Solar Project Design Experience at HCB Solar

I was responsible for residential solar project design at HCB Solar, based in Newcastle, Australia, while concurrently pursuing my Master's in Solar Energy at UNSW. Working part-time, under the guidance of Luke Williams, a licensed solar designer who mentored me and then verified my engineering work to support sales and installation of a range of different residential solar systems.

Scope of Work:

• System Design: Developing system designs based on product specifications and site parameters, including the number of phases and roof geometry.
• Technical Calculations: Performing voltage drop calculations and cable sizing in accordance with relevant standards.
• Compliance Assurance: Ensuring compliance with standards, such as battery placement rules.
• Documentation: Producing Single Line Diagrams (SLDs) of the system.
• Grid Connection Applications: Handling grid application processes with energy distributors like Ausgrid.
• Project Types:
  • Designed over 300 residential solar projects (off-grid and on-grid).
  • With and without batteries, including AC and DC coupling.
  • Worked with leading brands like Enphase, Tesla, and Sonnen.


• Inverter Knowledge:

  Utilized a variety of inverters including:

  • Micro-inverters (Enphase)
  • Inverters with optimizers (SolarEdge)
  • String-inverters (SMA, Fronius)


• Documentation and Approval:
  • Produced Single Line Diagrams (SLD) for each system.
  • Managed grid connection applications with distributors like Ausgrid and Essential Energy.


• Collaboration:
  • Collaborated with electricians on-site for installation and managing any last minute changes
  • Liaised with sales team for any queries during the sales process.