Top 10 Solar Installer Certifications

Certifications for solar installers are important for a number of reasons. First, they demonstrate to potential employers and customers that the installer has the necessary knowledge, skills, and experience to properly install solar systems. This can help ensure customer satisfaction and reduce the risk of any costly mistakes or accidents during the installation process. Certifications also show that an installer is committed to staying up-to-date with the latest technology and best practices in the industry. This can give customers peace of mind that their system will be installed correctly and safely. Finally, certifications may also open up more job opportunities for an installer as many employers prefer to hire certified professionals.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Solar Installers and explains how they can contribute to a solar installer's career.

What are Solar Installer Certifications?

Solar installer certification is a form of specialized training and certification that verifies an individual has the skills and knowledge to safely install solar energy systems. Solar installer certification is offered by organizations such as the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). This type of certification demonstrates that the individual has the necessary qualifications to install solar energy systems in accordance with local, state, and federal regulations.

Having a certified solar installer on staff can provide numerous benefits to both businesses and homeowners. A certified solar installer will have a better understanding of how to properly size, design, and install a system for optimal performance. The installer will also be up-to-date on safety standards and best practices, ensuring that the installation process is conducted safely. Furthermore, having a certified solar installer can provide customers with peace of mind knowing that their project is being handled by someone who has been trained and tested in the field. Finally, many states offer incentives for hiring NABCEP-certified installers, which may result in cost savings for the customer or additional tax credits for businesses.

Pro Tip: Make sure you research the solar installer certification requirements in your area before hiring a solar installer. Different areas have different regulations and certifications, so it's important to ensure the installer is qualified for the job.

Related: What does a Solar Installer do?

Top 10 Solar Installer Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Solar Installers today.

1. NABCEP PV Installation Professional Certification

NABCEP PV Installation Professional Certification is a voluntary certification program for solar photovoltaic (PV) installers. It is designed to verify that installers have the knowledge and skills necessary to design, install, and maintain safe and reliable PV systems. The certification is administered by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP).

The NABCEP PV Installation Professional Certification requires applicants to pass an exam that covers topics such as system sizing, electrical safety, and code compliance. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete. Applicants must also demonstrate at least two years of experience in the installation of PV systems.

To apply for the NABCEP PV Installation Professional Certification, applicants must submit a completed application form along with supporting documentation such as proof of experience and education. Applications are reviewed by NABCEP staff prior to being approved or denied. If approved, applicants will receive an email notification with instructions on how to register for the exam.

The cost for the NABCEP PV Installation Professional Certification varies depending on location but typically ranges from $400-$500 USD. This fee includes the application fee, exam registration fee, and any applicable taxes or fees.

2. NABCEP Solar Heating Installer Certification

The NABCEP Solar Heating Installer Certification is a voluntary certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and experience of those individuals who install solar heating systems. The program was created to provide consumers with an assurance that certified installers possess the necessary qualifications for a successful installation.

To become certified, applicants must have at least two years of documented experience in the design, installation, and maintenance of solar heating systems. Applicants must also pass an exam administered by NABCEP (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners). The exam consists of multiple-choice questions related to solar heating system design, installation, and maintenance.

The entire process typically takes four to six weeks from the time the application is submitted until certification is granted.

To get started, applicants must first create an account on the NABCEP website and complete an online application form. Once the application has been approved, applicants will be sent instructions on how to register for the exam and make payment for it. The fee for taking the exam is $400 USD.

Once applicants have passed the exam they will receive their certification from NABCEP which is valid for three years from date of issue. To maintain their certification, installers must demonstrate continuing education credits every three years or retake the exam.

3. North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) Photovoltaic Technical Sales Certification

The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) Photovoltaic Technical Sales Certification is a professional certification program that provides an industry-wide standard of excellence for those working in the field of photovoltaic (PV) system design, sales, and installation. The certification recognizes individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and experience in the sale and design of PV systems.

To earn the NABCEP Photovoltaic Technical Sales Certification, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements and pass a written exam. Eligibility requirements include having at least two years of experience in PV system sales or design, as well as completing at least 15 hours of approved coursework related to PV system sales or design.

The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as electrical code compliance, system sizing, component selection, customer service, financing options, and more. The exam is offered twice a year at various locations throughout the United States and Canada.

The cost for taking the exam is $450 USD ($575 CAD). This fee includes the application fee and all materials needed to take the exam.

Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your NABCEP Photovoltaic Technical Sales Certification within four to six weeks. This certification must be renewed every three years by completing continuing education credits or retaking the written exam.

4. NABCEP Solar Thermal Installer Certification

The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) Solar Thermal Installer Certification is a voluntary certification program that recognizes the knowledge and experience of professionals who install solar thermal systems. The certification is designed to promote quality and safety in the installation of solar thermal systems.

To be eligible for the NABCEP Solar Thermal Installer Certification, applicants must have at least two years of documented experience in the design, installation, commissioning and maintenance of solar thermal systems. Applicants must also pass an exam administered by NABCEP. The exam consists of multiple choice questions covering topics such as system sizing, design principles, installation techniques, safety considerations and more.

The application process for the certification takes about two weeks to complete. Once an applicant has submitted their application and fees to NABCEP, they will receive a confirmation email with instructions on how to register for the exam. The exam is offered twice a year in June and December at testing centers across the United States and Canada.

The cost for the NABCEP Solar Thermal Installer Certification is $250 USD plus applicable taxes. This fee includes registration for the exam as well as one year of membership with NABCEP which provides access to resources such as webinars, technical support and discounts on training courses.

5. International Association of Electrical Inspectors (IAEI) Solar Photovoltaic Systems Inspector Certification

The International Association of Electrical Inspectors (IAEI) Solar Photovoltaic Systems Inspector Certification is a certification program designed to provide the knowledge and skills necessary for electrical inspectors to properly inspect, test, and approve solar photovoltaic systems. This certification is intended to ensure that solar photovoltaic systems are installed in accordance with applicable codes and standards.

The IAEI Solar Photovoltaic Systems Inspector Certification is a two-day course that covers topics such as system components, installation requirements, safety considerations, testing procedures, and inspection techniques. The course also includes an exam at the end of the second day. To receive the certification, participants must pass the exam with a score of 80% or higher.

To get the IAEI Solar Photovoltaic Systems Inspector Certification, you must first complete an approved training course. These courses are offered by various organizations around the world. Once you have completed your training course, you can then register for the certification exam through IAEI’s website.

The cost of the IAEI Solar Photovoltaic Systems Inspector Certification varies depending on where you take your training course and how much it costs to register for the exam. Generally speaking, however, it will cost around $400-$500 USD for both the training and exam fees.

6. National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) Solar PV Installer Certification

The National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) Solar PV Installer Certification is a certification program that verifies the knowledge and skills of solar photovoltaic (PV) installers. It is designed to ensure that solar PV installers have the necessary qualifications to safely and efficiently install solar PV systems.

The certification process consists of an online exam, which must be completed in order to obtain the certification. The exam covers topics such as electrical theory, system design, installation techniques, safety procedures, and maintenance requirements. The exam is offered in both English and Spanish.

In order to take the exam, applicants must be 18 years or older and have at least two years of experience working with residential or commercial solar PV systems. Applicants must also submit proof of their work experience via a signed affidavit from their employer or supervisor.

The cost of the NECA Solar PV Installer Certification exam is $175 USD. The exam takes approximately three hours to complete and results are typically available within two weeks after completion of the exam. Once certified, installers are required to renew their certification every three years by completing continuing education courses provided by NECA.

7. North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) Solar Thermal Installer Certificate

The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) Solar Thermal Installer Certificate is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and proficiency in the installation of solar thermal systems. This certification provides assurance to employers, customers, and other stakeholders that certified installers have the necessary knowledge to properly install solar thermal systems.

In order to receive the NABCEP Solar Thermal Installer Certificate, applicants must pass an exam covering topics such as system design, safety procedures, installation techniques, and troubleshooting. The exam is offered twice a year at various locations throughout the United States and Canada. It typically takes about two hours to complete the exam.

To get the NABCEP Solar Thermal Installer Certificate, applicants must first register for the exam at least three weeks prior to the test date. Applicants must also pay a fee of $150 USD for each attempt at the exam. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their certificate within six weeks of taking it.

The cost of obtaining a NABCEP Solar Thermal Installer Certificate can vary depending on where you take your exam and any additional fees associated with it. Generally speaking, however, it will cost around $150 USD per attempt at the exam plus any applicable taxes or fees.

8. North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) Photovoltaic System Inspector Certificate

The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) Photovoltaic System Inspector Certificate is a certification program for professionals in the solar industry. This certification is intended to verify that certified individuals have the knowledge and skills necessary to inspect photovoltaic systems and components. This certificate is highly regarded in the solar industry, as it demonstrates a commitment to professional excellence.

To obtain this certification, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as electrical safety, system design and installation, system operations and maintenance, and troubleshooting. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and can be taken online or at an approved testing center. The exam fee is $200 USD.

In order to be eligible for the NABCEP Photovoltaic System Inspector Certificate, applicants must have at least two years of experience in PV system design or installation or one year of experience in PV system inspection or commissioning. Applicants must also provide proof of their experience by submitting references from previous employers or clients.

The process for obtaining the NABCEP Photovoltaic System Inspector Certificate typically takes between two and four weeks from start to finish. Once all requirements are met, applicants will receive their certificate within seven days after passing the exam.

9. International Renewable Energy Council (IREC) Accredited PV Installation Professional Training Program

The International Renewable Energy Council (IREC) Accredited PV Installation Professional Training Program is a comprehensive program designed to teach individuals the fundamentals of photovoltaic (PV) system installation and maintenance. The program consists of two parts: an online course and a hands-on lab component.

The online course covers topics such as solar energy basics, PV system components, sizing and design, installation techniques, safety, commissioning and maintenance. The course typically takes around 30 hours to complete.

The hands-on lab component involves working with live equipment in a simulated environment to gain practical experience in installing PV systems. This component usually takes around 10 hours to complete.

To get the IREC Accredited PV Installation Professional Training Program certification, individuals must successfully pass both the online course and the hands-on lab component. Upon successful completion of both components, individuals can apply for their certification from IREC.

The cost of the IREC Accredited PV Installation Professional Training Program varies depending on where you take it and whether or not you are eligible for any discounts or grants. Generally speaking, however, the cost is between $500-$1,000 USD for both components combined.

10. National Electric Code (NEC) Photovoltaic System Installer Certification

The National Electric Code (NEC) Photovoltaic System Installer Certification is a certification program developed by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). It is designed to ensure that photovoltaic system installers have the knowledge and skills necessary to safely and effectively install, maintain, and inspect photovoltaic systems. The certification requires completion of an accredited training program and passing an exam.

To be eligible for the NEC Photovoltaic System Installer Certification, applicants must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or equivalent, and have at least one year of experience in the installation of photovoltaic systems. In addition, applicants must complete an approved training course and pass the associated exam. The training course typically takes between 10-20 hours to complete depending on experience level.

To obtain the NEC Photovoltaic System Installer Certification, applicants must first register with NFPA and pay a registration fee. After registering with NFPA, applicants can then register for an approved training program which will include instruction on topics such as electrical safety, wiring methods for photovoltaic systems, codes and standards related to photovoltaics, system design considerations, commissioning procedures, and more. Upon successful completion of the training course, applicants must take and pass a proctored exam administered by NFPA in order to receive their certification.

The cost of obtaining the NEC Photovoltaic System Installer Certification varies depending on the provider chosen for both the training course and proctored exam. Generally speaking however, expect to pay anywhere from $500-$1,000 USD for both components combined.

Do You Really Need a Solar Installer Certificate?

Yes, you should consider obtaining a solar installer certificate if you are considering becoming a professional solar installer. A solar installer certificate is an important credential that demonstrates your knowledge and experience in the field of renewable energy. It shows potential employers and clients that you have the proper qualifications to install and maintain solar systems safely and efficiently. A solar installer certificate also provides proof of your understanding of the latest industry standards and regulations.

In addition to providing a way for potential employers or clients to verify your qualifications, having a solar installer certificate can give you an edge over other applicants when applying for jobs or projects. It can also help you get better rates on insurance policies, as insurers may be more likely to provide coverage for those who are certified in the field. Finally, having a solar installer certificate can help you stay up-to-date with advances in the industry by providing access to continuing education courses that are designed specifically for certified professionals.

Overall, obtaining a solar installer certificate is an important step in pursuing a career in this growing field. Not only will it demonstrate your expertise and commitment to safety, but it can also open doors to new opportunities and better rates on insurance policies. As such, anyone considering becoming a professional solar installer should seriously consider getting their certification as soon as possible.

Related: Solar Installer Resume Examples

FAQs About Solar Installer Certifications

1. What certifications do I need to become a solar installer?

Answer: The specific certifications you will need will depend on where you live and the type of work you are doing. In general, most installers will have some form of electrical certification, such as a Journeyman Electrician’s license or Solar PV Installer Certification. Additionally, many states require additional licensing or certifications for solar installers.

2. How long does it take to get a solar installer certification?

Answer: The amount of time it takes to obtain a certification will vary depending on the type of certification you are pursuing and the requirements for obtaining it in your area. Generally, it can take anywhere from several weeks to several months to complete the necessary coursework and obtain the appropriate license or certificate.

3. What is the cost associated with getting a solar installer certification?

Answer: The cost of obtaining a solar installer certification will depend on the type of certification and requirements in your area. Generally speaking, most courses and licenses will range from $200-$1000 USD depending on where you live and what type of training is needed.

4. Are there any online resources available to help me get certified as a solar installer?

Answer: Yes! There are many online resources available that can help you prepare for and obtain your solar installer certification. These include online courses, webinars, tutorials, practice tests, and more. It is important to check with your local authorities regarding any specific requirements they may have before beginning any online training program.

5. Is there an age requirement for becoming a certified solar installer?

Answer: Depending on where you live, there may be an age requirement for becoming certified as a solar installer in certain jurisdictions or states. Generally speaking though, most places do not have an age restriction on who can become certified as a solar installer so long as they meet all other applicable requirements such as having completed the necessary training or coursework required by their jurisdiction/state laws/regulations