On-demand Trainings. Start Anytime.
Solar Energy International (SEI) was founded in 1991 as a non-profit educational organization based in Paonia, CO. Through the years, trends and technologies come and go but SEI’s mission remains the same today as it was when we began: to empower people around the world through the education of sustainable practices. SEI offers Online, Classroom, Hands-on Labs, On-Demand/Continuing Education, Cursos en Espanol, Women’s Courses.
OSSIA members and their employees are eligible for a 100 discount on registration fees. Email (outreach[at]oseia.org) for the code, enter code before checking out, no refunds will be given.
On-demand Training
RE100: FREE Introduction to Renewable Energy Online course: RE100 is a free course that covers the basics of renewable energy, and is a great introduction for those new to the field, those who are looking to make a career change, or those who just want to learn more about energy from the sun, wind, and water, energy efficiency, and the basics of electricity. Register here.
ER100: Introduccion a las Energias Renovables. EN LÍNEA: ¡CURSO GRATUITO! Las fuentes de energía renovable están en todo nuestro alrededor: agua, viento, sol… cada día más personas las utilizan como parte de su vida diaria. Las utilizamos para calentar nuestros hogares en épocas frías, para operar nuestros electrodomésticos, ducharnos con agua caliente, irrigar campos con agua para agricultura, etc. Register here.
SHOL101: Solar Thermal Training- Solar How Water Design and Installation Register here.
Online Courses
- PVOL101: Solar Training. Solar Electric Design and Installation (Grid-Direct) Register here
- FVOL101: Diseño e Instalación Solar Eléctrica (Sistemas Interactivos) En Línea Registrarse aquí
- PVOL202: Solar Training. Advanced PV System Design and the NEC (Grid-Direct) Register here
- FVOL202: Diseño Fotovoltaico Avanzado y el NEC (Sistemas Interactivos) – En Línea Registrarse aquí
- PVOL203: Solar Training. PV System Fundamentals (Battery-based) Register here
- FVOL203: Fundamentos de Sistemas Fotovoltaicos Basados en Baterias. Registrarse aquí
- PVOL206: Solar Training. Solar Business and Technical Sales. Register here
- PVOL303: Solar Training. Advanced PV Multimode and Microgrid Design (Battery-Based) Register here
- PVOL304: Solar Training. Advanced PV Stand-Alone System Design (Battery-based) Register here
- PVOL350: Solar Training. PV Systems. Tools and Techniques for Operations and Maintenance Register here
PV201 Solar PV Installer
If you plan on working in the solar industry in an installation role, you need this training!
This course will teach you how to install solar panels and the balance of components, including inverters, charge controllers, and battery banks for grid-tied and off-grid systems.
Learn How to Install Solar Panels
Once you’ve gained a solid understanding of solar energy principles, you’ll be ready for this solar panel installation course that takes a deeper dive into system components and installation technique. We’ll teach you how to actually install a solar PV system. i.e., the nuts and bolts of attaching the solar modules to the roof, wiring, installing electrical components, and evaluating the performance of the finished product.
Solar Installer Certifications: What You Need To Know
Because the solar energy industry is growing so rapidly, so too is the demand for qualified solar PV installers. In fact, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that employment for solar electric installers will grow by 52% between 2020 and 2030.
As the market expands, it will be essential to train installers and ensure they have the required licenses to perform solar installations. So, the first order of business is determining what licenses are required to install solar PV systems in your state. Often, an electrical license is mandatory. But, these requirements vary widely by state and localities and are critical to understand and follow to operate legally. Also, some rebate programs may have additional requirements for PV contractors.
Let’s examine the various solar certifications available in the industry.
What Certifications Are Available To Solar PV Installers?
The leading certifications specific to solar instal lers are through the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). The organization offers a variety of certifications that are designed for solar system installation and sales professionals.
Some states require NABCEP certification for solar installers. In other areas, NABCEP certification is optional but an excellent way to build a resume, earn trust from potential customers, and validate knowledge. This guide will provide an overview of the different programs available; we recommend you explore your specific state and local requirements.
PV Installation Professional (PVIP) Board Certification
PV Installation Professional Board Certification is considered the gold standard for PV installers, and this well-known professional certification has been available since 2003. Therefore, it is widely recognized in the renewable energy industry. This certification shows knowledge of PV design, installation, operations, commissioning, and maintenance and requires experience in the field and passing an exam. It is ideal for installers who want to take a leadership role or own a solar installation business.
As of this writing, the requirements for obtaining a PVIP certification were 10 hours of OSHA Outreach Training Program for the Construction Industry, 58 hours of solar training courses, passing a written exam, and fulfilling the installation experience requirement.
PV Installer Specialist (PVIS) Board Certification
The Installer Specialist Board Certification requires knowledge of solar installation but isn’t as focused on other aspects of the project, such as commissioning and maintenance knowledge as the PVIP. It is ideal for someone that wants to be an installer but not necessarily work on other aspects of solar power projects.
Obtaining a PVIS certification requires 10 hours of OSHA Outreach Training Program for the Construction Industry, 24 hours of solar training, passing a certification exam focused on installation, and fulfilling the installation experience requirement.
PV Technical Sales (PVTS) Board Certification
This is an excellent option for solar professionals that want to work on the sales side of the industry or as an application engineer, site assessor, performance analyst, or financial analyst. The Technical Sales Certification requires the ability to qualify leads, conduct a solar site and performance analysis, and understand the incentives available for solar energy systems. However, unlike some of the other NABCEP certifications, it does not require expertise in solar installation.
The PVTS certification requires 10 hours of OSHA construction industry training, solar training, passing a written exam, and experience selling solar systems.
OSHA Construction Safety
These courses and certification programs are designed to prevent injury on the job. For example, the OSHA 10-Hour for the Construction Industry course is popular with solar panel installers and covers hazard identification, avoidance, control, and prevention at construction sites. In addition, many OSHA courses are available online, eliminating the need to travel.
Electrical License
Each state issues these licenses, and the requirements vary. Usually, there are different levels of licensed electricians, and becoming licensed requires passing a written exam and completing a certain number of hours of relevant experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About Solar Installer Certifications
In this section, we’ll cover some of the most frequently asked questions about solar certifications.
Why Are Certifications Important In The Solar Industry?
Unfortunately, not all solar installers are reputable or understand solar installation basics and the National Electrical Code. NABCEP certification allows installers a way to distinguish their knowledge to customers to earn trust.
In addition, motivated individuals can advance their careers and differentiate themselves from other applicants by obtaining certification. For example, it’s ideal for lead solar installers to have earned NABCEP certification.
What Are The Similarities And Differences Of Certifications Vs. Licenses?
In general, states require licensing to perform certain types of work, while certifications are voluntary. State and local governments created contractor licenses to impose specific standards and protect consumer safety. Unfortunately, many licenses are limited to a particular state. This makes it difficult for installers to move because their license may not be valid in a different state. One benefit of NABCEP certification is that it is nationally recognized and is not limited to a specific state or locality.
What Is The Difference Between The NABCEP PV Installation Professional And PV Installer Specialist Certification?
The PVIP certification has been around much longer and requires a broader range of knowledge, including maintenance and commissioning. It also has a greater training requirement and is a good idea for a lead installer or the owner of a PV company. By contrast, the PVIS certification focuses just on the installation end of things and has a lower training requirement.
However, there are also many similarities. For example, the exam covers similar information related to solar installation, and they both require an OSHA 10 card and solar industry experience. Also, both PVIP and PVIS certification are available through the NABCEP.
How Often Do Installers Need To Renew Their Certifications?
NABCEP certifications are valid for several years and then require recertification. The PVTS, PVIS, and PVIP certifications must be renewed after 3 years and have additional continuing education training requirements.
What Other Certifications And Courses Exist That Could Benefit Solar Installers?
A variety of community colleges, 4-year colleges, and universities offer accredited classes and degree programs for solar installers and renewable energy professionals. Some of these programs are very specialized and designed for a specific aspect of the industry, such as solar farm development or management. If you want to build your knowledge in a certain aspect of the solar industry, examine college programs. Often, there are online courses, which can eliminate the need to travel. In addition, some solar organizations offer hands-on training opportunities.
How Can Solar Certifications Shape Hiring New Employees?
Owners of solar companies may struggle to find qualified solar installers and often need to train new hires. Applicants with related certifications distinguish themselves from other candidates by showing a certain amount of knowledge and experience.
Also, having employees with certifications can help solar companies stand out in the market by going above and beyond what is required. Unfortunately, NABCEP-certified professionals are in high demand and are often difficult to find. Often companies pay for their employees to seek certification.
Another helpful strategy when hiring new employees is to look for trades professionals with related experience. For example, roofers often have transferable skills and are likely comfortable working at higher heights. Such experience may make it easier to train new hires and turn entry-level installers into experts more quickly.
Solar PV Installers
As the world becomes more conscious of environmental issues, many people are turning to solar energy as an alternative to traditional power sources. Solar photovoltaic (PV) panels are an excellent way to harness the power of the sun and reduce your carbon footprint. However, installing solar panels is no small feat. It’s a significant investment, so you want to make sure that you choose the right team for the job. Whether you’re a homeowner or a business owner, finding the best solar PV installers is critical to the success of your project. We’ll take a closer look at how to choose the best team for your home or business. We’ll discuss the factors you should consider when selecting an installer, and we’ll provide you with tips to help you make an informed decision. So, let’s dive in and discover how to find the perfect solar PV installers for your needs!
Before we discuss how to choose the best solar PV installers, let’s talk about why you should consider solar energy in the first place. There are many benefits to using solar energy, including:
– Reducing Your Carbon Footprint: Solar energy is a clean and renewable source of energy that doesn’t emit any greenhouse gases. By using solar energy, you can significantly reduce your carbon footprint and help to combat climate change.
– Lowering Your Energy Bills: Once you’ve installed solar panels, you’ll be generating your own electricity, which means you’ll be less reliant on traditional power sources. This can lead to significant savings on your energy bills, especially over the long-term.
– Increasing Your Property Value: Installing solar panels can increase the value of your property. According to a study by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, homes with solar panels sell for an average of 4.1% more than homes without them.
Now that we’ve talked about the benefits of solar energy, let’s discuss how to choose the best solar PV installers for your home or business. There are several factors you should consider when selecting an installer, including:
### Check for Certifications and Licenses
One of the first things you should do when choosing a solar PV installer is to check for certifications and licenses. A reputable installer will have the necessary certifications and licenses to operate in your area. In the United States, the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is the most widely recognized certification for solar PV installers. You can also check with your state’s licensing board to ensure that the installer is licensed to operate in your area.
Installing solar panels is a complex process that requires skill and experience. When choosing an installer, you should look for a company with a proven track record of success. Ask about their experience installing solar panels and how long they’ve been in business. A company with a long history of successful installations is likely to have the expertise and resources to handle your project.
### Quality of Equipment and Materials
The quality of the equipment and materials used in your solar panel installation is critical to the success of your project. You should look for an installer that uses high-quality equipment and materials from reputable manufacturers. Ask about the brands they use and do your research to ensure that they’re reputable and reliable.
One of the best ways to gauge the quality of a solar PV installer is to read reviews and testimonials from previous customers. Look for reviews on the company’s website, social media pages, and third-party review sites like Yelp and Google. Pay attention to both positive and negative reviews to get a well-rounded view of the company.
### Cost and Financing Options
Installing solar panels can be a significant investment, so it’s important to consider the cost and financing options. Look for an installer that provides transparent pricing and offers financing options to help you manage the cost. Some installers may also offer incentives like rebates and tax credits that can help to offset the cost of your installation.
Once you’ve narrowed down your list of potential installers, it’s time to start comparing them. Here are some factors to consider when comparing solar PV installers:
– Experience: Look for a company with a long history of successful installations.
– Quality of Equipment and Materials: Make sure that the installer uses high-quality equipment and materials from reputable manufacturers.
The proposed topics are:
- Introduction to Renewable energy and Photo-voltaic (PV)
- Basics of Electricity
- Solar Cells
- Solar PV Modules
- Basics of Batteries
- Basics of Charge Controller
- Installation and Troubleshooting of Standalone Solar PV Systems
- Installation of Solar PV Power Plants
- Plant Operation and Maintenance.
Admission Notice – Solar Installer for the academic year 2023-24.
IISE is offering Solar Panel Installation Courses for the academic year 2023-24. This course for Solar Energy system installer is specifically designed for working professionals in the solar sector who are looking to upgrade their skills profile as per the latest industry standards.
Program Fees
If paid in full by the student, the total fee for the course is Rs 7,999/- (Rupees Seven Thousand Nine Hundred Ninety-Nine Thousand only).
Payment by monthly EMI
Students can also pay the fees through Easy Monthly Installments subject upon eligibility. This facility is arranged with our banking partner. Details of the same will be shared with shortlisted candidates only.
Job Placement Assistance:
We have a dedicated job placement cell for our students. IISE students are recognized throughout the industry both for private and government jobs. The Solar sector is constantly looking for Solar Energy system installer to fill up the technical roles who have successfully completed the Solar Installer ITI course.
Course Equivalency :
This course is equivalent to the following courses below.
Solar technician course in India, Solar Technician training, Solar Technician ITI course, Government solar training 2020, Government certificate course in solar Energy, Solar certificate course.
Step one:
Admission for the Solar installer will start on 08th March 2023.
All the students in our inquiry database will be emailed first and given a chance to take admission on a first come first basis.
To know more Please check the FAQ Tab on this page
Syllabus for to fill up the Technician roles
We ensure solar technicians are equipped with the know-how and best practices to install solar plants, which provides end customers with an assurance that they will receive a high-quality installation. The tailored certification training puts you at the forefront of best practices.
Those completing Solar training can find employment in the nodal agencies of the Ministry of Non-conventional Energy Sources, voluntary agencies, and other organizations promoting the technology at district and block levels as a Solar Energy system installer.
Entrepreneurial opportunities are also available in terms of opening shops for spare parts, servicing, and sale of solar devices.
The information above reflects the currently intended course structure and module details. Updates may be made on an annual basis and revised details will be published through Program Specifications ahead of each academic year. The regulations governing this course are available on our website.
Payment link for the course – Click here
Personal Benefits
Professionals who participate in this Solar Energy System – Installation and Storage course can benefit in the following ways:
- Learn everything on Solar Modules, Optimisers (DC/DC converters), Junction Boxes, Inverters, Solar Meters
- Regulate the optimum panel placement for Solar PV
- Calculate efficiency losses due to equipment
- Calculate Solar Array size
- Establish and select the correct apparatuses for the Solar PV system
- Compute Peak Sun Hours for any location in the world!
- Control if the Roof Pitch and Azimuth of a property is good for a Solar System
- Study Solar Cells Chemistry
Who Should Attend?
This program is intended for people who are currently working in or looking for employment in the renewable energy business, including pupils in renewable energy programs, workers at an early stage in their career, experienced specialists who are offering renewable energy products/services, as well as those who lack a professional certification or degree in solar energy.
It is perfect for beginners with zero solar experience but is also for experienced solar professionals who want to enhance their skills and knowledge. Engineers, Solar Sales Professionals, Entrepreneurs, Solar Enthusiasts or anyone wanting to learn the fundamentals of Solar Photovoltaic energy can also benefit from this course.
Course Outline
MODULE 1: HISTORY OF SOLAR
MODULE 2: TYPES OF SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS
- Solar Electric / Photovoltaic Systems
- Solar Thermal Systems
- Off-Grid Applications
- Grid-Tied Applications
MODULE 3: EVALUATING THE SOLAR RESOURCE
- Electromagnetic Spectrum
- Solar Irradiance
- Atmospheric Effects on Solar Radiation
- Latitudinal Effects on Solar Radiation
MODULE 4: LOAD ANALYSIS
MODULE 5: SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEMS
- Components
- Mounting Options
- Grid Interconnectivity
- Electronic Basics
- The Next Generation of Cheap Solar Cells
MODULE 6: SOLAR HOT WATER SYSTEMS
- Collector Types
- Distribution Types
- Storage Types
- System Sizing
- Maintenance
MODULE 7: SYSTEM MAINTENANCE
- Shading Control
- Snow
- Wind
- Cleanliness
- Batteries
- Troubleshooting
- Solar PV Systems: Users’ Maintenance Guide
MODULE 8: PV MARKETS APPLICATIONS
- Key contributions to the development PV
- Common types of PV systems
- Advantages disadvantages of PV
- Features and benefits of standalone systems
- Features and benefits of utility-interactive systems
- Roles in the PV industry
- Opportunities for grid-tied and standalone PV systems
- Conservation energy efficiency with PV
MODULE 9: SAFETY BASICS
- Safety hazards of PV systems and components
- Personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements for installing PV
- Safe practices and OSHA standards
- Electrical hazards including shock and arc flash
MODULE 10: ELECTRICAL BASICS
- Basic electrical parameters
- Power vs. Energy
- Common electrical system components
- Electrical test equipment
- Ohm’s Law
- Electric utility system operations
MODULE 11: SOLAR ENERGY FUNDAMENTALS
- Basic solar terms
- Diagram the sun’s movement across the sky
- Sun path diagrams
- Factors that increase/decrease solar energy collection
- True North vs. Magnetic North
- Shading
- Gauging the solar window using software
- Avoiding inter-row shading
- Tools for measuring solar power and solar energy
MODULE 12: PV MODULE FUNDAMENTALS
- Describe how solar cells transform sunlight into electricity
- Define PV cells, modules, panels, and arrays
- Five key electrical output parameters
- I-V Curve
- Series and parallel module connections
- Why PV modules make excellent battery chargers
- Performance rating measurement
- Compare manufacturing fabrication processes of solar cells
- Crystalline silicon cells and thin-film modules
- Calculating efficiency per unit area
- PV modules as limited current sources
- Bypass diodes
- Qualification testing to ensure PV module safety reliability
MODULE 13: SYSTEM COMPONENTS
- Common System Configurations
- Major PV System Components
- Balance of System Components
- PV System Power Processing Equipment
MODULE 14: PV SYSTEM SIZING PRINCIPLES
- Standalone vs. utility-interactive PV systems
- Determine peak power demand energy consumption
- De-rating factors
- PVWATTS
- Maximum minimum number of modules with inverters
MODULE 15: PV SYSTEM ELECTRICAL DESIGN
- Prepare one-line electrical diagrams
- Identify the c properties of electrical conductors
- Nameplate specifications on PV modules and inverters
- Charge control
- Labelling requirements on PV systems
- PV system grounding
- Apply Ohm’s Law to calculate voltage drop
- Approvals and code compliance for PV systems
- National Electric Code
MODULE 16: PV SYSTEM MECHANICAL DESIGN
- Common means of securing PV arrays
- Benefits of different mounting options
- Effects of temperature on PV cells
- Building-integrated PV (BIPV) applications
- Weather sealing
- Roofing structural attachments
- Structural loads (dead, live, wind, snow, seismic)
- Safety, performance, code compliance, and warranties