Building Science
Building Science
Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Installers Occupational Outlook Information
Skills
• Customer Service • Mechanical skills • Physical Stamina & Strength • Detail Oriented
What PV Installers Do
Solar photovoltaic (PV) installers, often called PV installers, assemble, install,
or maintain solar panel systems on roofs or other structures.
Work Environment
Although most PV installation is done outdoors, installers sometimes work in attics
and crawl spaces to connect panels to the electric grid. Installers must also travel
to job sites. Most work full time during regular business hours, but some are required
to be on call.
How to Become a PV Installer
Although some installers need only a high school diploma and they typically receive
on-the-job training lasting up to 1 year, many candidates take a course at a technical
school or community college, or receive training as part of an apprenticeship program.
Job Outlook
Employment of solar photovoltaic (PV) installers is projected to grow 24% from 2014 to 2024, much faster than the average for all occupations. The continued expansion and adoption of solar panel installations will result in excellent job opportunities for qualified individuals, particularly those who complete a photovoltaic training course at a community college or technical school.
Pay
The median annual wage for solar photovoltaic installers was $40,020 in May 2014.
Source: www.bls.gov, March 2016.
Certifications & Degrees to Boost Your Business or Career
Certifications provide a standard that sets you apart so employers and customers know
that you can demonstrate a specific set of knowledge and skills. Many pathways exist
for training and certification, and it pays to plan your direction. Whether you are
at an entry level or are an experienced contractor with your own company, training
and certification can increase the quality and value of your work. Significant on
the job learning is usually required to become proficient in the skills taught during
a course. For those working as or for contractors in the renewable energy field, the
North American Board of Energy Practitioners provides a well – established set of
nationally recognized certificates at an entry level training opportunity as well
as certifications for skilled professionals.
BUSINESS & SCIENCE COURSES
ELECTRICAL THEORY I BASICS
This course includes components of the atom, electron flow through conductors, conductivity,
series and parallel circuits, tracing circuits, trouble shooting, voltage and current
resistance, AC and DC voltage, single phase, three phase, and Ohm’s Law. The course
includes a lab component. Instructor: K. Crawford
PHOTOVOLTAICS (PV) SYSTEMS – RECOGNIZED BY NABCEP
Prerequisite: Electrical Theory and Electrical Distribution Systems.
Required text: Photovoltaic
NABCEP PV ASSOCIATES EXAM
DCB 1950 by appointment
COMMERCIAL ELECTRIC - HYBRID
In this course, students learn about the essential components of the electrical systems
of commercial buildings. Topics include reading commercial building plans and specifications,
computing electrical loads, branch circuits and components, and electronic service
equipment. Electrical considerations specific to renewable energy systems are also
covered. Instructor: L. Reeger
Required text: Simmons/Mullin, Electrical Wiring – Commercial, 16th Edition, (ISBN-13: 978-1337101882)
Materials list: Web cam and mic, ear bud or speakers, flammable, non-melting long sleeve shirt and long pants or coveralls (cotton, wool or silk), UV rated safety glasses or goggles, hearing protection, leather gloves
GRB 230-0X HV W 9-11:50am Hybrid $603
DCB 2149-01
The DCB course is a non-credit option for the 3-credit GRB course. Students will be expected to do all homework assignments and quizzes but no grade will be awarded. For assistance in selecting a course, please contact SUNY Ulster at 845-802-7171.
GREEN BUILDING MAINTENANCE & MANAGEMENT A.A.S.
61-63 credits
Gain the skills and knowledge needed to maintain and manage high-performance commercial buildings. Learn current theories and get hands-on training to work with evolving technologies like photovoltaic cells, wind generators, geothermal heating, and HVAC systems.
To learn more about the Green Building Maintenance & Management credit program, click here.
BUILDING SCIENCE, CLEAN ENERGY & ENERGY EFFICIENCY FREE INFORMATION SESSION
Thinking about starting a career in building science or clean energy? Interested in adding some new skills to your existing skill set as a contractor? Come to this information session to find out how you can become credentialed to offer energy audits or install solar!
