You’re obviously ready for a career change, or maybe you just want to get an idea of what it takes after all to become a solar energy installer. You most likely have observed expert solar operators getting busy with planting solar panels on roofs of buildings, and you feel you need to do one either for yourself or for others. There are some things you need to know.
First off, you need to know that a solar technician or contractor is one who installs solar systems in residences, offices, and companies, or other places so that people can use and enjoy solar power.
A solar installer is expected to demonstrate a master-level knowledge of installation procedures, current and most optimal equipment as well as best practices for a lasting solar solution.
With a rising demand for a durable and faultless solar system, there is a need for the solar installer to meet all state requirements for certification and licensing. He also needs an acceptable level of expertise with hands-on training through several programs.
What Are The Responsibilities of A Solar Technician?
As a solar technician you will be charged with the following:
- Assessing the installation environment and detecting possible hazards
- Mapping out convenient spots and location for all components of the solar system
- Designing, fixing, verifying, and cross-examining solar PV systems
- Identifying, labeling, and installing electrical wiring
- Testing the solar system and defining the grounding systems
- Making adjustments to the system controls as found necessary
- Adhering to all safety checks and producer specifications
- Proofing the system against adverse weather
How to Become a Solar Contractor
Ideally, you may not be legally required to obtain a license before you can install solar energy in every state. As explained by the folks behind https://hvacprograms.net/solar-technician-careers/, some states may require very specific training to be able to do any form of public installation. Whichever the case, you should get licensed in your own state and become well established before getting into other states.
What is the NABCEP?
NABCEP stands for the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners and is the global certification leader in renewable energy. A NABCEP certification establishes your ability to work anywhere in the world where NABCEP certification is a requirement.
You can get a number of free courses and training programs that are free and useful in your solar technician journey.
Except you’re not in the USA, NABCEP is the organization that is most recognized and provides very important info on how to get certified in solar panel installation. It’s highly recommended that you start your search for the right training centers here.
Training Centers
Different states provide different solar training centers, and you may have to apply caution in order to select a training place closest to you and which offers what you require.
Certification Programs
No specific certification programs are available for solar technicians. The training center will provide the needed certificates based on state requirements.
Licensing Education
To become a licensed solar installer, you’ll need to pass a state certification exam. The necessary info for this exam is usually going to be given to you by the training center.
Attending Trade Schools
Trade schools are another option to consider when learning solar installation in your state.
They are actually specialized vocational schools that are often up to date on state regulations, licensing requirements, and acceptable practices as it relates to solar power generation.
Trade schools will provide you with adequate training in solar installation that is highly preferable when compared to other training options.
Company/In-House Training
We have seen a number of ways to get your highly desired solar training from different training programs and centers, and we have also understood the importance of certification to operate as a solar installer depending on your state and location.
In-house training is yet another means of getting empowered with the skills needed to install solar systems successfully. This involves getting the training from already established solar power providing companies while working as an intern or other staff.
Assuming you are working In states where licensing isn’t required, this company may well be worth it in terms of getting good practical training.
With this kind of training, you will meet the standard requirements of the company and also meet any regulations that the solar industry may require.
While this may be a good thing when planning to work in those states that don’t necessitate a requirement or any specific training or license, you will be required to get a license or other acceptable training when going to operate in other states. A way out will be to obtain a verifiable certification from the company you work for.
Getting into the solar industry is surely a promising career path and must be taken quite seriously and given proper attention.
