SMA America, Inc. has announced the expansion of its educational initiative aimed at supporting current and prospective solar industry professionals. The SMA Solar Academy has increased its class offerings to include 11 seminars on photovoltaic systems and sales.

ROCKLIN, Calif., Sept. 15, 2009—SMA America, Inc. has announced the expansion of its educational initiative aimed at supporting current and prospective solar industry professionals. The SMA Solar Academy has increased its class offerings to include 11 seminars on photovoltaic systems and sales, most of which will qualify for NABCEP (North American Board Certified Energy Practitioners) continuing education credit.

The new curriculum consists of a broad range of classes covering grid and off grid products, commercial systems, communication devices, sales and marketing, code compliance and installation best practices. Each course is designed to meet the demands of increasingly complex industry requirements and provide a level of technical detail sufficient for both beginners and experienced professionals.

"By providing educational opportunities to solar installers, SMA is demonstrating its commitment to not only our customers, but the solar industry as a whole." said Jurgen Krehnke, president and general manager of SMA America. "We recognize that a well trained solar workforce results in higher quality installations and an improved overall customer experience."

The Solar Academy offers educational seminars at the SMA America headquarters in Rocklin, Calif. as well as at rotating sites all over North America throughout the year. The first of the new class offerings will be available beginning in October, while the remainder will be rolled out in the following months. Prospective attendees can view and register for upcoming sessions on the SMA America website.

The New Solar Academy Courses:

Grid Interactive Classes
* Introduction to SMA Products
* Sunny Boy 1
* Sunny Boy 2
* Sunny Central

Off Grid Classes
* Sunny Island 1
* Sunny Island 2

Communications Classes
* Communications
* WebBox
* Revenue Grade Metering

General Education Classes
* Introduction to PV (Will not qualify for NABCEP credit)

Non-Technical Classes
* Sales and Marketing (Will not qualify for NABCEP credit)


About SMA America, Inc.

SMA America, Inc. is the U.S. subsidiary of SMA Solar Technology AG, based in Germany. SMA is the world leader in solar inverter technology and manufacturing with divisions in 10 countries on four continents. SMA is committed to its leadership role, offering exceptional value with the most efficient and reliable solar inverters in the industry. SMA takes special pride in promoting renewable energy solutions at all levels through education, information and support for the general public and solar installers, as well as for small and large businesses worldwide. For more information, call 916 625 0870 or visit www.SMA-America.com.