Glasgow | Solar PV Installation Course

Q: How do I become a solar PV installer?

If you are interested in becoming a solar PV installer in the UK, there are certain steps you need to take. Firstly, it is important that you have an understanding of electrical circuits and electrical safety practices. You can obtain this by taking training courses such as NVQ Level 3 in Electrical Installation or equivalent. You should also be familiar with the workings of photovoltaic systems, including the components and safety regulations. Secondly, you will need to obtain accreditation from a recognised body such as NAPIT and become MCS approved. This will give you access to funding schemes and demonstrate your skills and qualifications. Finally, you need to ensure that you have the right tools and equipment for the job. This could include specialist testing and measuring equipment, a range of connectors and fixing materials, as well as safety clothing and protective gear. Once you are ready to start installing solar PV systems, it is important that you follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and work to the highest standards. By taking these steps, you will be able to demonstrate your competence as a solar PV installer in the UK and become a part of an industry which is growing rapidly. The renewable energy sector offers plenty of opportunities for those who are prepared to invest in their skills and knowledge. With the right training, you can become a qualified installer, giving homes and businesses access to clean energy sources.

Q: How long is a solar panel course?

Our solar pv course for qualified electricians is a 4 day course with an additional day for battery storage.

Q: What does a solar panel installation course cover?

Solar panel installation training courses provide education and hands-on experience in installing photovoltaic (PV) systems that convert sunlight into usable energy. The courses cover the fundamentals of solar panel installation, including safety protocols, electrical wiring, and system design. Participants learn how to install panels on various roof types and orientations, as well as how to commission and maintain the solar panel system. Solar panel installation courses also provide an overview of the energy market and the financial benefits of solar energy. With the increasing demand for renewable energy sources, solar panel installation is a growing industry, and those trained in installation can find job opportunities in both residential and commercial markets. Taking a solar panel installation course is a valuable investment for those looking to enter the energy sector and make a positive impact on the environment.

Glasgow | Solar PV Installation Course – Scotland

£ 850 +VAT

5 Days

Our 5-day Solar PV Installation and Battery Storage Course in Glasgow offers a comprehensive qualification tailored for those seeking expertise in the installation, commissioning, troubleshooting, and maintenance of photovoltaic systems. This course emphasises adherence to industry regulations and best practises, ensuring participants are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in solar energy installations.

Course overview

The Glasgow-based Solar PV Installation and Battery Storage Course encompasses a variety of essential topics. These include safety protocols for electrical systems, the components and principles of photovoltaic systems, and the practical skills required for the installation and upkeep of small-scale systems. Successful completion of this course certifies the learner’s proficiency in photovoltaic system installation and maintenance, qualifying them for MCS registration.

Entry Requirements

Level 3 Electrotechnical vocational qualification
Level 3 Certification in Electrical Installation Initial Verification and Certification
Level 3 Award in BS7671 Electrical Installation Requirements (current edition)

Solar PV Exams

A practical observed assignment and one online assessment with multiple choice and multiple response questions are used for assessment. The examinations are open-book and based on the relevant regulations & standards.

Modules breakdown

Understand the risks to one’s health and safety, as well as the safe work systems associated with solar photovoltaic system installation.
Understand the applicable regulations/standards’ requirements for practical installation, testing, and commissioning activities for solar photovoltaic system installation work.
Understand the fundamental distinctions between AC and DC circuits in solar photovoltaic systems.
Understand the function of solar photovoltaic system components.
Understand the different types, silicon properties, and typical conversion efficiencies of solar photovoltaic modules.
Understand the fundamental design principles that are used to determine the size and position of solar photovoltaic system module arrays.
Understand the prerequisites for solar photovoltaic system installation work.
Understand the layouts and specifications for installing solar photovoltaic module arrays.
Know the DC and AC circuit installation layouts for solar photovoltaic systems within the scope of the relevant Engineering Recommendation for grid-tied systems.
Understand the techniques and components used to protect solar photovoltaic systems.
Understand the requirements for testing and commissioning solar photovoltaic systems.
Understand the requirements for solar photovoltaic system handover.
Understand how to plan and prepare for a solar photovoltaic system installation.
Understand how to assemble solar photovoltaic system components.
Understand how to inspect and test a newly installed solar photovoltaic system.
Understand how to install a new solar photovoltaic system.
Understand how to hand over the installation of a new solar photovoltaic system.
Understand the requirements for routine solar photovoltaic system inspection, service, and maintenance.
Understand how to troubleshoot solar photovoltaic system installations.
Understand how to repair faults in solar photovoltaic systems.
Understand how to perform routine service and maintenance on a solar photovoltaic system installation.
Understand how to perform fault diagnosis on solar photovoltaic system installations.
Understand how to perform fault rectification on solar photovoltaic system installations.

Frequently Asked Solar PV Course Questions

How do I become a solar PV installer?

If you're aiming to become a solar PV installer in Scotland. here's a structured approach to follow:

Gain Fundamental Knowledge: Start by understanding electrical circuits and safety practises. Achieve this through courses like the NVQ Level 3 in Electrical Installation or equivalent. Additionally, familiarise yourself with the components and safety regulations of photovoltaic systems.

Obtain Accreditation and Approval: Secure accreditation from a recognised body, such as NAPIT, and get MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme) approval. This not only allows you to access funding schemes but also validates your skills and qualifications.

Equip Yourself Properly: Ensure you have the necessary tools and equipment. This includes specialised testing and measuring devices, various connectors and fixing materials, and safety clothing and gear.

Follow Best Practices: When you start installing solar PV systems, adhere strictly to the manufacturer’s guidelines and maintain the highest work standards.

By following these steps, you can establish your competence as a solar PV installer in Glasgow, a sector experiencing significant growth. The renewable energy field offers numerous opportunities for those willing to enhance their skills and knowledge. Proper training and qualifications can set you on the path to becoming a skilled installer, helping homes and businesses transition to clean energy sources.

What qualifications do you need to fit solar PV?

In order to fit solar photovoltaic (PV) technology, a recognised qualification is required in the UK. You should have the following qualifications: NVQ/SVQ Level 3 in Electrical Installations, 18th Edition, inspection & Testing, Level 3 Award In the Installation and Maintenance of Small Scale Solar Photovoltaic Systems.

How long is a solar panel course?

Our solar pv course for qualified electricians is a 3 day course with an additional 2 days for battery storage.

Can any electrician install solar panels?

An electrician should have the above noted qualifications as well as being a member of a competenet persons scheme (CPS) such as Select, Napit or NICEIC.

Which accreditation bodies offer the Solar PV Qualification?

The main accreditation bodies offering this are LCL Awards, City & Guilds and BPEC.

City & Guilds 2399-13 Solar PV Installation

BPEC Level 3 Award Solar PV Installer

LCL Awards Level 3 Award In the Installation and Maintenance of Small Scale Solar Photovoltaic Systems

Is a career in solar energy worth it?

The solar energy industry offers a range of exciting opportunities for those looking to make a difference in the world. With increasing pressure on governments to reduce their carbon impact, the sector is expected to continue its rapid growth in the coming years.

So what can you expect by pursuing a career in solar energy? For starters, you can expect to be part of a global movement that is helping to reduce our carbon footprint and mitigate the effects of climate change. Solar energy is a renewable, clean energy source and as such it can provide people with a reliable power source that doesn't damage the environment.

You can also expect to be rewarded well for your hard work. According to the UK government, salaries in solar energy are typically higher than those in other industries. This is due to the higher qualifications and skill sets required by employers in this field.

In addition, solar energy careers offer a wide range of options. You can choose to work in the installation, manufacturing and maintenance of solar panels, or perhaps you'd prefer to pursue a career in the research and development of new solar technologies.

No matter which option you choose, pursuing a career in solar energy is sure to be rewarding. Whether you're looking to make a difference in the world or just want to enjoy a stable and lucrative career, solar energy could be the perfect choice for you.

Do you need to be MCS registered to install solar PV?

Without MCS certification, a consumer is unable to take advantage of financial incentives and funding schemes for renewable installations. Therefore, even though it is not a legal requirement, MCS certification is often a necessary step for homeowners and businesses looking to benefit from the scheme.

Furthermore, MCS certification is the recognised mark of quality in the renewable energy industry, which also helps to ensure that installers are appropriately qualified and experienced in their field. So whilst it's not not legally mandated, many installers are choosing to become MCS certified in order to access the financial benefits and demonstrate quality of work.

You can find out further information by visiting the MCS website.

What does a solar panel installation course cover?

Solar panel installation training courses are an essential gateway into the burgeoning field of renewable energy, particularly for those interested in photovoltaic (PV) systems. These courses offer a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience, focusing on key aspects such as:

Fundamentals of Solar Panel Installation: Understanding the basics of how solar panels function, including the conversion of sunlight into usable energy.

Safety Protocols: Emphasizing the importance of safety in handling electrical wiring and components, ensuring adherence to industry-standard safety measures.

Electrical Wiring and System Design: Teaching the intricacies of electrical systems associated with solar panels, along with the design principles of PV systems.

Practical Installation Skills: Providing hands-on experience in installing solar panels on various types of roofs and orientations, crucial for real-world applications.

Commissioning and Maintenance: Training on how to get solar panel systems up and running and how to maintain them for optimal performance and longevity.

Understanding the Energy Market: Offering insights into the broader energy market, highlighting the role and financial benefits of solar energy in today's world.

Given the increasing global focus on renewable energy sources, the demand for skilled solar panel installers is on the rise. These training courses open doors to numerous job opportunities in both residential and commercial sectors. For those seeking a career that combines technical skills with environmental impact, enrolling in a solar panel installation course is a valuable step towards entering the energy sector and contributing to sustainable solutions.

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