NABCEP Certification – PV Associate (Exam Cost Included)

Whether you're just starting out in the solar industry or looking to enhance your skills, our solar training course is tailored for individuals at various stages of their renewable energy careers – from renewable energy programs and early-career workers to those already working in renewable energy jobs without a professional certification or degree.

You will gain insights into the driving forces behind the rapid growth of the solar industry, understanding the key factors that shape the demand for solar energy. We will explore the advantages and considerations of solar photovoltaics (PV) and delve into the intricacies of PV system components and sizing.

Our North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners® (NABCEP®) solar certification course, in partnership with Everblue, will provide you with the expertise to design and optimize solar PV systems. You will develop a solid foundation in the fundamentals of electricity and safety, ensuring you are well-versed in the crucial principles and practices for working safely in the solar industry.

Upon completion, you will be eligible to sit for the PV Associate exam offered by the NABCEP. The NABCEP certification is highly regarded in the solar industry and will distinguish you as a qualified solar professional. The fee for this exam is included with the course.

By completing our solar installer certification course, you will not only fulfill the educational prerequisite for the NABCEP PV Associate exam but also gain the knowledge and expertise to excel in the solar industry—helping you open new career opportunities and validate your competence in the field.

Please note: If interested in the PV Installation certification exam, enroll in the NABCEP Certification – PV Installation Professional course, which includes Solar Panel Installer Training, Solar Energy Training content, OSHA 10 training, and dedicated exam preparation.

What you will learn

• Understand the factors driving the growth and demand in the solar industry, such as government policies, environmental concerns, and the decreasing cost of solar panels
• Review the benefits and limitations of solar photovoltaics (PV), including the positive environmental impact, energy independence, and cost savings associated with solar PV systems and the challenges of their installation and operation
• Discover the essential components of a solar PV system, including solar panels, inverters, charge controllers, and batteries—and how they capture, convert, and store solar energy
• Master the art of sizing PV systems to ensure optimal performance and efficiency
• Acquire electrical concepts to better emphasize safety practices, including voltage, current, and power, and how they relate to solar PV systems
• Develop a strong foundation in electricity safety protocols to create a secure work environment and mitigate potential hazards on the job site

How you will benefit

• By comprehending the advantages and disadvantages of solar PV, you can make smarter choices on the job site that enable effective negotiation and provide tailored solutions for customers
• Understanding PV system sizing optimizes the design and installation of solar energy systems, leading to maximum energy production and cost savings while avoiding unnecessary expenses
• A solid foundation in electricity basics ensures your safety and success on the job site—enabling you to troubleshoot issues, make proper connections, and maintain a secure working environment in solar PV

1. Solar Design Training
   1. History of Solar
   2. Solar Energy Systems
   3. Evaluate Solar Resources
   4. Load Analysis
   5. Solar Photovoltaic Systems
   6. Solar Hot Water Systems
   7. System Maintenance
   8. Safety
   9. PV Markets & Application
   10. Safety Basics
   11. Electrical Basics
   12. Solar Energy Fundamentals
   13. PV Module Fundamentals
   14. System Components
   15. PV System Sizing Principles
   16. PV System Electrical Design
   17. PV System Mechanical Design
   18. Performance Analysis
   19. Life Cycle Costing
   20. Efficiency vs. Renewable Energy
   21. Incentive Mechanisms
   22. Grid Inter-Connectivity
   23. The Big Picture
2. Certification
   1. PV Associate Certification Exam

Requirements:

Hardware Requirements:

• This course can be taken on either a PC, Mac, or Chromebook.

Software Requirements:

• PC: Windows 10 or later.
• Mac: macOS 12 or later.
• Browser: The latest version of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox is preferred. Microsoft Edge and Safari are also compatible.
• Microsoft Word Online
• Adobe Acrobat Reader
• Software must be installed and fully operational before the course begins.

Other:

• Email capabilities and access to a personal email account.

Instructional Material Requirements:

The instructional materials required for this course are included in enrollment and will be available online.

Prerequisites:

There are no prerequisites to complete this course.

Please note: If interested in the PV Installation certification exam, enroll in the NABCEP Certification – PV Installation Professional course, which includes Solar Panel Installer Training, Solar Energy Training content, OSHA 10 training, and dedicated exam preparation.

Chris Boggiano

Chris Boggiano is a respected professional known for his expertise in engineering and education. Holding the position of President at Everblue, he leads the organization with a passion for innovation and a commitment to excellence. Chris is a distinguished graduate of the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, where he cultivated strong leadership skills and a dedication to continuous learning. With a solid foundation in engineering, he has garnered extensive experience in the field, contributing significantly to various projects and initiatives.

In addition to his role as an engineer, Chris serves as Everblue's Head Curriculum Developer, showcasing his exceptional ability to design educational programs that inspire and empower. His innovative approach to curriculum development has earned him recognition, making a meaningful impact on the educational landscape. Chris' dedication to shaping future generations through education and his rich background in engineering reflects his unwavering commitment to making a difference in the world of learning and professional development.

What is the average solar panel installer salary?

According to Indeed, the average solar panel installer salary is $69,242 annually in the U.S., with $7,500 in overtime per year as of October 19, 2023.

Does this course prepare you for a certification?

Yes. You will be prepared for the NABCEP PV Associate exam. The exam is a globally recognized certification offered by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). This exam serves as an entry-level credential in the field of solar photovoltaics (PV) and validates an individual's understanding of basic solar PV principles and concepts. The fee for this exam is included with the course.

When can I start this course?

This course is open enrollment, so you can register and start the course whenever you are ready. Access to your course can take 24-48 business hours.

How long does it take to complete this course?

After you register, you will receive 3 months to complete the course. The time allotted for completion has been calculated based on the number of course hours.

What if I don't have enough time to complete the course within the time frame provided?

The time allotted for course completion has been calculated based on the number of course hours. However, if you are unable to complete the course, contact the student advising team to see what options you may have available to work out a suitable completion date. Please note that an extension fee may be charged.

What kind of support will I receive?

Our courses are designed to accommodate various learning preferences. Depending on the course structure, you may get different forms of support. Self-paced courses are designed to be user-friendly and independent, minimizing the need for external support. In courses with instructors, our direct platform support feature includes opportunities for questions, discussions, and remediation, with email and phone support available for select courses. Our student advising team is available to guide you on program requirements and administrative requests, but they do not provide assistance with course content. Our goal is to provide you with the necessary support for success, whether it's through self-paced exploration, direct communication, or guidance from our advising team.

What happens when I complete the course?

Upon successfully passing the final exam, you will be awarded a certificate of completion from the school or organization that you registered through.

Am I guaranteed a job?

Hope Training Academy courses will help you gain the skills you need to obtain an entry-level position in most cases. However, you should always research the job market in your area before enrolling.

Can I get financial assistance?

Hope Training Academy courses are non-credit, so they do not qualify for federal aid, FAFSA, and Pell Grant. In some states, vocational rehab or workforce development boards may provide funding to take our courses. Additionally, you may qualify for financial assistance if you meet certain requirements. Learn more about financial assistance.

How can I get more information about this course?

If you have questions that are not answered on our website, representatives are available by phone. You can also call us at 1-855-532-7642 during regular business hours to have your questions promptly answered. If you are visiting us during non-business hours, please send us a question using the "Contact Us."