Solar Thermal Installers and Technicians

Certification or Licensing

Many solar installers and technicians are licensed as general contractors. They can also receive voluntary certification from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). The Electronics Technicians Association offers several certifications in renewable energy technology. Many technicians choose to become certified by the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies. To become certified, a technician must have a specific amount of job-related experience.

The Solar Energy Industries Alliance reports that “12 states and Puerto Rico require solar-specific licenses in order to engage in solar work. Generally, a solar certification is a specialty area for a general electrical or plumbing license; therefore, a contractor with a general license may engage in solar work.” Those who are employed in positions that may affect the power grid must be certified by the North American Energy Reliability Corporation.