Getting Started in the Solar Industry: NABCEP PV Associate Credential
A great place to start in the solar industry is the NABCEP PV Associate Program.It’s a globally recognized,no-experience-required, entry-level credential in solar that will show potential employers you’ve learned the basics of solar power, passed an exam, and are ready to work.
To qualify for the NABCEP PV Associate Exam, you must complete the four required courses: Basic Photovoltaics (PV 101), PV Site Assessment (PV 201), PV System Design (PV 202), and PV Exam Prep (PV 220). For most NABCEP Board Certifications, the first required step is the PV Associate credential.
Required Courses For NABCEP PV Associate Exam Eligibility
We’ve made it easy for students to navigate and work through the course requirements by creating course packages available online or in-person. You also have the option to purchase each course individually. Please note that individual courses do not include the textbook ($100). You’ll receive a certificate of completion after each course is completed.
Participants in this eight-hour course will study the fundamentals of electricity, learn how photovoltaic (PV) cells and systems work, explore the different sizes and types of PV systems, and identify the components and equipment needed for each type of system. Learners will determine the solar resource for their area and review mounting options for optimal system performance and energy production. The course ends with a summary of the costs and incentive programs associated with PV, as well as the environmental and other non-financial benefits of renewable energy.
This eight-hour course demonstrates how to perform a residential or small commercial PV site assessment. Participants will learn how to perform a load analysis and make energy efficiency recommendations, determine the best location for a PV array given the site’s solar resource and available mounting options, and identify a proper location for the balance of system components. Online tools and calculators will be used to calculate an appropriate PV system size and estimate its annual production, and emphasis will be placed on financing terms and concepts so students can assess total system costs, convey incentive opportunities, and perform a cash flow analysis.
This 16-hour course teaches the step-by-step process of designing a PV system. Participants will learn about system sizing strategies based on a number of variables, selecting appropriate equipment for each system type, analyzing data from a site assessment in the design process, planning the physical layout of the array, choosing a mounting method, applying relevant building and electrical code requirements, and calculating electrical values of system voltage, current, power, and energy production.
This four-hour course is for those who are ready to take the NABCEP PV Associate exam, or any entry-level exam in photovoltaics. We’ll discuss test-taking strategies, review the logistics of the NABCEP PV Associate exam, and use a practice exam to prepare you for test day.
This four-hour course provides participants with fundamental terms and concepts to better understand how electrical circuits work, and how to stay safe when working with or near electricity.
Program Expectations: Prerequisite training or experience in electrical/plumbing systems, mathematics, and related subjects may be required to fully grasp and meet the course objectives. Students are encouraged to dedicate additional time outside of class (equal to the in-class hours) for review, problem-solving, and studying reference materials before taking the Associate Exam. This is especially crucial for intensive short courses and online programs.
Target Audience: Students in renewable energy programs, early-stage professionals, experienced workers entering renewable energy, or those in renewable energy jobs without specific certification.
Note: This training is also applicable for individuals interested in learning the fundamentals of solar photovoltaics, and not necessarily looking to earn a credential.
Associate Renewal Information
To maintain your NABCEP PV Associate Credential, Associates must obtain 12 hours of continuing education (CE) completed during your 3-year credential period. Details can be found in section 10 of the NABCEP Associate Handbook.
You may submit your Renewal Application during the third (3rd) year of your current credential period. You are required to log in to your myNABCEP account to complete and submit a renewal application electronically for review.
MREA offers a variety of courses approved for PV Associate Renewal continuing education.
You will need 12 hours of continuing education every three years to maintain your PV Associate Credential. Here is a list of MREA courses that count for credit. You can mix and match based on your area of interest. Many of these courses are also approved for advanced training credits for NABCEP Board Certifications.
Associates may submit their Renewal Application during the third (3rd) year of their current credential period. Associates are required to log in to their account to complete and submit a renewal application electronically for review. Please follow these steps to renew:
Under Credentialing in your account, click on the corresponding credential workflow.
Complete the Renewal Code of Ethics and Fee phase. (The Code of Ethics and renewal fee is required before Certificants may enter renewal requirements.)
Complete the Renewal Requirements phase and steps.
Upload required documentation and submit for review. You can access your MREA course history and download your letters of completion from your student dashboard within 30 days of course completion. Please contact courses@midwestrenew.org if you require your course transcripts.
The NABCEP PV Associate Program recognizes individuals who have demonstrated knowledge of the fundamental principles of the application, design, installation, and operation of Photovoltaic energy systems. Pursuing MREA’s entry-level solar training and obtaining your NABCEP PV Associate Credential opens doors to promising career opportunities in the rapidly growing solar industry while ensuring a recognized standard of expertise in renewable energy technologies. NABCEP’s Associate Program is beneficial for those new to the industry, installers, experienced workforce personnel, employers, and the public. Possessing a NABCEP Associate Credential signals your commitment to a career in renewables to potential employers.
Property of the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners® (NABCEP®), used here with permission.
