Program Overview
The Renewable Energies Technician program at Niagara College is a two-year diploma program that prepares students for careers in the renewable energy industry. Students learn about solar, wind, and geothermal energy systems, as well as electrical concepts, HVAC systems, and energy auditing. The program includes hands-on practical experience and prepares graduates for high-demand careers in the Niagara Region and throughout Ontario.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Are you passionate about contributing to the development of renewable energy sources for a more sustainable environment? As a Renewable Energies Technician, you install, maintain, and repair equipment that provides renewable energy power sources including solar, wind, and geothermal.
Highlights:
- Experienced instructors, modern equipment and spacious lab facilities enable optimal learning including hands-on practical experience.
- Enjoy a wide variety of career options in renewable energy generation.
- High demand for graduates in the Niagara Region and throughout Ontario.
Outline:
The program is a 2-year diploma program delivered at the Welland campus.
Term one (2024 Fall):
- COMM1120 - Introduction to Writing and Communicating in the Workplace (3 credits)
- CTEC1240 - AutoCAD Fundamentals (3 credits)
- ELEC1128 - Electrical Concepts I (5 credits)
- ENRG1101 - Energy Conservation Building Construction (3 credits)
- ENRG1100 - Energy Auditing (3 credits)
- MATH1134 - Mathematics I for the School of Technology Studies (4 credits)
Term two (2025 Winter):
- ENRG1102 - Energy Regulations (3 credits)
- ELEC1228 - Electrical Concepts II (5 credits)
- MATH1242 - Mathematics for Renewable Energies Technicians (2 credits)
- ENRG1106 - HVAC Systems (4 credits)
- ENRG1107 - Energy Audit Project (3 credits)
- COMM1430 - Technical Communications (3 credits)
Term three (2025 Fall):
- COMM1308 - Understanding Society: Communication Model (3 credits)
- ENRG1241 - Electrical Power Systems (4 credits)
- ENRG1204 - Energy Storage & Grid Connections (3 credits)
- ENRG1202 - Solar Energy Transfer Systems (3 credits)
- ENRG1203 - Wind Energy and Wind Turbines (3 credits)
- ENRG1205 - Geothermal Systems (4 credits)
Term four (2026 Winter):
- ELNC1427 - Industrial Controls (PLC) (5 credits)
- ENRG1211 - Renewable Energies Design Project (3 credits)
- ENRG1212 - Solar Installation (3 credits)
- ENRG1213 - Wind Turbine Installation (3 credits)
- ENRG1216 - Basic Hydraulic Fluid Power Systems (3 credits)
Learning Outcomes Term: 1244:
- Analyze and solve design and other complex technical problems and complete work related to energy systems engineering by applying the principles of engineering, mathematics and science.
- Design and analyze mechanical components, processes, and systems through the application of engineering principles and practices.
- Design, analyze, build, and troubleshoot passive AC and DC, electronic, logic and digital circuits.
- Apply principles of mechanics and fluid mechanics to the design, analysis and control of electromechanical systems.
- Install, maintain, operate, troubleshoot and repair power engineering systems by applying principles of science, mathematics, mechanical, electrical, electronic and fluid power engineering.
- Analyze, interpret, and produce electrical, electronic, and mechanical drawings and other related technical documents to appropriate engineering standards.
- Fabricate mechanical components and assemblies by applying workshop skills and knowledge of basic shop practices in accordance with applicable codes and safety practices.
- Apply advanced building, architectural, mechanical, electrical and electronics engineering technology to assist with the construction, maintenance, operation and repair of buildings, occupant comfort systems and building energy management systems.
- Contribute to the sizing and design of generation systems for residential, commercial and industrial sites by applying knowledge of electrical, mechanical and control systems in accordance with safe practices outlined by utilities, building codes, federal and provincial regulations.
- Perform all work in accordance with relevant law, policies, codes, regulations, safety procedures, and standard shop practices.
- Recognize the environmental, economic, legal, safety, and ethical implications of energy engineering projects.
Careers:
- Bio-mass and bio-fuel energy production
- Blade inspection and repair
- Clean energy project management
- Engineering, consulting and design firms integrating clean and green energy
- Geothermal installation, operation and maintenance
- Green energy building retrofit, management and distribution
- Solar energy farm operations and maintenance
- Solar panel manufacturing and installation
- Wind farm construction
- Wind turbine electrical and mechanical repair, blade inspection and repair, maintenance and operation
Other:
- Students are responsible for their own transportation in order to complete program requirements which may not be readily accessible by public transportation.
- Students are responsible for ensuring that they have a Microsoft Windows 10 based laptop system that meets or exceeds the following general personal computer technology requirements:
- A laptop system running on an updated Microsoft Windows 10 operating system.
- Minimum 256GB SSD storage and 8 GB memory.
- An integrated or peripheral video camera, microphone and speaker system.
- Reliable internet connectivity with Broadband capabilities (a minimum download speed of 5 Mbps) is recommended.
- Successful installation and activation of both AutoCAD and Multisim found on the Brightspace Homeroom page (after timetable selection). Academic software for your courses (supported under the Microsoft Windows 10 operating system) will be made available for download and remote use. Access will also be provided to remote high performance computer labs if software downloads are not feasible.
- All costs associated with program requirements are the responsibility of the student.
Niagara College Canada
Overview:
Niagara College is a public college located in the Niagara Region of Canada. It is known for its focus on experiential learning and offers over 130 full-time postsecondary programs across 14 schools of study. The college is recognized as a leader in applied research and innovation, having been named Canada's top research college twice in recent years.
Services Offered:
Niagara College provides a wide range of services to its students, including:
Student Services:
Offers support in areas such as health, wellness, accessibility, career and co-op services, and Indigenous education.Libraries and Learning Commons:
Provides access to resources and support for academic success.Athletics and Student Engagement:
Offers opportunities for students to participate in varsity athletics, intramurals, recreation activities, and various student clubs and organizations.Campus Services:
Includes dining options, parking and transit information, residence and housing options, and safety and community resources.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Niagara College offers a vibrant campus experience with opportunities for students to connect with their peers, engage in extracurricular activities, and develop their skills through hands-on learning. The college has two campuses, Welland and Daniel J. Patterson Campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake, both offering a range of amenities and facilities.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Experiential Learning:
Niagara College is known for its emphasis on practical, hands-on learning, providing students with real-world experience and valuable skills.Applied Research and Innovation:
The college is a leader in applied research, offering students opportunities to work alongside faculty and staff researchers on projects with real businesses.Strong Industry Connections:
Niagara College has strong ties to local industries, providing students with access to internships, co-op placements, and career opportunities.Vibrant Campus Community:
The college fosters a welcoming and supportive environment for students, with a variety of clubs, organizations, and events to engage in.Academic Programs:
Niagara College offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Diploma Programs:
Provide students with specialized skills and knowledge in a particular field.Graduate Certificate Programs:
Offer advanced training and professional development opportunities.Bachelor's Degree Programs:
Provide students with a comprehensive education in a chosen field.Other:
Learning Enterprises:
Niagara College operates a number of learning enterprises, such as restaurants, a dental clinic, a hair salon, a spa, a winery, a brewery, a distillery, and a greenhouse. These enterprises provide students with real-world experience and generate revenue to support student learning.Land Acknowledgement:
Niagara College acknowledges the traditional lands of the Anishinaabe and Haudenosaunee peoples and is committed to promoting reconciliation and Indigenous rights.Entry Requirements:
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD), or equivalent including the following required course(s):
- English – any Grade 12 (C) or (U), or equivalent
- Mathematics – any Grade 12 (C) or (U), or equivalent
- Recommended Courses and/or Skills:
- Communications Technology – Grade 11 (M) or Grade 12 (M)
- Computer Engineering – Grade 11 (M) or Grade 12 (M)
- Construction Technology – Grade 11 (C) or Grade 12 (C)
- Physics – Grade 11 (U) or Grade 12 (C) or (U)
- Technological Design – Grade 11 (M) or Grade 12 (M)