There are many reasons to become a solar installer:
- Government incentives reduce pressure on the gas and electric grids. Solar installation helps an ever-growing population reduce its dependency on power grids.
- Monetary incentives drive consumer demand. Consumers want to save money on power consumption.
- Environmental trends, including the push for renewable energy, promote a cultural trend toward solar power.
Regardless of the reasons behind solar installation, it is an exciting and rewarding career opportunity. Read more about it here.
Installation of solar panels
After purchasing and installing your solar panels, the next step is to connect them to your home’s electrical system. Before you can connect your solar system to the electric grid, a representative from your town will come to your home and inspect the installation. They will check the wiring, mounting, and overall system for compliance with standard electrical codes. Installation of solar panels can be daunting, but following a few basic steps will make the process go smoothly.
First, make sure your work area is free of obstacles. You or a PV technician can fall and hurt yourself. To minimize the risk of injury:
- Wear the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and work only in dry conditions.
- Always keep an eye on where you’re walking and avoid stepping on objects that might break or fall onto the panel.
- Cover any roof openings or skylights before beginning installation.
Training required
The training required for becoming a solar installer can vary. Depending on your experience, you can pursue on-the-job training or enroll in an accredited program. There are also certification courses, which can range from one to two months long and offer hands-on training. Some systems also require a state exam. However, it is not necessary to be certified to become a solar installer on the federal level. A certificate is required for many employers but may not be essential for all.
To become a solar installer, you must complete a specialized training program and receive an apprenticeship. Some training programs can lead to licensing and certification, as well. However, many employers prefer candidates with some practical experience, so training should be aimed at giving you hands-on training in an actual installation environment. You may also opt for an online course that offers virtual reality and 3D simulations to learn the ropes. This type of training can be helpful if you are interested in being a solar installer but will still need to gain some experience.
Salary
The salary range for Solar Installers varies by location. According to ZipRecruiter, the median annual pay for Solar Installers is $48,460. However, the middle 60 percent of Solar Installers earn $37,830, while the highest 10 percent earn $56,670 annually. Therefore, the average salary range varies by $13,000, and it may be even higher or lower depending on the years you have worked in the field.
Training is an essential part of this occupation. A solar installer must be physically fit and knowledgeable about various tools and equipment. Some training is specialized, while others are training in general. In addition, solar installers must have a high school diploma or a certification equivalent. Some solar installers have a background in electrical work and may even be certified electricians. This training will help them earn more than those who are career-switching newcomers.
Job outlook
A career as a solar installer can be a lucrative choice for someone with construction and technical skills. Those interested in this job should have a high school diploma or equivalent. There are several paths to this career. One way is to specialize by obtaining training in a particular area. For example, someone who has experience installing solar panels may decide to specialize in wind energy. A third route involves becoming a utility interconnection engineer.
If you’re interested in the energy industry’s future, solar installers may be a good fit. This industry is overgrowing in the U.S., and more demand for solar power means more opportunities for skilled installers. Solar photovoltaic installers install solar panels on homes and other buildings, converting sunlight into electricity. Some of these systems can produce electricity and even heat water. The outlook for this career is promising: the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 51 percent job growth over the next decade.
