Solar installation is one of the crafts that require you to be certified in order to practice freely. The solar energy industry is growing rapidly, and with this rapid growth is an equal increase in the demand for certified PV installers. According to reports from the US Bureau of Labour Statistics, employment for certified solar installers will increase by 52% between 2020 and 2030. That is a high figure, and most individuals are taking advantage of this prediction.
There are different types of certifications that you can acquire as a solar installer. However, one of the most prominent types is the NABCEP certification.
Why Should You Get a NABCEP Solar Certification?
Whether you are a beginner or a professional, the NABCEP certification can help you. As a beginner, it will set you on the right track and give you an advantage over your peers. As a professional, it can redirect you, helping you find a more suitable career path to take. Also, it can boost your earning potential and help you qualify for better jobs more suitable to your specific interests.
Here are some of the key benefits of getting solar installation training;
Recognition:
NABCEP is one of the most recognized certifications in the solar industry. A certificate from this board indicates that you were capable of learning, training, and passing the necessary exams and completed other rigorous processes involved to make you a professional. It is an automatic stamp of credibility to your portfolio as an installer.
High skills:
As an expert certified by NABCEP, the quality of solar technician training you get is unmatched. You can be truly confident in your abilities following the kind of training and knowledge you will amass in the cause of your training.
Most consumers look out for this certification:
Consumers that have some knowledge of the solar industry understand the implication of a NABCEP certification. Therefore, this is among the qualifications they look out for before choosing an expert for a job. This means that the certification automatically exposes you to more opportunities.
Discounts and special memberships:
NABCEP is affiliated with other reputable boards and committees. A certification from them gives you discounts to post job offers and send out your CVs to companies that need them. It also gives you access to membership on some top boards.
How to Become a Certified Solar Installer
To become an accredited NABCEP installer, the first thing you need to do is create a NABCEP account. Each applicant is allowed only one profile on the NABCEP database for easy tracking and credibility. Having or trying to create a double account can invalidate your results and affect your accreditation process.
So, use your original details and open an account.
Here is the application process;
- Read the NABCEP certification handbook before you begin the application process. You are strongly advised to read this handbook carefully and understand it before you begin your application, as this book contains the requirements for application and will prevent you from encountering any form of confusion during the application process.
- Visit the NABCEP website and insert your details to start the registration process.
- Fulfill the eligibility criteria. You are required to meet the experience and advanced training requirements before taking the exam. You will need to provide details of your experience and training. The eligibility requirement differs depending on the particular board certification you are going for. You will find all details in the handbook.
- Commence application: Once you have confirmed that you meet all prerequisites, then you can begin filling in the necessary details on the form. This will include details like; contact information, advanced training, and experience.
- Application review: After you have submitted your application, it will be up for review. We will review it to ensure that it meets the eligibility requirements and that your experience and training align with what is required from the handbook. This review process takes between 5 to 10 days but can sometimes extend to 30 days, depending on the volume of applications we receive at the time of your application.
- Payment: Two types of payments you will make during this process. Firstly, you will make a payment when submitting the application form. Again, you will make a payment when your application has been approved, and you are scheduled to take the exam. After paying your fee, you will receive an email containing information about your exam and how to schedule it. From the date of application approval by NABCEP, you are eligible to take the exam for two years (applies for all exams except the System Inspector exams, which must be taken within 6 months), and you may take it up to four times during that period.
- Schedule exam appointment: The final step is to schedule a date for the exam and take it.
After you have taken the exam and passed it, you will become a NABCEP certified solar installer.
