Solar energy is the most widely used method of generating electricity worldwide. The global and American increase in its popularity has created numerous employment opportunities. Immigrating to the U.S. as a solar installer is an excellent opportunity to progress your career and help the environment. Solar energy installations take some time and require skilled solar specialists.
The demand for qualified solar installers is high because the solar energy industry is booming. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics has estimated that employment for solar installers will grow by 25% between 2022 and 2032. As the market expands, training people to ensure they have the required licenses and solar installer certifications is essential.
If you need clarification on whether this is the right career, research it and learn how to install solar panels. It might help if you want to work in the international renewable energy sector. Many wonder how immigrating to the U.S. as a solar installer can boost their careers. This article explains what solar installation is, looks at how to become one, what qualifications are needed, and offers advice on how to get started!
What is a Solar Installer?
A solar installer is a professional who builds, installs and maintains solar energy systems. They must cooperate with solar equipment such as P.V. panels, solar inverters, and installation structures to build functioning solar arrays. In addition to installing solar equipment, installers conduct site inspections to determine the best location for solar panels to produce the most solar energy.
They also handle electrical wiring to connect perfectly with the current power systems. Additionally, they conduct regular maintenance, troubleshoot problems, and instruct customers on operating their systems.
Solar Installer Job Skills
Many solar businesses train unskilled solar installers, but you may get hired if you possess specific skills. Developing the necessary skills and talents can help you stand out as a candidate for solar installation work.
Tool Use Competence and Flexibility
Potential solar installers must be able to operate various installation-related tools and equipment. Solar P.V. installers need good hand-eye coordination and manual skills because they frequently utilize various hand tools. Having real-world experience in carpentry, roofing, building, or a similar industry is usually advantageous because it lays the groundwork for the practical labor required of solar installers.
Awareness of Safety
Solar installers frequently work at heights, whether on rooftops or in high structures, which increases the risk of falls. Additionally, installing solar panels requires handling electricity, which can be dangerous if not done correctly. Solar installers reduce the possibility of accidents, electrical shocks, and injuries by putting safety first and creating a safe working environment for themselves and their coworkers. Safety can be increased by following procedures, using the appropriate protective gear, and maintaining awareness.
Comfortable on rooftops
Extreme fear of heights can be fatal for solar installers because working on rooftops is essential to many residential and commercial solar panel installations. However, using the appropriate safety equipment and following procedures is necessary. If you want to work closer to the ground and would instead become a solar installer, you might be better off working on ground-mounted systems like solar farms.
Knowledge of Electrical & Building Codes
Senior solar installers need to know about building and electrical codes for various reasons. Following applicable codes is essential in ensuring solar systems’ dependability and safety. A complete understanding of electrical codes is necessary to avoid potential electrical hazards and ensure the system operates properly.
Similarly, understanding building codes addresses structural issues, ensuring the safe installation of solar panels into the building’s framework. This information is necessary to prevent code infractions, facilitate solar permit processing, and enhance solar installations’ overall performance and security.
Physical Abilities for Solar Installers
Installers of solar photovoltaic systems must perform physically demanding jobs such as carrying and lifting solar panels, climbing up ladders, and performing rooftop work. A high level of general physical fitness is required for these activities. Installers of solar panels should be able to withstand the physical demands of their work for the whole day, as these projects may require working long hours outside in the scorching summer heat or freezing weather.
Types of Solar Technicians
The function of solar installers varies as much as the size and applications of solar panel installations. You can focus on the professional abilities required to become a solar installer by choosing the projects you want to work on.
Residential Solar Installer
Solar professionals make the installation of solar power in homes much more accessible. Their duties include evaluating a property’s solar energy potential, setting up solar panels, and linking them to the electrical system. They also ensure proper wiring, installation, and system setup for the best possible energy generation.
Installers may also instruct homeowners on how to maintain and operate their systems. Completing a home solar installation requires both inside and outdoor labor. Frequently, a certified electrician working under a master electrician handles the electrical panel.
Commercial Solar Installer
Business solar installers design and install solar systems for businesses and organizations, including hospitals, schools, office buildings, shopping malls, government buildings, and farms. Their duties include evaluating solar sites, working with customers to understand energy requirements, creating effective solar plans, setting up photovoltaic systems, and ensuring compliance with building and electrical regulations.
Commercial solar installers frequently provide continuing maintenance and monitoring services to maximize system performance and quickly handle any problems, guaranteeing the long-term dependability of the solar energy infrastructure.
Becoming a Utility-scale Solar Installer
Large ground-mounted solar arrays can power thousands or hundreds of homes and businesses. Utility-scale solar installers manage the installation and upkeep of solar panels for large-scale solar installations to generate electricity for the grid. They are responsible for setting up the location, installing the solar panels, connecting the electrical parts, and ensuring the system works.
How to Become a Solar Installer
You have many professional options to learn the abilities required to work as a professional solar panel technician. A few of these can result in certifications for solar installers, proving their expertise in the P.V. sector.
Training Programs for Solar Installers
To become a solar installer, one must often complete specific training programs that convey the skills and information required for the position. Various organizations and institutions provide training programs for solar installers that cover electrical systems, solar panel installation, safety considerations, and pertinent regulations.
Frequently, these courses combine classroom instruction with real-world experience to guarantee that aspiring solar technicians are equipped for their positions. Training programs, which differ in length and format, allow people to support the renewable energy industry and break into the growing solar installation market.
Solar Energy International (S.E.I.): S.E.I. provides comprehensive training programs covering every solar design and installation aspect. Many of these programs have online access.
North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (N.A.B.C.E.P.): For professionals working in renewable energy, N.A.B.C.E.P. offers solar certification programs that guarantee compliance with strict industry requirements. In the solar sector, N.A.B.C.E.P. solar certificates are highly esteemed.
Interstate Renewable Energy Council (I.R.E.C.): I.R.E.C. offers training and accreditation programs, including the IREC ISPQ credential, recognizing skilled solar P.V. installers.
Grid Alternatives: This organization offers comprehensive solar installer training programs that involve hands-on solar energy installation experience and has locations in California, Colorado, Washington D.C., and Nicaragua.
Hudson Valley Community College (H.V.C.C.): H.V.C.C. in New York offers a Solar Energy Technology program that provides training in solar installation for people interested in becoming solar panel installers.
Become a Certified Electrician
Enrolling in an approved electrical program offered by a technical school or community college is the first step in becoming a certified electrician and a successful solar installer. Additionally, you will get practical experience working with wiring, circuits, and safety procedures while supervised by accredited electricians.
With extensive electrical knowledge, more career opportunities, and higher earning potential, this electrical certification improves your abilities and positions you as a valuable asset in the solar installation industry.
On-the-job Solar Installer Training
For individuals who would instead learn by doing, on-the-job training can lead to a career as a solar technician. Without a formal degree, one might begin becoming a solar installer by landing an entry-level job with a firm that installs solar panels.
Working with seasoned installers to learn to handle tools, comprehend safety procedures, and perfect installation techniques is a common aspect of on-the-job training. Through hands-on training, people can progressively acquire the skills required for solar installation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is experience required for solar installer jobs?
Although some solar companies strongly prefer hiring experienced solar technicians, many will employ attractive candidates without solar installation experience. However, complementary skills, such as using hand tools and roofing or electrical knowledge, can be helpful.
Is installing solar panels a dangerous job?
Although installing solar panels entails some risk, dangers are significantly lower by safety precautions and training. Installers must exercise caution, use the right equipment, and follow safety procedures because they deal with electricity and at heights. The industry focuses on reducing risks to establish a safe work environment for installers, and the job becomes manageable with proper training, an emphasis on safety, and compliance with the norms.