Solar Educational Resources for Experienced Professionals

Solar resources on training and courses are available for skilled professionals in the solar industry and those with experience in other trades, who want continuing education and certification.

The primary audiences for these educational resources are professionals in solar installation (e.g., installation contractors, system designers, engineers, and sales people) and related trades (e.g., electrical contracting, building construction, and roofing).

Training and Courses

The Solar Program awarded funds to the Interstate Renewable Energy Council (IREC) and New Mexico State University (NMSU) to develop solar education and training resources for solar professionals. Through Market Transformation activities such as these, the Solar Program's goal is to increase market acceptance of solar technologies.

IREC Renewable Energy Training Catalog
IREC maintains a searchable database and map of renewable energy training courses, including solar, available from institutions and groups nationwide, including installer certification.
Training Courses on the National Electric Code
New Mexico State University's Southwest Technology Development Institute provides calendar of training events and training courses on the National Electric Code.

Licensure and Certification for Solar Professionals

In addition to courses and training, the Solar Program promotes licensure and certification of solar professionals throughout the United States. Licensing and certification are important but different credentials, so it is important to consider both when becoming a qualified installation contractor.

The Solar Program funds the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP), which offers voluntary certification for photovoltaics and solar thermal installers. The NABCEP certifications are for solar professionals who have the skills and experience to distinguish themselves from their competition.