A solar panel is one of the most rapidly advancing technologies, which is replacing fossil fuel energy around the globe. Many people are moving towards green energy and incorporating solar panels into their lives. These panels are being installed residentially as well as commercially, and the job of a solar installer is one of the quickest growing vocations in the skilled trade industry.
Solar panels, also known as photovoltaic cells, consist of two semiconductor layers. They harvest solar energy and convert it into useable electrical energy, with the help of inverters. These panels can help you produce clean and green energy, which reduces your electricity bills and allows you to transfer unused electricity back into the grid.
Since this profession has been getting a lot of traction in the last few decades, one wonders what is required to be a solar contractor? If you are interested in the process of solar paneling and want to know what is required to be a solar contractor, keep reading this article to find out.
Four Tips for Becoming a Solar Installer
Solar installer or solar contractor is one of the fastest-growing businesses in the United States. Solar energy is gaining more popularity as the world shifts to green energy. Therefore, if you are looking for hands-on work and interested in a career with ample room to grow, here are four tips to consider:
Network Within the Industry
The first and most important thing that is required to be a solar contractor is your ability to connect and network with people within the industry. This is the best way for you to learn and grow as a solar contractor.
When you connect within the industry, you learn so much from the experiences and insights of people who have been working in this field. This knowledge is something that you may not find in a book or magazine.
According to statistics, 80% of people land jobs through their networking skills. This is further important here as the ability to communicate with clients is a big part of the job of a solar installer. So, if you want to excel in your career as a solar contractor, you may want to socialize within the solar installer community and learn about the field. Multiple solar conferences take place in the US, which can be excellent places for networking. Keep an eye out for such conferences and learn from your peers’ experiences
Find Training Opportunities
The second most important tip for you to consider is enrolling yourself in a school or a training program, for people wanting to learn about solar panels and their installation. Many trade schools and colleges have now started to offer courses on solar installation for interested candidates.
Finding such training opportunities is extremely important if you want to excel in your career as a solar contractor. Moreover, enrolling in such programs will provide you with certification or degrees, which is always a bonus point. So, make sure that you have undergone training and possess the required credentials to pursue a career as a solar installer.
Gain Practical Experience
After you have completed all your training and certification, the next step forward is for you to gain practical, hands-on experience in the field. People tend to look for contractors that already have experience, making it hard for new solar contractors to find work.
However, in today’s age, there are many 3D simulations and virtual training software that can enable you to get the hands-on experience that is required in the field. You can practice on those simulations or work under an experienced solar contractor before you can work alone.
The good thing about being in the solar installer industry is that the demand for solar contractors is extremely high. Therefore, there are plenty of opportunities available for those hoping to gain practical experience in the field.
Stay Up to Date
In a rapidly growing industry like solar power, things continue to change very quickly. It is important for you as a solar contractor to keep up to date with all the new regulations, news, and code changes. Being informed about the newest technologies is not only appreciated by the employers but also keeps you prepared for future opportunities.
What Qualifications Should Solar Installers Have?
One question that is very common among people who want to be solar contractors is: what is required to be a solar contractor? The solar installer must have up-to-date knowledge on safety concerns, installation practices, best techniques, and current available equipment and products.
The solar installer must meet all state requirements for certification and license. Mentioned below are some of the important qualifications that you must have to be a solar contractor, in addition to basic solar training:
Electrical License
As a solar installer, an electrical license is a must for you as it enables you to engage in electrical work. This license includes working with and on electrical appliances as well as electrical installations. Having an electrical license also benefits you as a contractor as it serves as proof that you are competent in the work that you are offering.
CEC Accreditation
Although it’s not pertinent for a solar installer to have CEC accreditation, it is recommended for you to choose someone who is accredited. The reason for that is accredited solar installers are trained to install solar panels, batteries, and other renewable systems. This means every solar installer that is CEC accredited has undergone certain training and can be relied on for performing a good job on their solar panel installation.
What Qualifications Do You Need to Be a Solar Panel Installer?
There are some additional qualifications a solar installer must-have, which include:
Good knowledge of electrical systems
Ability to communicate well with others
Analytical thinking skills
Ability to work at heights
Ability to remain calm during stressful situations
Attention to detail
Good design and understanding skills
How Do I Become a Certified Solar Installer?
One of the ways for you to become a certified solar installer is to complete a solar training course, apply for provisional accreditation with CEC, and pass an online simulation test.