What to Expect

Graduates of NAIT's Alternative Energy Technology diploma will possess a solid technical knowledge of solar, geothermal, wind, biofuel, fuel cell, co-generation and small hydro system applications, as well as their systematic integration. The knowledge and skills acquired are needed to support and promote Canada's growing sustainable energy industry.

Classroom & Study Hours

Course delivery is based on the classroom/lab model. Classroom lecture courses are usually 1 - 3 hours long. Hands-on laboratory work complements the lecture material. Both lectures and labs are supplemented by in-the-field learning experiences. Students are expected to attend all classes and labs to permit evaluation by instructors and to facilitate learning.

Students can expect to:

• spend, on average, 27 hours per week attending classes
• spend, on average, an additional 25 - 30 hours per week studying and completing assignments outside of scheduled class times
• complete 12 hours of corporate citizenship for the program and community partners
• attend a weekend field trip (overnight camping) as part of ALTE2203 

Facilities

The Alternative Energy Technology program is housed in NAIT's Alternative Energy Centre on Main Campus. This centre includes:

• a classroom with a computer at each station.
• an attached laboratory with state-of-the-art equipment for demonstrating, testing and measuring alternative energy generation and storage. 
• a rooftop meteorological station, broadcasting live NAIT weather, 24/7.

Alternative Energy Centre

NAIT’s Alternative Energy Centre contains a lab with state-of-the-art equipment for hands-on experience with alternative energy generation and storage. Learning will be enhanced by a wind turbine, roof-mounted solar panels and full-scale working geothermal units, which will generate energy and be recorded and incorporated into lab activities.

Lab Features

Learning is enhanced by

• full-scale working geothermal unit in the laboratory
• a 2.4 kW wind turbine, north of the alternative energy building
• roof-mounted solar PV and solar thermal panels
• a meteorological station
• micro fly wheel system
• photobio reactor
• 10 kW Yamar Co-Gen
• Micro hydro pumped storage system

The energy generated will be recorded and incorporated in the laboratory activities and used to provide some of the power to operate the Centre. Information from the meteorological station will be used to assess environmental conditions and suitability for wind or solar power generation.

Is This Program For You?

This program will appeal to people with a(n):

• entrepreneurial spirit 
• strong mechanical aptitude
• desire to effect change
• aptitude for describing systems in mathematical terms
• commitment to life-long learning and the willingness to stay current in a fast-paced and evolving industry

Student Experience

Students will acquire skills (certifications) in:

• calculating thermal and electrical loads
• working with electrical and mechanical systems
• energy management system design and integration
• computer based energy modeling and drafting using MS Excel, AutoCAD, RETScreen, and HOMER.
• reading and applying codes, regulations, and standards
• safety certifications including First Aid, CSTS and Fall Protection.
• project management (certification in Project Leadership)
• life cycle analysis
• time management
• communication, presentations, and networking