Solar Jobs, Education, and Training Programs
There are a number of opportunities for entering the solar industry workforce. Surveys suggest that employment in the solar industry has grown in South Carolina. Below are additional resources on job growth in South Carolina’s solar industry:
Certifications
Professional certification programs can also add to an installer or contractor’s credibility.
The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) ensures solar installers have the knowledge and skills to meet the demands of renewable energy projects and employers across the world.
Developed by subject matter experts for industry professionals, their United States-based certifications are built on rigorous standards and ongoing research to meet the real-world needs of consumers, businesses, utility companies, and governmental organizations.
Learn more about NABCEP Certification Programs.
Solar Education and Training Programs
Education and training programs can help inform potential or current installers and contractors on how to properly install and maintain a solar electric system.
The Graduate Certificate in Power and Energy is designed to provide students with a unique perspective, essential knowledge, and advanced engineering skills needed by today's practicing mechanical engineer. The courses are focused on design and directly applicable to design applications in current industry and research. The program includes a course in “Advanced Topics in Renewable Energy Systems.”
Format: on-campus
Clemson offers Certificate Programs in Renewable Energy, Power Systems Engineering, and Advanced Power Systems Engineering.
- The Renewable Energy certificate consists of three classes in the areas of solar power, wind power, and grid penetration.
- The Power Systems Engineering certificate program consists of three classes in the areas of power engineering, power systems analysis, and electric machines.
- To earn the Advanced Power Systems Engineering certificate, a student must successfully complete four of five classes in the areas of power systems protection, dynamics/stability, transients, and distribution.
Format: online or on-campus
Greenville Technical College offers Three Certificate Programs in Solar Energy Technology Basics, Solar Photovoltaic Systems, and Solar Photovoltaic Design and Installation.
Format: on-campus
The Renewable Energy Technician Certificate provides a fundamental knowledge of electrical wiring, particularly as it applies to the growing field of alternative energy. Students are also given hands-on training in both roof-mount and ground-mount solar panel installation, energy storage installation and management, and other alternative energy options. Students become familiar with electrical codes, ordinances, print reading and electricity fundamentals. Courses taken in this program may be applied toward the Diploma in Industrial Electricity if students later elect to pursue this program.
Format: on-campus
Technical College of the Lowcountry’s Solar Photovoltaic Certificate program teaches students to install, maintain, and repair solar photovoltaic systems. Students will gain substantial knowledge of solar technologies and electrical installations equivalent to a master electrician. Hands-on courses include AC/DC circuits; electrical installations and code; basic solar energy technology; and solar photovoltaic systems design and installation. The Solar Thermal Technician Certificate program teaches students to design, install, maintain, and repair solar thermal systems. Students will enhance their skillset beyond the basic plumbing certificate by learning both solar thermal technologies and plumbing. Hands-on courses include tools and usage safety, plumbing installations and repair, basic solar energy technology, and solar thermal systems design and installation.
Format: on-campus
In the online Solar Power Professional program, students learn the fundamentals of photovoltaic solar-powered energy systems and gain the knowledge needed for an entry-level position with a dealer, installer, or other photovoltaic industry company.
Format: online
The Solar Rating and Certification Corporation (ICC-SRCC™) certifies solar heating and cooling product products in North America. In addition, ICC-SRCC is licensed by the US Environmental Protection Agency to certify residential solar water heaters under the ENERGY STAR® program.