PVCMS Specialists combine the skill sets of operations, maintenance, and commissioning tasks into one job specialty
Prerequisites: PV 101, 201 & 202 (or equivalent training) or NABCEP PV Associate credential
PVCMS Course Package
This course package will provide you with the 18 HOURS of advanced PV training and 6 HOURS of NEC training required to meet the educational requirements for the NABCEP PVCMS exam, per section 6.8.2 of the Certification Handbook.
Please note that this course package does NOT cover every task step outlined in NABCEP’s PVCMS Job Task Analysis, so additional experience, training, and/or independent study will be necessary to prepare you for every possible question you may see on the PVCMS exam. This is not an “exam prep” course package.
Package Details
Courses Included in this Package
You will be taking 3 online courses and a 2-day in-person training session. This course package will provide you with the 18 HOURS of advanced PV training and 6 HOURS of NEC training required to meet the educational requirements for the NABCEP PVCMS exam, per section 6.8.2 of the Certification Handbook.
This six-hour online course is designed for first-time users or those looking for a refresher on Code fundamentals, this course explains the layout, format, and language of the NEC and explores its contents of Chapters, Articles, and Tables.
Course Details
This four-hour course reviews National Electrical Code (NEC) requirements, paying particular attention to Articles 690 and 705. It also covers equipment listing and labeling requirements, circuit calculations, wiring methods, grounding, overcurrent protection, system labeling requirements, and common Code violations. Electricians, electrical contractors, PV installers, and inspectors will learn about NEC requirements and best practices for PV systems.
Course Details
PV System O&M Fundamentals (PV 425)
This four-hour course is designed to provide current and aspiring solar energy technicians with an understanding of the periodic maintenance required to ensure optimal energy production over the lifetime of a photovoltaic (PV) system.
Course Details
Introduction to System Advisor Model (SAM) (PV 430)
This five-hour course introduces participants to the System Advisor Model (SAM). SAM is a free software for techno-economic modeling of renewable energy projects provided by the U.S. Department of Energy National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) and is used by project developers, system designers, researchers, and others involved in making technical and financial decisions about renewable energy projects.
Course DetailsRoof-Mount PV System Design & Installation Lab (PV 312)
Participants in this 2-day course receive hands-on training and will install a roof-mounted PV system. Students will identify layout considerations, component specifications, mechanical integration best practices, and National Electrical Code (NEC) requirements related to the system. Voltage, current, and power calculations in the NEC will be covered in depth.
Fire Code Regulations for PV Systems (PV 620)
This course is not required.
This is a complementary 1-hour online course that you can start anytime, focused on providing essential PV safety information to inspectors, AHJs, and PV system designers and installers.
Course Details
What is a PV Commissioning & Maintenance Specialist?
The PV Commissioning and Maintenance Specialist (PVCMS) NABCEP Board Certification highlights your expertise in the areas of operations, maintenance, and commissioning. It spotlights your ability to apply verification protocols, critically analyze systems, and implement preventive and corrective maintenance procedures for PV systems.
