SketchUp for Solar PV Systems

Online Short Course – Start Today!

SketchUp for solar PV systems is a complete course for you to create professional 3D models and 2D drawings in one day!

SketchUp by Trimble is arguably the most widely used computer aided design software in the world today.  It’s offered in free and paid versions, and allows users to draw and design in 3D.

This course provides step-by-step video instruction for drafting a commercial solar PV system in SketchUp.

You will learn to:

• Use Nearmap, Google maps and Sketchup’s inbuilt location function.
• Use Sketchup tools to create a realistic view of existing buildings including all features of the roof.
• Correctly place PV modules on the roof.
• Perform Shading analysis to optimise your system design.
• Create AC and DC SLDs to include in your reports.
• Create professional site plans and string layouts.
• Use the flyover video tool to impress your clients.
• Export your SketchUp data to use in AutoCAD and PVsyst.

You will also have a quiz at the end of each chapter to assess your knowledge.

Is this course for you?

This course is ideal for students with prior solar design knowledge moving beyond residential solar designs. This course won’t teach you how to design solar PV systems.

This course uses SketchUp Pro which can be downloaded for a free 30 day trial or purchased here. It is possible to complete this course without a SketchUp licence. However, we highly recommend that students have access to the SketchUp Pro or Studio full licence or trial version.

This course is eligible for 20 CPD points with the Solar Accreditation Australia (SAA) and is valid until 30 July 2026.