Flathead Valley Community College has announced the addition of a new course on solar energy to the spring 2018 academic catalog.

The course, entitled “Introduction to Photovoltaic Systems,” will offer students interested in learning how to install and control photovoltaic systems (or solar power system) the opportunity to engage in a class that comprises hands-on experience, labs and lectures.

In addition focusing on grid-direct photovoltaic systems, the course will also cover material crucial to understanding all types of systems as well as the economics and viability of photovoltaic systems as compared to other energy systems.

Taught by William Gross of Gross Electric and FVCC Electrical Technology instructor Carol Vincent, students will also implement their knowledge to grid-tie a pole-mount solar array with a backup battery to offset a portion of the total power consumption used by the college’s agriculture building.

The four-credit class will take place from Jan. 26 until May 11 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Fridays.

Tuition and fees for the course include a small solar powered system for each student to use with a recreational vehicle, boat or at home.

In order to register for the class, students must first be admitted to FVCC for the spring semester. The deadline to apply for admission is Jan. 16.

For more information about the class, contact Vincent at cvincent@fvcc.edu.

For information about applying for admission to FVCC and registering for the class, contact Cynthia French at (406) 756-3604 or visit www.fvcc.edu/apply.

Reporter Mary Cloud Taylor can be reached at 758-4459 or mtaylor@dailyinterlake.com.