Solar technology has enjoyed an incredible boost in popularity in recent years. Moreover, the projection for the coming decade is even more favorable than ever.
Leading the charge of helping regular people take advantage of the power that this exciting technology has to offer are solar technicians who are responsible for installing and maintaining the components that make harnessing solar energy possible.
To perform their jobs at the very highest level, solar technicians in Philadelphia and anywhere else in the country must pass through an accredited training program.
In the list below, we look at some of the most popular training programs and the qualities that make them stand out.
How to Become a Solar Technician in Philadelphia
Three things are most important for aspiring solar technicians in Philadelphia to consider. The first is the essential requirement needed to secure admission into a training program, the second is the type of training they would like to go for, and the third is the licensing requirement.
As for the essential requirement, most training programs only ask that candidates have a high school diploma or GED and proficiency in the English language.
The most common alternative for training options is to enroll in a college or vocational school or get training on the job. Lastly, solar technicians in Philadelphia are expected to obtain the license not on a statewide level but from their particular counties and municipalities.
Top Solar Technician Schools in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Having understood the requirements involved in becoming a solar technician in Philadelphia, the following are some of the top schools in and around the city:
1. Central Pennsylvania Institute of Science and Technology
The Central Pennsylvania Institute of Science and Technology is one of the most popular destinations for acquiring high-quality solar technology training in the area. The program in question is the Solar Photovoltaic Technician/Installer program which can be completed in seven months and includes 610 clock hours.
To apply, candidates must have a high school diploma or GED and have no criminal record.
The course focuses on hands-on mechanical, electrical, and technical training in solar photovoltaic systems fundamentals, principles of photovoltaic components, design parameters, and more.
Graduates of the program will have acquired the skills they’ll need to secure employment and obtain certification from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners.
The program begins in January and July each year. Graduates can work as solar photovoltaic installers, solar thermal installers, installation managers, and energy engineers.
2. Solar Energy International
Solar Energy International offers one of the most prominent online training options for aspiring solar technicians. The organization is non-profit and has existed for more than 25 years.
Among its numerous courses in renewable energy is the Fundamentals of Photovoltaic Design and Installation course, which consists of nine compulsory courses, each lasting for six weeks.
For even extensive hands-on training, the organization hosts laboratory sessions lasting just four days.
Among other things, students get to enjoy a flexible schedule and the opportunity of learning under qualified, experienced instructors who have actively worked in the solar industry.
3. Penn State World Campus
The Penn State World Campus at the Outreach Building University Park in Pennsylvania offers interested individuals the opportunity to earn a graduate certificate in solar energy.
The program includes 12 credits, most of which can be completed online. Under the tutelage of experienced instructors, students get to learn topics such as solar energy project perspective, design tools, financing tools, solar energy conversion theories, and design practices, among others.
Required courses include commercial solar electric systems, project development and finance, solar resource assessment and economics, and utility solar power and concentration.
4. Solarize Philly
Solarize Philly is an initiative of the Philadelphia Energy Authority (PEA) that seeks to train young people for employment in the solar industry. The program has partnered with numerous organizations, such as the School District of Philadelphia, to provide high school students with training and paid internship opportunities.
The program also supports a fellowship program to train individuals between 18 and 30 through a 680-hour course focusing on advanced solar training.
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