Education, Training, and Workforce Development
Students from the University of Colorado add 32 solar panels, each one rated at 200 watts, to their 2005 Solar Decathlon house.
The U.S. Department of Energy Solar Energy Technologies Program (SETP or Solar Program) supports efforts to increase the number of qualified workers for a growing solar industry. A well-trained workforce is necessary to ensure quality installations, cost reductions, and consumer confidence in the reliability of solar installations. Education, Training, and Workforce Development activities are funded through the Solar Program's Market Transformation efforts. These activities currently focus on building the capacity of U.S. educational institutions to respond to the increased demand for high-quality training for solar installers and code officials.
SETP launched the Solar Instructor Training Network in October 2009 to promote high-quality training in the installation of solar photovoltaic (PV) and solar heating and cooling (SHC) technologies. Nine regional resource and training providers offer professional development of trainers and instructors.
The Solar Program funds the following partner organizations:
- The Interstate Renewable Energy Council's activities include training workshops and conferences, accreditation of training programs, certification of master trainers and instructors, communications and outreach, and development of best practices in solar training and education.
- The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners is a nationally accredited certification body in the United States that certifies solar PV and solar thermal installers.
- New Mexico State University's Southwest Technology Development Institute provides training and assistance in working with the National Electric Code.
Below are links to resources developed by IREC and other, non-DOE sponsored, entities.