New Hampshire is a wonderful location in which to work as a solar technician. The state is more than receptive to the idea of renewable energy, and there are several platforms for career opportunities as a fresh solar technician here.
In the following guide, individuals who would like to start their solar technician journey on the right path will find everything they need to know in order to achieve this goal. These include the right way to prepare, the top training approaches to consider, specific schools and training programs, and average annual salaries.
We also explore what to do concerning licensing and certification for career benefits.
How to Become a Solar Technician in New Hampshire
These are the steps necessary to enter the solar technician discipline as a resident of New Hampshire.
Basic Requirements and Relative Skills
Physical abilities, including lifting and climbing, are necessary to become a successful solar technician. Professionals in the field must also pay close attention to detail and have basic STEM knowledge, which can be developed in high school.
It is common for some training programs and apprenticeships to ask for a high school diploma or GED as a basic requirement to become a solar technician in New Hampshire.
Training Pathways
The two most common training pathways for prospective solar technicians in New Hampshire include apprenticeship programs and programs offered by academic institutions.
Completing an Apprenticeship
Apprenticeship destinations are the perfect way for prospective solar technicians to receive on-the-job training and develop valuable experience. As a prospective technician in the state, you can discover apprenticeship opportunities through professional organizations, trade unions, and even private companies.
Apprenticeship training as a solar technician can last for around 4 to 6 years. It can also come with an opportunity to earn during the training stages.
College Programs
College programs offer prospective solar technicians an opportunity to start their careers on a strong foundation with a degree or a certificate. Most can be completed in around one year, while those leading to associate degrees can be completed in two years.
Some training programs may collaborate with apprenticeship organizations to allow for a smooth transfer after program completion.
Explore trades with similar paths:
Licensure & Certification Requirements
In New Hampshire, solar technicians who want to make electrical connections during solar installation and panel racking will need an electrician’s license. However, they may also perform electrical work without a license as long as they are working under a licensed electrician.
The state body responsible for electrician licenses in New Hampshire is the New Hampshire Electricians’ Board.
Solar technicians in New Hampshire may pursue certification from professional organizations for career growth. Although they are not expected to do so by law, employers usually value certified professionals more than non-certified professionals.
The NABCEP PV Associate Certification is the most prominent credential to pursue for beginners. Those with more experience on the job may go for the NABCEP PV Installation Professional Certification.
Top Solar Technician Schools in New Hampshire
The following schools are notable for their prominent renewable energy and solar technician programs in New Hampshire.
NHTI Concord's Community College
Online, NH Online Only
NHTI Concord's Community College offers a flexible and well-rounded Solar Energy course designed for individuals aiming to enter the renewable energy field.
Tuition
$1,195 per ProgramContact
(855) 520-6806
Lakes Region Community College
Laconia, NH Campus Only
Lakes Region Community College offers in-person training through its Electrical Technologies program. The school provides two learning pathways. You can choose either the Electrical Systems Installation and Maintenance program or the Electrical Power and Control Technologies program.
Tuition
$215 - $490 per CreditContact
(603) 524-3207
lrccinfo@ccsnh.edu
University of New Hampshire
Online, NH Online Only
The University of New Hampshire offers a self-paced online Solar Panel Installer Training program through its Division of Professional Development and Training.
Tuition
$1,499 per ProgramContact
(855) 520-6806
Explore solar technician schools in New Hampshire by city:
Salary & Career Outlook
In New Hampshire, the annual average salary of a solar technician often reflects a professional’s level of experience. Those who have been in the field longer tend to command higher earnings compared to newcomers.
At the top end, solar technicians in New Hampshire can earn an average annual salary of $91,172, according to Indeed. Entry-level technicians, representing the lower end of the pay scale, also manage to bring in around $54,455 annually. For those in the median range, the typical salary stands at $70,461 per year.
Beyond experience, factors such as business structure and geographic location also influence income. When it comes to location, the highest-paying cities in the state are Nashua, Manchester, and Merrimack, offering annual average salaries of $71,950, $61,060, and $63,060, respectively.