The cost of installing solar panels has been reduced by more than 70 percent in the last ten years alone. As this figure continues to decrease, more and more people embrace the cleanliness of solar energy.
Solar technicians have been at the forefront of helping people begin their solar adoption. And even though this is true in most states, Las Vegas remains one of the best for starting a career as a solar technician.
Of course, before you begin a career as a solar tech, you must have a few things in mind, including how to start. You don’t have to worry, though. We discuss these things in comprehensive detail in the upcoming sections below.
How to Become a Solar Technician in Nevada
Anyone looking to become a solar technician in Nevada must go through the following steps:
Fulfill Basic Requirements
The basic requirements for enrolling in a solar technology training program include:
- Having a high school diploma or GED
- Having a driver’s license
- Being safety-conscious
- Having a solid foundation in mathematics, physics, electronics, and computer science
Obtain Proper Training
There are two education options for aspiring solar technicians - attending a college program or obtaining training on the job.
On-the-Job Training
Training on the job as a solar technician means that you’re working as one from the first day of training. You get the learn the ins and outs of the job from master technicians who serve as teachers and mentors at the same time.
This is usually advisable for experienced trade workers who move from one trade field to solar technology.
Advanced Degree
Advanced degree programs are available for solar technicians seeking formal training before securing employment. Apart from providing a solid technical base to start a career, these programs also make seeking employment easier, as employers are often partial to technicians with a degree.
Obtain Certifications
Solar technicians in Nevada choose to become certified not because they have to do so according to the law but because it helps them stand out, especially when seeking employment.
The Electronics Technicians Association offers certifications across various sectors, and aspiring solar technicians may consider the Photovoltaic Installer - Level 1 certification. Other options to consider are the credentials provided by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners and Roof Integrated Solar Energy.
Obtain State License
Like most states in the country, Nevada requires its solar technicians to obtain appropriate licenses belonging to their areas of specialization before they can practice. We take a look at the options available in this regard below.
Consider Trades with Similar Paths:
Top Solar Technician Schools in Nevada
1. University of Las Vegas, Nevada
The University of Las Vegas, Nevada, produces some of the best solar technicians in the state through its solar technology training program. Students are trained in topics such as introduction to solar photovoltaic systems and PV design and installation.
The program is divided into two distinct categories - the Solar and Renewable Energy Minor and the Solar and Renewable Energy Graduate Certificate.
2. Solar Energy International
Solar Energy International offers high-quality training to aspiring solar technicians nationwide. The organization often partners with the Electrical JTAC of Southern Nevada to provide what they refer to as “the most advanced training offered in the industry.”
These programs boast of having highly experienced instructors, most of whom are master solar technicians themselves.
3. Other Online Options
Other online options to consider include the solar technology training program offered by Solairgen. This program allows candidates to select their flexible schedule. Graduates of their courses also qualify to sit for the NABCEP certification exam.
Another option is the day, evening, and night Solar Assessor course offered by Century College. This program can be completed entirely online and lasts for a total of 4 months.
Explore Solar Technician Schools by City:
Licensure Requirements
The body responsible for licensing solar technicians in Nevada is the Nevada State Contractors Board. There are a few options to consider in this regard.
The first is the license classification C-37 for solar contracting, which is the most specific for any solar-related work. Solar technicians may also consider a broader license for plumbing and heating, which is the Classification C-1 license, which will qualify them to perform solar work, specifically solar thermal installations.
Salary and Job Outlook
Solar technicians in Nevada earn an annual salary of $48,397, almost the same as the national average in other states. Of course, making higher or lower than this figure is possible depending on factors such as location and experience level.
Technicians just starting often earn around $34,621, while those in the top 10 percent may take home around $67,655 on average per year.
The BLS predicts a 27% rise in demand for solar technicians between 2021 to 2031.
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