Solar PV Technician

Solar photovoltaic (PV) technology isn't new anymore - it's here to stay and anyone entering a field in building trades should have an understanding of clean technology just like this. This course is designed to walk Learners through the ins and outs of solar technology. Whether you're aiming to do the actual installation or interested in adding solar installation skills to your existing background in electrical, it's important to understand this technology from start to finish. This program provides instruction in the background and history of the solar industry and includes extensive 3D/VR simulations designed to get you installing like a Pro. From there, we'll advance to Solar maintenance and diagnostics as well as a variety of skills and knowledge you'll need for solar sales and installation including site assessment techniques and array assembly installation.

From the rookie in the field, an installer with a few years under their belt, a solar sales rep or even an operations manager, this training delivers the knowledge you need to start your career in this exciting new field. The foundational video-based courses the building blocks to understand the core concepts behind the science and technology of solar. This cutting-edge curriculum ensures learn everything about Solar PV installation from the basics to more advanced concepts

Program Objectives

After completing this program, learners will be able to:

• Solar basics and the foundations of PV
• Solar cell technology and module design
• Solar inverter technology
• The IV curve
• Assess ground conditions for safety, workability and potential inverter placement issues
• Observe main service panel for amperage capacity, breaker space availability and model info
• Recognize roofing hazards and types of pre-existing damage that could affect array placement
• Identification and exact location of roof obstructions
• In-attic observation of rafter size, spacing, and any pre-existing water damage
• Setting array boundary to respect fire setback restrictions and aesthetics
• Finding and marking of rafter/truss locations and centering the array over them
• Proper attachment of flashed mounts over rafters/trusses and above shingle drip edge
• Assembly of rail sections with splices and attachment to 'L' feet
• Attachment of optimizers to rails and securing wiring above roofing with clips and ties
• Assembly of jumpers using MC4 connectors and crimping tool
• Securing solar modules to rails with attachment hardware and torque wrench
• Securing equipment enclosures to walls with anchor bolts
• Connecting EMT conduit sections with connectors, couplings and LL, LR and LB bodies
• Creating a flashed roof penetration
• Pulling conductors with a fish tape from a wire spool caddy
• Stripping and connecting wires to a variety of terminals
• Installing NEC labeling on equipment, disconnects and conduit
• Mechanical commissioning
• Electrical commissioning
• Solar PV system troubleshooting

Certification Opportunities

After completing this program, learners will have the opportunity to take the leading national/industry-recognized certification exam(s) essential to entry-level employment in this fast-growing field.

OSHA Course Completion Card for 10-Hour Course

Optional Volunteer Externship Opportunity

Students who complete this program are eligible to participate in an optional volunteer externship opportunity with a local company/agency/organization whose work aligns with this area of study in order to gain valuable hands-on experience.  As students progress through their eLearning program, an Externship Coordinator will reach out to coordinate placement.

Note: Additional documentation including health records, immunizations, drug-screening, criminal background checks, etc. may be required by the externship facility.

*Additional coursework may be required for certification.