HART 1071 Solar Electric Systems, Entry-Level 42.0 Hours
A beginner course in the study of solar photovoltaic (PV) cells, modules, and system components; electrical circuits; PV system design and sizing for use on homes; solar electric products and applications; and understanding energy conversion from sunlight to electricity, and working with solar conversion equipment. The 42-hour course is designed for students to be eligible to take the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) Photovoltaic (PV) Entry Level Certificate of Knowledge Exam (for reference).
This program is designed for those individuals wanting to get into the solar field and will be a way for them to show that they have achieved basic knowledge, comprehension and application of key terms and concepts of photovoltaic (solar electric) system operations. The certificate will demonstrate that the student has passed an industry-designed exam based on learning objectives developed by subject matter experts. As the market grows for photovoltaics, students holding this industry-sponsored NABCEP Entry Level Certificate of Knowledge will find that their employment opportunities are enhanced by starting the job with an understanding of the basic terms and operational aspects of a PV system. However, the Certificate by itself does not qualify an individual to install PV systems.
Taking the NABCEP exam at the end of the course is optional. There is an additional fee for the NABCEP exam. Only students who complete the course and pass the NABCEP exam will receive the NABCEP Photovoltaic (PV) Entry Level Certificate of Knowledge. Students who pass the course but elect not to take the NABCEP exam will receive an ACC certificate of completion.
HART 1072 Advanced Solar Photovoltaic Installer 48.0 Hours
An advanced course in the proper design and installation of NEC code-compliant solar photovoltaic (PV) systems for use on residential and commercial buildings. Course includes: sizing of solar electric systems; specification of system components; and sizing of DC/AC wiring. Prepares students for the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) Solar Photovoltaic (PV) System Installer certification exam after meeting all of the experience requirements. This course is designed for those involved in the solar industry or a related field and is intended for licensed electricians, contractors, or those with a strong understanding of solar electric systems and electrical principles.
What It Takes to Be Successful
The technician installing solar equipment may encounter a variety of physical and environmental challenges. The following Educational Prerequisites and Technical Standards are provided to help students understand some of the physical requirements required to be successful in this industry.
Educational Prerequisites
There are no required educational prerequisites for the Industry Certification Courses.
Technical Standards
- experience in the solar electric field
- or experience in electrical work
- or experience in engineering
- or completion of HART 1071 (introductory PV installer course)
- or ability in the following: advanced math (use of formulas, use of trigonometry functions), problem solving, use of a calculator, electricity concepts, solar resource principles, solar electric system components
- ability to speak, write, and read English
- ability to lift 40 pounds
- ability to tolerate heights of 20 feet or more
- ability to tolerate adverse weather conditions (i.e. extremes in temperatures)