Academic Programs at Johns Hopkins University and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Corporate Citizenship Center.

“The Institute for CSR provides business professionals with the opportunity to connect with their peers in the field, learn from the most innovative thinkers in CSR, and grow their skills to make a greater impact,” said Marc DeCourcey, senior vice president of the U.S. Chamber Foundation. “By focusing on practical, real-world skills and best practices, the Institute is a valuable experience for all and I encourage those looking to enhance their work to apply to join the 2018 class.”

Now entering its fifth year, the Institute for CSR is a professional development program designed for business professionals currently working in a CSR role. Since its launch, the Institute has featured the expertise of CSR leaders from American Express, IBM, Johnson & Johnson, Walmart, and other major corporations.

“When we originally designed the Institute for CSR five years ago, it was as a practical, interactive, and affordable professional development opportunity for the CSR field,” said Katy Moore, managing director of Corporate Strategy for the Washington Regional Association of Grantmakers. “What we didn’t anticipate was the invaluable personal and professional connections that participants would build with the faculty, guest speakers, and their fellow classmates. Many of these relationships have strengthened over time and our alumni networks have become trusted sources of advice and feedback for current and past participants.”

"Over the past decade, we've seen an incredible upswing in "corporate citizenship" among companies worldwide, increasing the demand for skilled experts in this burgeoning field,” said Karin Orr, program coordinator for the Graduate Certificate in Nonprofit Management at Johns Hopkins University. “The Institute for CSR capitalizes on this demand by providing a dynamic and innovative space for cross-sectoral exchange and ongoing dialogue among some of the most incredible leading professionals in the CSR field."

Click here to download the brochure
Click here to register.

Event - 24 Reasons for Hope

This event calls each one of us to do our part to combat the climate crisis. We have to get beyond the dire scientific predictions warning us about rising seas and devastating drought. It is time for hope, time for us to realize that we have a choice to do something about the climate crisis. It is time for us to act. This movement encourages people to "dedicate a day for action." This can include anything from voting to marching to speaking out in your community.

As explained by Al Gore, the Founder and Chairman of The Climate Reality Project, Twenty-Four Hours to Change the World is about making a difference at this pivotal time in human history."

"It’s time to stand up and stop climate change. It’s time to turn the solutions we have into the clean energy future we want."

One of the most important things we can do is transition away from fossil fuels towards renewable sources of energy. This point is being driven home by the declining costs of renewables and the growing awareness of the dangers associated with fossil fuels. We are at a turning point in human history where clean energy goes mainstream. All that we need to bring this ambition to fruition is popular support and political will.

Make sure you listen in on the signature 24 Hours of Reality global broadcast which is taking place on September 16—17, 24 Hours of Reality: 24 Reasons for Hope.

This broadcast will celebrate the innovation and progress in climate solutions happening all across the planet. Hosted by former Vice President Al Gore, each hour will highlight a new milestone and reason to be hopeful about solving the climate crisis; from the smart growth strategies now guiding cities everywhere to the ways renewables are helping to increase energy access and combat poverty for millions.

To tell these success stories, the will feature presentations from Vice President Gore, conversations with cultural icons and activists like Mark Ruffalo and Wanjira Mathai, reports from the field, and town hall-style discussions with audience members like you. In between, musical performances from artists like Jack Johnson, Colbie Calliat, and Jason Mraz give hope a lively beat.

The program will kickstart a year of concerted action as each hour invites viewers to dedicate a day in the following 12 months to making a difference and working for climate solutions. The idea is to get millions of people around the world to act on climate change. These efforts will occur against the backdrop of negotiations by world leaders who are working on a new framework for global action.

For more information click here.

Related Articles
Climate Reality Leaders Program Graduate in Action (Susan Pacheco)
Training With Climate Reality
Climate Leaders Training Program in South Africa
24 Hours of Reality the Cost of Carbon
Help Support the Training of Climate Leaders
24 Hours of Reality (2011)

Course - Solar Photovoltaic

This two-day course on solar photovoltaics (Basic + Advanced) will take place on the 26th - 27th September 2014, at Edinburgh Napier University. It is also available online. The course is designed for technicians and individuals intending to learn how to install, maintain and repair Solar Photovoltaic equipment.

Participants of this course learn how Solar Panels work and gain a thorough understanding of solar PV systems, this allows them to apply for registration with an Microgeneration Certification Scheme.

Become a Solar Energy Expert Consultant - Participants on this course can also take Electrics for Renewables and Renewable Energy Management and Finance courses to achieve the new Solar Energy Consultant Expert Certificate.

Course Content

Composition of the light.
Photovoltaic effect.
Photovoltaic cells.
Materials.
Daily/ annual energy.
Positioning of the modules.
Photovoltaic Energy.
Photovoltaic Illumination.
Planning and designing a photovoltaic installation.
The electric load.
Costs and evaluation of the economical solutions.
Maintenance and reliability.
Practical solutions.
Typologies and modality of installation.
Integration of the photovoltaic modules in the building structure.
Payback time.
Economical perspectives.

For more information click here.

Related Articles
Solar's Prodigious Growth in the US 
Solar Power's Prodigious Global Growth
Photovaltaic Panel Shortages - The Downside of the Solar Boom 
The Obama Administration's Support for Solar
Solar Innovation in Energy Generation and Transportation 

Global Solar Industry Outlook for 2014
The Solar Industry at a Glance: Past Present and Future
Ambitious Growth Predicted for Solar in 2013 and 2014
US Solar is Breaking Records and Shining Bright in 2013

Top Twelve Solar Friendly US States
The Growth of Global Solar Energy
Chinese Solar to Lead the World
America Surpasses a Solar PV Milestone and Keeps Going
Video - Local Small Scale Solar Across the US: Freeing the Grid
Infographic - The Growth of Solar Energy (2014)
Infographic: Global Solar Energy 2007 - 2014
Infographic - US Solar Growth 2013
Infographic - Solar Energy Price Declines
Infographic - Leading Companies Installing Solar Energy (2013)
Infographic - Solar Installations by State
Infographic - Top 10 Solar States

Course - Electrics for Solar PV and Renewable Systems

This course on Electrics for Solar PV and renewable systems will address safety, instruments and controls. This intensive two-day course offers an exam for the Galileo Master Certificate. It is intended for professionals and individuals with a strong interest in the electrical equipment side of renewable systems, safety instruments and controls.

It will take place on the 24th - 25th September 2014, at Edinburgh Napier University. It is also available online with live tutorial.

Become a Solar Energy Expert Consultant - Participants in this course can also take Solar Photovoltaic and Renewable Energy Management and Finance courses to achieve the new Solar Energy Consultant Expert Certificate.

Course Content

Electrical Fundamentals
Electrical Safety
Instrumentation
Battery Backup
Inverters
Earthing and Bonding
Cable Termination Skills
Fault Isolation
Safe Isolation Methods
Supply System Overview
Electrical Regulations Overview
Exam
Practical hands-on experience showing the use of test equipment to enhance installation and troubleshooting technique on renewable energy systems.

The practical sessions will include exercises in: 

· aligning solar panels
· true power measurement
· use of dummy loads
· inverter testing
· checking meter calibration
· insulation testing

Note: participants will be connecting solar panels/renewable equipment, supervised, in a safe environment.

Course Objectives
  • Understand components and arrangements found in renewable systems.
  • Recognise the types of instrumentation used in the operation of renewable systems, including sizing, interfacing and using battery backup systems.
  • Identify the advantages and limitations of inverter types and technologies.
  • Understand the types of electrical dangers and the need for safety.
  • Recognise the need for reliable and safe terminations, earthing and bonding regulations.
  • Understand the concept of safe isolation and fault isolation techniques and equipment.

For more information click here.

Related Articles
Solar's Prodigious Growth in the US
Solar Power's Prodigious Global Growth
Photovaltaic Panel Shortages - The Downside of the Solar Boom 
The Obama Administration's Support for Solar
Solar Innovation in Energy Generation and Transportation 

Global Solar Industry Outlook for 2014
The Solar Industry at a Glance: Past Present and Future
Ambitious Growth Predicted for Solar in 2013 and 2014
US Solar is Breaking Records and Shining Bright in 2013

Top Twelve Solar Friendly US States
The Growth of Global Solar Energy
Chinese Solar to Lead the World
America Surpasses a Solar PV Milestone and Keeps Going
Video - Local Small Scale Solar Across the US: Freeing the Grid
Infographic - The Growth of Solar Energy (2014)
Infographic: Global Solar Energy 2007 - 2014
Infographic - US Solar Growth 2013
Infographic - Solar Energy Price Declines
Infographic - Leading Companies Installing Solar Energy (2013)
Infographic - Solar Installations by State
Infographic - Top 10 Solar States

Workshop - Photovoltaic System Fundamentals

The Photovoltaic System Fundamentals workshop will take place on June 13 2014 - Jun 14 2014. This 1 1/2 day workshop will introduce participants to the basic concepts, tools, materials and construction and engineering techniques needed to design and construct systems that convert solar resources into electricity with photovoltaic (PV) technologies. Participants will learn how to assess the solar resources available at a particular site and how to use that information to estimate the energy production and economics of a PV system. Participants will learn how to design and construct safe and reliable code compliant photovoltaic systems.

The workshop will address contemporary trends, products and policies and incentives. It will include lectures and power point presentations, site assessment and system design and construction activities, computer modeling, and exploration of numerous systems we have set up around the Department of Technology & Environmental Design at Appalachian State University.

Learning Objectives:

1.Measure and assess solar resources at a site and using that data estimate the energy production and system economics of photovoltaic systems
2.Identify and describe a wide variety of components used in solar electricity producing systems and basic system types
3.Design and construct both grid tied and battery based photovoltaic systems
4.Describe policies and incentives in place to stimulate the market for PV in NC
5.Estimate the economics of PV systems Who should attend? High school** and community college teachers, architects, engineers, builders, handy homeowners, entrepreneurs, and tradesmen and women

**Note: 5 FULL scholarships (sorry, all are claimed, I can put your name on a list if someone cancels) are available to the first 5 high school teachers that email millerjm1@appstate.edu**

Cost: $375* (includes lunch on Friday) *Early Registration Cost: $325 - Register by close of business day May 23 to receive discount Students in UNC system cost: $300** **Student Early Registration Cost: $275

Location: Appalachian State University Campus, *Revised Location* -Room 180 in Katherine Harper Hall/Kerr Scott Hall. Park at Rivers Street Parking Deck next to building, a parking permit that you should display in your vehicle will be issued at check-in. Time: Friday, June 13 9:00am - 4:00 pm and Saturday, June 14 9:00am - 1:00pm

Continuing Education Credits Offered: 1.0 License renewal credit for teachers, 10 LU|HSW, 10 PDH All attendees will receive a Certificate of Completion

Instructor: Dennis Scanlin

Dennis Scanlin is a Professor in the Department of Technology and Environmental Design at Appalachian State University. He received a BS from Penn State University and a MA & Ed.D from West Virginia University. Energy education & renewable energy technology have been the major focus of his work.

He has designed, constructed & tested many renewable energy systems including; solar ovens, food dryers, lumber kilns, water heaters, water distillers, space heating systems, green houses, and small hydro, wind, & PV systems. He has also developed and taught numerous courses and workshops focusing on a wide variety of renewable energy technologies over the last 30 years. Over the last 10 years renewable electricity system design and construction has been the major focus of his work.

Click here to register.

Related Articles
Solar's Prodigious Growth in the US
Solar Power's Prodigious Global Growth
Photovaltaic Panel Shortages - The Downside of the Solar Boom
The Obama Administration's Support for Solar
Solar Innovation in Energy Generation and Transportation

Global Solar Industry Outlook for 2014
The Solar Industry at a Glance: Past Present and Future
Ambitious Growth Predicted for Solar in 2013 and 2014
US Solar is Breaking Records and Shining Bright in 2013

Top Twelve Solar Friendly US States
The Growth of Global Solar Energy
Chinese Solar to Lead the World
America Surpasses a Solar PV Milestone and Keeps Going
Video - Local Small Scale Solar Across the US: Freeing the Grid
Infographic - The Growth of Solar Energy (2014)
Infographic: Global Solar Energy 2007 - 2014
Infographic - US Solar Growth 2013
Infographic - Solar Energy Price Declines
Infographic - Leading Companies Installing Solar Energy (2013)
Infographic - Solar Installations by State
Infographic - Top 10 Solar States

Course - Solar PV Planning & Operations

Solar PV Planning & Operations will take place on May 12 - 14, 2014 at the Green Power Academy in London. The conference will provide a comprehensive, clear-language guide to solar resources, PV system technologies and other key project planning, economic and risk considerations.

Course Overview

During 2013, Solar PV overtook Wind Power to become the fastest growing renewable power source in terms of annual new capacity. As the cost of PV modules has plummeted, so the economics of solar PV have become attractive across a multitude of markets and with less and less dependence on unstable policy supports. PV has become regarded as a quick-to-deploy, cheap-to-operate and largely low-risk business, yet the truth is that projects do underperform and that – particularly as policy supports lessen – profitability carries risk. It is therefore becoming more vital than ever for those involved in the business of solar to understand where these risks arise and how to quantify them. Over the course of three intensive and time-efficient days, attendees will discover and quantify how resource assessment, technology choices and both plant and wider market operational issues vary, and how each impacts the business success (or failure) of solar PV projects.

Key Learning Objectives
  • Quantify the size, uncertainty, scalability and physical constraints on solar energy resources
  • Understand the key technology principles, trends and choices in the conversion of solar energy using photovoltaics (PV)
  • Learn how other components in a PV system impact overall system performance and project risk
  • Discover how the operational performance of large-scale solar projects can be optimised (and the risks that exist)
  • Understand the external operational challenges to increasing solar PV in the energy mix, including grid stability and balance, plus solutions such as battery storage
  • Discuss the integration of solar PV into energy markets at a variety of scales, from utility to small-scale, distributed projects
  • Quantify the various learning points into an understanding of financial risks and returns

For more information click here.

Related Articles
The Rapid Growth of On-Site Solar Energy in the US
Solar's Prodigious Growth in the US
Solar Power's Prodigious Global Growth
Photovaltaic Panel Shortages - The Downside of the Solar Boom
The Obama Administration's Support for Solar
Video - Commerical Solar for Business in the UK
Video - Solar Sphere: A Revolutionary Sun Tracking Technology
Solar Innovation in Energy Generation and Transportation

Global Solar Industry Outlook for 2014
The Solar Industry at a Glance: Past Present and Future
Ambitious Growth Predicted for Solar in 2013 and 2014
US Solar is Breaking Records and Shining Bright in 2013

Top Twelve Solar Friendly US States
The Growth of Global Solar Energy
Chinese Solar to Lead the World
America Surpasses a Solar PV Milestone and Keeps Going
Video - Local Small Scale Solar Across the US: Freeing the Grid
Infographic - The Growth of Solar Energy (2014)
Infographic: Global Solar Energy 2007 - 2014
Infographic - US Solar Growth 2013
Infographic - Solar Energy Price Declines
Infographic - Leading Companies Installing Solar Energy (2013)
Infographic - Solar Installations by State
Infographic - Top 10 Solar States

Direct Action Camp - How to Peacefully Protest (Greenpeace)

On March 23-28 Greenpeace is facilitating a direct action camp in Phoenix, Arizona that teaches people how to creatively and peacefully protest while connecting with activists from all over the US. We need to see movement on an number of fronts including climate change and other environmental issues. No organization has more experience or is better equipped to instruct people about how to peacefully protest than Greenpeace.

Participants will learn a number of valuable and exciting skills related to advocacy. Specifically they can learn about climbing, boating, arts, blockades, research and even how to protest using an airship. These are just some of the offerings at Greenpeace’s non-violent direct action camp this year in the Phoenix, Arizona area.

Action camp starts with folks from all walks of life coming together, honoring diversity, and working across difference. They come together to learn and share skills in support of the growing movements, campaigns, and communities working toward a common goal-– a just and equitable existence for all.

Greenpeace is delighted to participate, and is working hard to make it a safe and inclusive space for all. However, we’re merely facilitating. We need you to make it happen. This is your camp, after all.

Get involved! The application deadline is January 31, 2014. Click here to apply.

Related Articles
Climate Reality Leaders Program Graduate in Action (Susan Pacheco)
Training With Climate Reality
Climate Leaders Training Program in South Africa
24 Hours of Reality the Cost of Carbon
Help Support the Training of Climate Leaders
24 Hours of Reality (2011)

Video - Climate Reality Leaders Program Graduate in Action

Video - Climate Reality Leaders Program Graduate in Action

This video that highlights a Climate Reality Leader program graduate in action. Dr. Susan Pacheco is one of the nearly 6,000 Climate Reality Leaders that are trained by former U.S. Vice President Gore to share the message that climate change is real ... is happening now ... and is one of the most important issues of today.

If you're interested in becoming a Climate Reality Leader, click here to apply for our upcoming training in Johannesburg, South Africa on March 12-14, 2014.

Please consider supporting the Climate Reality Leaders program with a charitable gift this holiday season. Click here to make your gift go twice as far.

Related Articles
Training With Climate Reality
Climate Leaders Training Program in South Africa
24 Hours of Reality the Cost of Carbon
Help Support the Training of Climate Leaders
24 Hours of Reality (2011)

Training with The Climate Reality Leadership Corps in South Africa

Attend a Training with The Climate Reality Leadership Corps By joining the Climate Reality Leadership Corps at the training in Johannesburg, South Africa March 12-14, you will join a very select group of world-changers who’ve come together to confront the greatest issue of our time, the one that will define us to future generations. You bring commitment to this cause backed by a long list of accomplishments. This training is your opportunity to take your skills to the next level and go from great to truly exceptional.

During the training, you’ll learn from former Vice President and Climate Reality Project Chairman Al Gore and a group of world-class scientists, strategists, communicators, and organizers about the science of climate change and how to talk to people across the continent about the ways this crisis affects them personally — and what can be done to solve it. You’ll learn how to combine science and solutions, organizing techniques proven by decades of social movements with a 21st-century approach to outreach through storytelling, public speaking, social media networking, and media engagement.

Over the course of the training, you’ll meet trained Climate Reality Leaders with experience in organizing and presenting who come from various professional backgrounds and learn from their experience. You will also meet an incredible group of exceptionally motivated individuals training alongside you including public servants, business people, academics, activists, non-profit professionals, educators, and more. We can’t promise exactly what comes next, but we can promise these three days will change your life.

Previous trainings have covered themes such as:

Environmental Security

Climate change has been identified as a threat multiplier in regions of the world where changing temperatures will place additional stress on natural resources such as food and water. Previous panels have discussed the implications of climate change for issues of security in different regions of the world.

Business

It is primarily the role of business leadership to drive strategic and long-term transformational change and lead the way to a low–carbon development path. Previous topics include how businesses leaders can take action against climate change and respond accordingly to the pressing challenges in their daily operations.

The Health Cost of Carbon

Drought. Pollution. Wildfires. What we consume is consuming us. Over the past decade we have seen a dramatic rise in asthma and respiratory diseases. Professionals working in the healthcare field will share how to make the compelling case that climate change and fossil fuel consumption is negatively impacting our health.

How To Apply

Take the first step towards joining the Climate Reality network and a future without carbon pollution. Applications must be submitted by February 7th but will be reviewed on a rolling basis, so we encourage you to apply as soon as possible.

For more information or to register click here.

Related Articles
Climate Reality Leaders Program Graduate in Action (Susan Pacheco)
Training With Climate Reality
Climate Leaders Training Program in South Africa
24 Hours of Reality the Cost of Carbon
Help Support the Training of Climate Leaders
24 Hours of Reality (2011)

Event - EIA 2013 Fall Technical Seminar

The Environmental Information Association (EIA) is holding its Fall 2013 Technical Seminar on October 18, 2013 at the Hyatt Regency in San Antonio Texas. This EIA event will feature Peter M. Tadin, Environmental Specialist, Environmental Hazards Group, Texas Department of State Health Services – presenting on the Texas State Lead Regulations.

Schedule

8:30am - Welcome & Introduction – Brent Kynoch, EIA Managing Director

8:45 – 9:15am – Asbestos By PLM – Method or Madness – Lee Poye, J3 Resources

9:15 – 9:45am – Region 6 Brownfields Successes and Failures –Amber Perry, EPA Region 6

9:45 – 10:15am – ASTM Verimiculite Document for Contractors – Ed Cahill and Jeanne Spencer

10:15 – 10:30am – Break

10:30 – 11:15am – West, TX Disaster and Cleanup

11:15 – 11:45am – Garbage In – Garbage Out: A Review of Notable Samples Submitted to Laboratories - Michael Breu, CIH, Fiberquant Analytical Services & Jeanie Spencer, Reservoirs Analytical Services

11:45 – 1:00pm – Lunch & Sponsor Presentations (incuded in your registration)

1:00 – 1:45pm - PPE and Fall Protection – Dana Brown

1:45 – 2:15pm – Nanoparticles and Carbon Nanotubes – Sampling and Analysis – Ed Cahill, EMSL Analytical, Inc.

2:15 – 2:45pm – ISO, ASTM, IESO, WTF? What, When, How, Why – The Inner Workings of Standards Bodies – Lisa Rogers, Mycometer

2:45 – 3:00pm- Break

3:15 – 3:45pm – EAP for Asbestos: Implosion of an 18-Story Building and Abatement at the Eastman School of Music – Kevin Cannan

3:45 – 4:15pm – HUD Guidelines Update

4:30 – 6:30pm – Texas Chapter Meeting

5:30 – 7:30pm – Fall Technical Seminar Mixer! Join us for cocktails, light fare and networking!

Click here to register.

Event - Renewable Power Economics

Renewable Power Economics is a comprehensive 2-day programme that will take place on 8-9-July-2013 providing an independent analysis of the energy market economics, competitiveness, risks and development trajectories of renewable power solutions.

Course objectives 

Understand, compare and contrast the different resource potentials, market positioning and risk factors for renewable power generation (wind, solar, geothermal, biopower, hydro, tidal and wave).

Analyse and discuss both the current and future market competitiveness of renewable power solutions versus “conventional” power- and versus each other

Quantify the current trends and future influences on renewable power growth and investment Describe key changes in the wider energy and commodity markets and their impact on renewable power (including “unconventional” fossil fuels such as shale gas, and traditional resources such as coal and iron ore)

Learn how Policy impacts the economics of renewables, how uncertainty impacts future growth and how policy solutions are changing in both scope and mechanism

Whether you are already working within one of the “green power” sectors, developing policy frameworks or evaluating investment from outside, this comprehensive, time-effective training course ensures you are brought up-to-speed with the key economic aspects of the various renewable power solutions.

Reviewing both technological and economic factors in a clear and business-focused manner, the course is particularly valuable to those in senior, strategic and business development positions - for whom it is critical to understand renewable power solutions not as individual market sectors, but as players within a wider, highly competitive and interconnected energy market.

Independently researched and presented by Green Power Academy, the course aims to be hype-free, pragmatic, realistic and – above all – interactive; addressing not just the questions that the course itself raises, but also the ones that individual attendees need to ask.

Level & Style 

The course explains all key concepts and terminology, be they in energy, technology or finance, and so is suitable for a wide range of backgrounds. Indeed the course is specifically designed to be of value to those who need to understand the various market fundamentals, market developments and financial measures.

The course runs in a friendly, informal manner, encouraging discussions and questions to ensure that participants get the most out of their time.

In order to better understand and illustrate the various topics, a variety of simple calculations, cash flow and other models and explanatory exercises are incorporated, with all materials available for attendees to take away with them, along with hard and soft copies of the course documentation, plus a comprehensive further reading list.

Approximate Timings (include lunch plus morning and afternoon refreshment breaks): Day 1: 09:00 - 17:00 // Day 2: 09:00 – 16.00

About your trainer 

Christian Erich Grütte is a regular Green Power Academy Trainer and Senior Advisor Renewable Energies at Leonardo Venablers, with many years’ experience in the renewable energy sector. He advises leading corporate and financial investors, project developers and manufacturers on business development and investment strategies internationally, assessing the potential and bankability of renewable energy deals and leading negotiations between stakeholders of the projects. Christian brings a number of specific skills including (but not exhaustive): the identification of investment drivers & inhibitors; risk assessment of technologies and policies; deal assessment & valuation; negotiations between developers, lenders and EPCs and presentation to investment committees. He holds an MSc in Industrial Engineering and Management from the Technical University of Berlin, where he also served as a Lecturer at the chair of Investment and Financing.

Testimonials

“Very solid introduction from a very knowledgeable instructor”
“Rich in discussion”
“Good balance between theoretical and interactive”

Agenda Details

Understanding World Markets for Power
  • Conventional power generation mixes: how they differ and why Conventional power fuel sources
  • Current and projected power markets, in terms of demand and supply
  • Key concepts: energy, efficiency, work and power
  • Fundamental aspects of power delivery, including scale, grid balancing, responsiveness, cost influences
  • Power pricing, including various measures of cost (capital, levelised, marginal etc.) and the merit order curve
  • Power policies and supports
Renewables in the Power Mix
  • Current renewable power solutions, markets and applications
  • Renewable investment trends and growth
The physical and practical limits on available natural energy resources: 
  • Variability
  • Scalability
  • Land use and location
  • Capital requirements
  • Other economic inputs
  • Energy Storage (characteristics, current usage and future solutions)
  • Reviewing the deployment barriers, challenges, costs and risks of the various renewable power solutions: Solar: Photovoltaics (PV & CPV) and CSP Wind Power (onshore & offshore)
  • Hydropower
  • Ocean Power (wave & tidal)
  • Geothermal Energy
  • Biopower (and other Bioenergy routes to power)
  • Large-scale vs. distributed (small-scale) power generation: applicability, impact on both energy systems and business models
The Economics of Power Projects
  • The factors determining profitability: energy resource vs. cost to convert vs. power sale price
  • Quantifying renewable power risks and their impacts on macro power delivery and individual project returns:
  • Resource risks, such as forecasting risks and sustainability
  • Technology risks and power conversion issues
  • Balancing costs and issues around back-up power generation and grid integration
  • Understanding the different focus of economic analysis from a project vs. a government perspective (and why each needs to understand the other)
Policy mechanisms for renewable power support:
  • Feed-in-Tariffs, plus changing ways to determine or award them (e.g. auctions and bids)
  • Obligations and Portfolio Standards Green Certificates & Obligations Certificates
  • Loan Guarantees
  • Tax Credits
  • Other
Levelised Cost of Electricity:
  • Understanding the variety of ways used to derive of LCOE; some simple, some complex 
  • Levelised cost and policy mechanisms such as Feed-in-Tariffs 
  • Relating LCOE to project cash flows and to other project measures such as cost per Watt, NPV, IRR and payback times 
  • Evaluating the factors which most impact LCOE; including project costs, energy generation and financing factors such as discount rates and debt/equity splits LCOE versus marginal cost and electricity price 
  • The dangers of interpreting others’ LCOE figures and its limitations as a metric: what it can and cannot tell about the value of a project
Factors Influencing the Future Growth of Renewable Power
  • Grid Parity:
  • Learning curves and trends in the cost of renewable power
  • What does Grid Parity mean, and is it a realistic target?
  • Small-scale vs. ulility-scale grid parity
New horizons in conventional energy:Shale-gas (and other emerging gas sources)
  • Coal, advanced coal and “clean” coal
  • Carbon Capture and Storage
  • The future of nuclear? (Current, Thorium and Fusion)
  • Studies into high-percentage renewable power: is 100% renewables possible?
Example studies
  • Public strategies and targets
  • Existing examples of challenges and limitations
To register click here.

Related Articles
US Government Support for Renewable Energy Projects
The Solar Industry at a Glance: Past Present and Future
Global Wind Energy at a Glance (China, EU, US)
US Wind Energy Doubles and Eclipses Natural Gas in 2012
Why Oil Prices Matter for Renewable Energy
Global Clean Energy Investment Sets Record
Renewable Energy Is Our Only Hope
Government Incentives are Growing Renewable Energy
Renewable Energy Surpasses Nuclear in the US

15 Institutions Offering 50 Green Certificate Programs

There is a large and growing number of certificate programs that are designed to meet the demand for a wide range of green skills. Unlike many other sustainability oriented degrees these certificate programs are often less time intensive. While many of these certificate programs are part of traditional academic environments like universities and colleges, others are part of online educational settings and are tailored to the schedules of working professionals. Here are 15 institutions and a broad cross section of 50 green certificate programs that they offer:
  1. Aquinas College has a Professional Certificate Program in Sustainable Business.
  2. Anaheim University offers an Online Graduate Certificate in Sustainable Management.
  3. San Diego State University College of Extended Studies offers professional Certificates in three sustainable areas: Green building, energy management and sustainable practices.
  4. Irvine Valley College is a community college that offers Zero Waste certification for people seeking green jobs.
  5. The European Energy Centre offers a course called Understanding Policies and Finances - Fast Track to a Renewable Energy Consultancy Job, which earns the successful student the internationally recognized Galileo Master Certificate
  6. University of Vermont’s sustainability certificate programs teach students how to address such areas as reducing waste and conserving energy, water and other natural resources.
  7. The Blue Planet Academy offers five green certificate programs: Agronomist, Electrical Engineer RES (Renewable Energy Sources), Environment Expert, Recyclist, Water Technologist.
  8. The University of Washington’s Professional and Continuing Education department offers a certificate in Green IT.
  9. The University of Washington offers a certificate in Sustainable Transportation.
  10. The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) offers specific certification for PV installers, PV technical sales and solar heating installers.
  11. There is also NABCEP certification for small wind installers.
  12. The Electronics Technicians Association (ETA) provides training and certification for PV Installers. They offer three levels of certification: Apprentice, Specialist, and Technician.
  13. ISSP offers a Sustainability Professionals Certificate. 
  14. Roof Integrated Solar Energy (RISE) offers a Certified Solar Roofing Professional (CSRP) credential for rooftop solar energy installation and maintenance.
  15. Green Education Online offers 21 very short duration green training modules that provide certificates upon completion:

  • Green Cleaning Specialist.
  • Green Germ Control Specialist.
  • Green Building for Health Care Professionals.
  • Green Building for Insurance Professionals.
  • Green Handyman and Weatherization Specialist.
  • Green Landscaping.
  • CSR- Corporate Social Responsibility/Green Business Practices.
  • Green Government Leader.
  • Green Certified Home Inspector.
  • Green Building for Mortgage Professionals- Level One Certification.
  • Green Building for Real Estate Professionals- Level One Certification.
  • Waste Management Coordinator.
  • Sustainability Planning Specialist.
  • Certified Sustainability Officer.
  • Introduction to Waste Management Concepts.
  • Green Government Leadership and Sustainability.
  • Introduction to Energy Efficient Mortgages.
  • Understanding Social Responsibility and Green Building for Lenders.
  • Introduction to Sustainability Planning.
  • Company Branding and Positioning in the Green Economy.
  • Waste Management for the Health Care Industry. 


  • © 2012, Richard Matthews. All rights reserved.

    Related Posts
    Top Ten Green Masters Degree Programs
    The Green Market Oracle Green School Series 2011
    The Green Market Oracle Green School Series 2010
    Searchable Environmental Education Resources
    Sierra's 2011 List of Cool Green Schools Points West
    The Princeton Review's 2012 Top Green Schools Honor Role
    Fiske's Top 10 Colleges for Environmental Education
    Top Five Green Master Degree Programs
    Online Green MBA Programs
    US Green MBA Program Directory
    World's Best Green MBA Programs
    Ashridge Masters in Sustainability and Responsibility
    Vermont Law School Online Environmen​tal Master’s Degree
    The University of Vermont's Advanced Certificates in Sustainability
    University's Masters Degree in Urban Sustainability
    Find Sustainable Education at GreenDegreeDirectory
    CareerOneStop’s Environmental Education Finder
    Green School Census
    The Sustainability Education Series from Green Education Online
    Green Education Online Training
    Green Training Modules From Green Education Online
    Building a Sustainability Strategy Online Course
    Social Business at Blue Planet Life
    Blue Planet Academy Green Certificate Programs
    Blue Planet Academy Environmental Training in the Developing World
    Hult International Business School Launches Master in Social Entrepreneurship
    Stony Brook University's Sustainability focused BA Degrees
    Sustainable Certificates from Irvine Valley College
    Harvard Corporate Sustainability Distance Learning Course
    Course Descriptions for Green Courses at San Diego State University College of Extended Studies
    Green Education at San Diego State University College of Extended Studies
    E-Learning Course on the Legal Frameworks of Sustainability
    The University of Washington’s Certificate in Green IT
    Green Memes and Schools
    Green Schools are Bridging the Knowledge Gap
    Sustainable Education is Key to Accessing the Green Economy
    Investing in Education is the Key to Developing the Green Economy
    Everblue Training Institute's Comprehensive Green Building Curriculum
    ISO Campus 14001 Training: Environmental Safety
    Sustainability Officer Courses in Australia (Sydney and Brisbane)

    Energy Storage & The Grid (Course)

    On Augtust 4th in London UK, Green Power Academy is offering a one day introductory course on the economic rationale for large-scale energy storage and the technology solutions. The highly accessible, informal and extremely interactive course will address future energy strategies, particularly as it concerns renewable power like solar and wind. The course will specifically deal with the critical importance of large scale energy storage. It will also deal with the financial balances affecting market growth and technological solutions.

    This course is designed for those with commercial, financial and business interests in the energy industry, and assumes no prior knowledge. All aspects, both economic and technological, are presented in clear language, making the course of value to a range of job functions including senior managers from power utilities; power producers; grid operators; policymakers; investors; technology vendors and other stakeholders.

    To download the brochure click here. To register click here.

    © 2012, Richard Matthews. All rights reserved.

    Related Posts
    Renewable Energy Storage
    The Crucial Role of Public Private Partnerships
    Electric Vehicles Increasingly Competitive
    Electric Vehicles Will Drive Demand for Lithium
    Factors Determining Adoption Rate of EVs
    Ford Partners with Google to Enhance Hybrid Efficiency
    GM's Solar Powered Charging Stations

    Geothermal Power Economics 101: Resources, Technologies & Economics (Course)

    This one day training course will take place On August, 3rd, 2012 in London, UK. This event is brought to you by Green Power Academy and is an introductory course intended for non-engineers. This course will cover the basics of geothermal power – the resource and the methods of harnessing it – along with its competitive positioning within the power and energy markets. In addressing the latter, the course will also briefly cover the fundamental concepts governing the supply and demand of power/energy, including the basics of power grids and the factors which determine popular economic measures such as levelised electricity cost (all with particular reference to geothermal as compared with other power sources, both fossil and renewable).

    The course is run in an informal and highly interactive manner which recognizes that there are no simple answers to many of the questions surrounding the economics of geothermal - rather a series of interconnected issues, many of which remain open to debate and change. No background level of either financial or technical knowledge is assumed and all concepts are clearly explained, making the course suitable for a wide variety of attendees.

    Geothermal Energy Resources & Applications

    •Different types of geothermal resource: locations, depths, temperatures, resource characteristics and sustainability issues.
    •The Geothermal market: differing direct-use (heat) and power applications, including a review of current market sizes, characteristics and case studies.
    •The fundamentals of power/energy markets and the role of geothermal within them, including: measurements and scales, power demand/supply and pricing, power plant types and competing energy sources.  

    Capturing and Exploiting Geothermal Energy

    •Comparing geothermal power plant designs, including flash steam, dry steam, binary and combined cycle: how they work, why they differ and where/when they are suitable.
    •Geothermal CHP, plus smaller-scale and distributed heat and/or power applications
    •Emerging technologies, including EGS - Enhanced geothermal (“hot dry rock”), mixed fluid and supercritical fluid cycles.
    •Case Studies of the different types of commercial plants and pilot projects.
    •Understanding limits on the sustainability of geothermal power generation.  

    GeoPower Economics

    •The key cost and investment issues surrounding geothermal power plants, including exploration, land requirements, plant development and ongoing operations.
    •What are the key risks and unknowns in GeoPower investments?
    •Levelised costs of GeoPower: identifying the most significant input variables and illustrating how each influences the economics of the project.
    •Geothermal power economics in comparison with both fossil fuel and renewable power sources: how each may fit into the future power mix.
    •The role of external factors in GeoPower economics, including regulatory policies and incentives.

    To register click here, to contact click here, to download the brochure click here.

    © 2012, Richard Matthews. All rights reserved.

    Related Posts
    Geothermal Energy Market Review and Future Prospects 2012
    Beowawe - Winner of the 2012 Geothermal Project of the Year
    East Africa Can Learn from Iceland's Geothermal Energy Industry
    US DOE Investing in Geothermal Research
    Energy Emissions Comparisons
    Geothermal Stock Review and Future Prospects 2010
    Geothermal Stock Review 2009

    Introduction to Solar PV (Course)

    Green Power Academy presents Introduction to Solar PV. This one day course will take place on August 2, in London, UK. The course will provide a solid introduction to photovoltaic technologies Including their economics and business case. The course objectives include understanding Solar PV power generation. It describes and illustrates geographic variations in solar resource, explains the various technologies and system components required to create a project and discusses the business case issues such as costs, competition and regulatory frameworks. Challenges (and solutions) in integrating solar into the grid on a large-scale are included as are the pros and cons of competing power generation options (both renewable and fossil).

    The course is run in an informal and highly interactive manner and is designed for those starting out in the solar business, policymakers needing to analyze solar PV relative to other options, or investors seeking more knowledge on which they can build to appraise future proposals. No background financial or technical knowledge is assumed and all concepts are clearly explained, making the course suitable for a wide variety of attendees from both within and beyond the solar industry. In addition to introducing the key fundamentals on the day, business case planning tools and resources are introduced which allow attendees to apply and expand on the course afterwards.  

    Key factors in the PV business case

    •Quantifying solar resources:
    ◦ Why location matters so much.
    ◦ Optimising installation layout and determining the value (or otherwise) of tracking solutions.
    ◦ Simple, free tools to estimate energy potential in different regions.
    •Regulatory supports such as Feed-in-Tariffs (FITs), tax incentives and carbon pricing.
    •The different competitive contexts of different markets and power applications
    •An introduction to electrical power markets: demand, supply and price.
    •Different types of power plant: how and why does solar compete?
    •Solar power variability:
    ◦ How much of a problem is it?
    ◦ The economic importance of generation time profile vs. price

    Understanding Solar PV Technology 

    •Jargon-buster: introducing some key scientific principles, terminologies and concepts.
    •Fundamentals of Solar Radiation, including energy available and the solar spectrum
     •How PV materials convert light to energy; how this limits efficiency and drives design improvements. •Silicon (mono- and polycrystalline, plus hybrid cells)
    •Thin-film (CdTe, CIGS, a-SI)
    •Multijunction and concentrator cells (e.g. III-V)
    •PV cell and module ratings vs. their real-world performance
    •Emerging technologies: their key features and state of development (Organics, Dyes, future thin-film etc.)

    Solar PV Balance of System Components

    •Arranging PV module arrays and how this impacts power and energy outputs
    •Inverters, including their performance and efficiency factors
    •Tracking systems, including installation and operational issues
    •Trends and future developments to reduce installation and BoS costs The Economics of Solar PV •Quantifying the cost of solar:
    ◦ Capital and Operational cost factors and examples - and why numbers vary so much.
    ◦ Influences such as market demand, raw materials supply, manufacturing capacity, cost/learning curves and other factors.
    ◦ Technology choice and its influence on other costs such as balance-of-system and land-use.
    •Levelized Cost of Electricity (LCOE):
    ◦ How is it calculated?
    ◦ How useful are studies of LCOE and what do they show?
    •Grid Parity: what does it mean and is it a useful measure?
    •Introducing both simple and comprehensive tools for modelling the finances of solar projects.

    To register click here, to contact click here, or to download the brochure click here.

    © 2012, Richard Matthews. All rights reserved.

    Related Posts
    Implications of US Duties on Chinese Solar
    Countervailing Duties on Chinese Solar Cells (Video)
    Outlook for the Chinese Solar Industry in 2012
    How the West can Capitalize on the Growth of Chinese Cleantech in 2012
    US Regains Lead from China as Clean Energy Leader
    US Solar Energy Review and 2012 Forecasts
    Renewable Energy in 2012: The Global Economic and Environmental Climate
    Will 2012 be the Best Year Ever For Clean-Tech Investment?
    Renewable Energy Is Our Only Hope
    India is the World Leader in Cleantech Investment Growth
    The EU Debt Crisis did Not Curb the Growth of Renewables in 2011
    Cleantech the Next Great Investment Opportunity

    NABCEP Sales Certification

    On July 16, 2012 the NABCEP Sales Certification training will be taking place at Atlantic Cape Community College, Mays Landing Campus East from 6pm – 9pm. The fee is $1,299 (Tuition $499, Materials $250, Lab $550). This NABCEP approved training is a PV Entry Level Exam based on a set of learning objectives developed by NABCEP Committee of PV subject matter experts. Concepts will include: Qualify the Customer; Site Analysis; Conceptual Design; Financial Costs, Incentives and Savings; Financial Benefit Analysis and Financing; Nonfinancial Benefit Analysis; Performance Analysis; and Preparing Proposals.
    For more information call Dharmesh Dave at 609-343-5658 to register or visit www.atlantic.edu/green

    © 2012, Richard Matthews. All rights reserved.

    Four Training Events From the Green Power Academy

    Here are four events taking place in London UK produced by the Green Power Academy. They will be taking place between the 13th and the 18th of July 2012. These four events involve renewable technologies, economics and financing. For more information and registration information see below:

    1. Renewable Power Technologies A 1-day introduction to the key technologies available to generate clean power. This event will take place on 13-July-2012.

    For more information or to register click here.

    2. Renewable Power Economics: A 1-day introduction to the factors which determine the business case for renewable power. This event will take place on 16-17-July-2012.

    For more information or to register click here.

    3. Renewable Project Planning & Financing: A 2-day comprehensive introduction to preparing, financing and presenting business plans for renewable energy projects. This event will take place on 16-18-July-2012.

    For more information or to register click here.

    4. Renewable Power Technologies: A 1-day introduction to the key technologies available to generate clean power. This event will take place on 18-July-2012.

    For more information or to register click here.

    © 2012, Richard Matthews. All rights reserved.

    Related Posts
    Renewable Energy in 2012: The Global Economic and Environmental Climate
    Renewable Energy Is Our Only Hope 
    How the West can Capitalize on the Growth of Chinese Cleantech in 2012
    Outlook for the Chinese Solar Industry in 2012
    India is the World Leader in Cleantech Investment Growth
    The EU Debt Crisis did Not Curb the Growth of Renewables in 2011
    UK Renewable Energy 2011 Overview
    UK Wind Energy
    Cuts to UK Solar FiTs Could Prove Deadly
    Cuts to UK Wind Power ROCs & FiTs
    The Implications of the Expiration of US Renewable Energy Subsidies
    Obama 2013 Budget Seeks to Make Renewable Tax Credits Permanent
    US Wind Energy Market Review and Forecasts for 2012
    US Solar Energy Review and 2012 Forecasts
    Geothermal Energy Market Review and Forecasts for 2012
    British Government to Lead the Green Economy
    Market Forces and the UK's Green Deal
    UK Government Investments in Efficiency and Renewable Energy
    Corporate Sustainability is Driving Green Businesses in the UK
    UK Renewable Energy 2011 Overview
    Cuts to UK Wind Power ROCs & FiTs
    UK Wind Energy
    Cuts to UK Solar FiTs Could Prove Deadly
    Scottish Wind Energy Can Power Europe
    The Growth of London's Green Economy
    The EU Debt Crisis did Not Curb the Growth of Renewables in 2011
    Sustainability and the European Super Grid

    Course on Environmental Litigation in Washington DC


    On the 20th to the 22nd of June a course will be held on environmental litigation in Washington DC. This advanced course of study, now in its 37th year, provides a unique opportunity for private and public-sector environmental lawyers to refine their litigation skills by understanding better how litigation problems, substantive environmental law, and science relate to each other.
    Why Attend?
    Freshen and sharpen skills you need to prevail in today’s environmental litigation
       •  Learn how to make litigation more efficient and effective, through cost control and litigation alternatives
       •  See demonstrations of typical environmental trial issues by experienced litigators
       •  Explore your litigation issues with faculty members in informal Clinical Discussion Sessions

    This advanced course of study, now in its 37th year, provides a unique opportunity for private and public-sector environmental lawyers to refine their litigation skills by understanding better how litigation problems, substantive environmental law, and science relate to each other.

    This year’s program focuses on:
       •  Evidentiary Issues Relating to Technical Data
       •  Electronic Discovery in Environmental Litigation
       •  Experts in Environmental Litigation
       •  Citizen Suits and Defenses against Them
       •  NEPA Litigation

    This practical course in environmental advocacy concentrates on the advanced skills necessary to prevail before administrative and judicial forums in the various environmental litigations, including CERCLA, NEPA, and the judicial review of agency action.

    During more than 19 hours of instruction, the course uses specifically-prepared materials, lectures, and faculty demonstrations. The faculty is drawn from some of the principal constituencies involved in environmental disputes: private firms representing plaintiffs or defendants, public-interest groups, environmental scientists, the Environmental Enforcement Section of the U.S. Department of Justice, and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. It also includes two sitting U.S. Magistrate Judges, a former U.S. Magistrate Judge, and a leading academic. The faculty members who appear as expert witnesses in the demonstrations also provide valuable insights on the relationship between lawyers and technical consultants and witnesses.

    A hallmark of this program over the years has been the way the registrants and the faculty have interacted, not just informally, but especially during program sessions. “Clinical Discussions” allow registrants to explore their particular litigation problems with faculty members on an informal basis. Time is reserved throughout the program for the faculty to address registrants’ questions and to assist them in any other ways that might render the course more productive for their practices.
    What You Will Learn
    The course starts with an analysis of evidentiary issues in environmental cases and concludes with a discussion of lessons learned from the “big” cases; along the way, it explores the use of demonstrative evidence, discovery problems, and the examination of experts. The course does not concentrate on substantive law; rather, the procedural problems in all environmental litigation, both public and private, receive attention in the context of discovery, expert proof, and citizen suit litigation. For example, the admission of expert testimony under Daubert and its progeny is reviewed both in a procedural context and in the proof of specific subjects, such as in the simulation of a trial involving the siting of an alternative energy facility.

    In addition to the problems inherent in plenary litigation, difficult issues continue to arise under NEPA and other informal agency decisions, such as those arising under federal and state wetland laws. The procedural and associated issues relating to these actions receive attention throughout the program. Ethical issues, some of which are unique to environmental litigation, are explored from a practical litigation standpoint.

    This year’s other special topics include:

       •  Judicial Review of Agency Action
       •  Effective Advocacy in Air, Water, and Hazardous Waste Litigation
       •  Applications for TROs and Preliminary Injunctions
       •  Current and Emerging Enforcement Trends and Responses
       •  Anatomy of a Hazardous Material Litigation
       •  Trial of an Alternative Energy Siting Case
       •  Ethics in Environmental Litigation
    For more information or to register click here