Is Being A Solar Installer Hard? An Overview

What is a Solar Installer?

A solar installer is a technician who installs solar photovoltaic (PV) panels on the roof of a structure to generate power from the sun. An installer is someone who assembles and maintains solar panels. Based on the customer's preferences, they develop a strategy for installation on each owner's property with the assistance of software like the solar structure design software.

A solar installer must examine how individual panels will be incorporated into a home's or other building's roofing. They will also need to consider how the entire system will integrate with the building's electrical requirements. Each building on which a solar specialist works is likely to be unique. This is due to the fact that roofs are at varying angles and face in different directions, allowing them to receive more or less sunlight.

As a solar specialist, you will be able to plan and implement these projects from beginning to end. You can also work on repairing and maintaining solar systems as needed.

What Exactly Do Solar Installers Do?

Solar photovoltaic (PV) installers, often known as PV installers, construct, install, and maintain rooftop or other solar energy conversion systems.

Solar installers evaluate the measurements and design of the structure on which the PV system is being installed on the jobsite. PV installers must first build a framework that permits the PV system to be installed at an angle on flat rooftops. PV installers build new systems on support structures and cover them with PV panels or PV shingles. They sometimes link the panels to electrical components after they have been installed. PV installers must test the system and its components once it has been installed. PV installers set up PV panels and attach them to frames, wiring, and support structures using a variety of handtools and power tools such as drills, wrenches, saws, and screwdrivers.

PV installers may connect the solar panels to the electrical grid, depending on the work and state requirements, but sometimes electricians do this. Workers verify the electrical systems for appropriate wiring, polarity, and grounding once the panels are installed, and they also perform maintenance as needed.

Solar installers often do the following tasks:

• Configure PV systems based on client requirements and site circumstances.
• Measure, cut, and construct the solar PV panel support structure.
• Install solar modules, panels, and support structures in accordance with local and national construction norms and requirements.
• Connect the PV panels to the power supply.
• Apply weather sealant to the equipment that is being installed.
• Activate and test photovoltaic (PV) systems.
• Perform periodic maintenance on your PV system.

How To Get A Job As A Solar Installer

Obtain Your High School Diploma:

Solar installers must have a high school diploma or an equivalent qualification. Take technical classes in high school to improve your abilities. List the transferrable talents you learned in high school on your CV to boost your chances of receiving a job interview. When looking for positions as a solar installer, be sure to read the job descriptions carefully and match the essential abilities and keywords in your resume to help impress the interviewer. Take the time to do informational interviews with existing solar installers in your region to get a better sense of the abilities you'll need. If they believe you should continue your higher education, experienced solar installers may also assist you in determining appropriate colleges to enroll in.

Enroll In A Higher Education Programme:

If you wish to expand your education in solar installation, apply to community colleges or trade schools. These schools teach safety techniques to be used when dealing with certain tools. Classes in system design and PV expertise will help you comprehend solar panel ideas and work to put panels on buildings. Classes differ depending on where you reside, but they might span weeks or months depending on how detailed the course content is.

You may also be able to enroll in online classes if that is more convenient for you. If you have previous expertise in construction or as an electrician, this is a more straightforward path for you. You might also enroll in an apprenticeship programme to become an electrician, as most states allow electricians to connect PV systems to the electric grid.

Earn A Certification:

If you're looking for another opportunity to enhance your abilities, consider enrolling in a certification programme via the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). Certifications are valuable to employers since they demonstrate your expertise in solar panels as well as your commitment to furthering your education. Many businesses even require this form of accreditation for solar installers. Check to see which states require NABCEP certification to become a solar installer so you can get started on your next career move as soon as possible.

Another similar certification training is provided by the Gujarat Energy Research Management Institute (GERMI), a registered non-profit organization as well as a Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (SIRO) recognised by the Government of India's Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DISR). The organization is also a Gujarat Pollution Control Board-approved Schedule-l Environmental Auditor.

GERMI provides a National Certification Course for Rooftop Solar Photovoltaic Installers, which acts as a decentralized platform for developing highly competent and certified rooftop solar PV installers and preparing them to become successful professionals in the industry. Every year, the school intends to teach and certify 10,000 rooftop solar PV installation specialists across India. GERMI now has 6 partner institutes to give training, but over time, it hopes to cultivate 100 partner training centers and empower them by creating human resources and infrastructural capacities.

Advance Your Skills With On-The-Job Training:

The majority of solar installation training takes place on the job and lasts around a year. This course teaches you how to install solar panels on a building using the required tools, following basic safety precautions, and understanding the proper approaches. If you're working on a specific product, you could get training from the manufacturer. If you need to get more familiar with complicated jobs, larger construction contracting organizations may be able to give you more in-depth training.

4 Tips For Becoming A Resourceful Solar Installer:

Persist Your Training:

Many trade schools and community colleges now offer solar programmes in which students may learn about the technical aspects of solar energy. Although not all of these programmes are certified, some of them may count toward a certificate. On a federal or state level, certification is not currently necessary to become a solar technician, but certain businesses may require it.

On-the-job training is another common path for people interested in a career in solar energy. Field training programmes might range from a month to a year in length. Some producers of solar components also provide training for their own products.

With today's rapidly evolving educational technology trends, like online learning, you may now take steps to become well-versed in PV Installer theory from the comfort of your own home. Do your research before entering any training programme to ensure that you have the tools and qualifications you need to advance in your solar profession.

Expand Your Network:

Networking with solar installers while still in school is a critical step in this profession. Check with local electricians to see if they have any expertise in PV installation. Conversations with them can be beneficial, especially if you express an interest in becoming a solar installer. They may have previously worked with solar installers and might provide you with useful advice as you advance in your profession.

Relocate To A State That Uses Solar Energy:

Consider relocating to a state where there is a greater need for solar installation. States with the greatest sunshine have the greatest demand for this vocation and provide specialized courses. Gaining expertise and networking with specialists in these fields might help you increase your career possibilities as well as your income potential.

Stay Up To Date:

Things are always evolving in an industry like solar power. Take the time to keep up with the latest solar energy news, legislation, and code changes. Employers admire initiative, but if you ever manage projects or operate your own business, you will be prepared for the ongoing changes in the solar sector.

Solar PV Installer Salary in India:

In India, the average gross income for a solar photovoltaic installation is ₹5,34,922 per year, or ₹257 per hour. They also receive an average bonus of ₹9,522. Compensation estimates are based on salary survey data from businesses and anonymous employees in India. The average compensation for an entry-level solar photovoltaic installation (1-3 years of experience) is ₹3,95,097. A senior level solar photovoltaic installation (8+ years of experience), on the other hand, receives an average compensation of ₹6,66,415.

Based on various pay statistics, the predicted earning potential for Solar Photovoltaic Installer is expected to rise by 68% over the next five years.

Understanding the Employment Prospects for Solar Installers:

The need for solar photovoltaic installations is increasing, and the number is expected to grow significantly as demand grows. According to the BLS, the current figure is expected to rise by 63% over the next ten years.This is far faster than almost any other professional route. There will be more money to be made in the sector as there are more work prospects. Employers will have more money to spend as they seek to hire more competent experts.

You may significantly increase your work chances by obtaining a head start with a valuable solar technician qualification. As the need for qualified technicians grows, you will be able to command a higher wage for your services.

Final Thoughts:

Working as a solar installer can be a very satisfying career with a good salary and a pleasant working atmosphere. The sector will boom in the next few years, and there will be plenty of money to be made. It is a good idea to be trained now so that you can start generating good money and profit from increased demand in the future.

Are you prepared to embrace the chance and work as a solar photovoltaic installer? Get certified in the required programme and quickly increase your employment options!