Solar PV Training Course
Learn to design, install and commission rooftop solar photovoltaics with the UK’s leading specialist renewable energy training provider.
This 3-day training course is designed for experienced domestic and commercial electrical operatives who wish to add the installation and maintenance of this popular renewable electricity generating technology to their services.
At a glance
Course cost
£660.00 exc. VAT
Course duration
3 days
Accreditation
LCL Awards
Course information
The solar photovoltaic installer course delivers the knowledge, skills and competency required to design, install, commission and maintain domestic and commercial solar PV systems.
During the course, you will receive practical training, including work on:
- Purpose-built solar pv rigs, featuring different types of modules, inverters, and roof mounting kits.
- Live equipment within a fully functioning plant room.
You will also cover theory relating to health & safety, industry regulations and best-practice.
At the end of the 3-days, you will undertake a practical, observed assignment and multiple-choice, open-book theory assessment.
On completion of this course, you will receive an LCL Awards Level 3 Certificate, which is recognised by the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS).
FAQs
To enrol in the solar PV installation course, you need to hold the following qualifications:
- Level 3 Award in the Requirements for Electrical Installations (BS7671) Current Edition.
- Level 3 Qualification in the Initial Verification and Certification of Electrical Installations.
If you do not hold a Level 3 Award in Initial Verification & Certification of Electrical Installations, please ensure you have one of the following:
- A Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Installing Electrotechnical Systems & Equipment
- An SVQ in Electrical Installations (SCQF Level 7)
- A Level 3 Certificate in Installing, Testing and Ensuring Compliance of Electrical Installations in Dwellings.
- An Experienced Worker Qualification
- An ECS Gold Card (Installation or Approved Electrician)
- Be a member of a competent persons scheme, as a Qualified Supervisor that meets the requirements of the Electrotechnical Assessment Specification (EAS)
You will need to bring your copy of the 18th Edition IET Wiring Regulations book (BS7671).
All other course materials are provided.
Please take a look at our electrical training courses or get in touch with our friendly team to discuss your requirements.
The course consists of 3 days in-centre training.
Successful candidates will receive their LCL Awards certificate approximately four to six weeks following completion of the course.
This solar PV installation course covers everything experienced electricians need to know about the installation and maintenance of solar photovoltaic systems, including:
- Regulations and standards.
- Health and safety considerations.
- AC and DC theory.
- PV cell types - their features and benefits.
- PV external and internal site survey requirements.
- Solar PV circuit design.
- PV system design and integration, setting to work and commissioning, and solar PV servicing and fault finding.
Solar photovoltaics (PV) are growing in popularity with more than double the amount of rooftop pv systems installed in 2022 compared with 2021, as end-users look for ways to save on their electricity bills and reduce reliance on fluctuating grid prices. When combined with a battery, consumers can get closer to self-sufficiency.
Not necessarily. Most energy providers require an install to be Microgeneration Scheme Certified (MCS) in order for customers to access the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), with the exception of Octopus Energy as GTEC’s MD, Griff Thomas, explains more on our blog.
Installers can also fit solar panels under MCS umbrella schemes, where the MCS paperwork and commissioning are completed by an MCS certified organisation.
This course is recognised by MCS and we can offer guidance on obtaining MCS certification.
To become a certified Solar PV installer in the UK, individuals typically need to follow these steps:
- Already be working in the electrical sector, as an electrician/electrical technician. Solar PV training is designed for experienced electrical operatives and candidates need to have completed the 18th Edition Wiring regulations and have relevant Level 3 electrical qualifications/experience.
- Enrol on a reputable training program. GTEC’s Solar PV course is accredited by LCL Awards, the UK’s leading renewable Awarding Organisation.
- Unless you plan to solely work for Octopus Energy customers, obtain MCS certification or join an MCS umbrella scheme. To become MCS certified you will need to prove competency and have robust Quality Management Systems (QMS) in place.
Latest dates
Related courses
Battery Storage Training Course
GTEC runs the UK's leading Battery Storage Systems training course, also known as electrical energy storage systems (EESS). Book online now.
Initial Verification & Certification of Electrical Installations 2391-50
City & Guilds Initial Verification & Periodic Inspection combined course (2391 52). For experienced installers – electrical or working in related industries.
Learn more about Initial Verification & Certification of Electrical Installations 2391-50
18th Edition Wiring Regulations Training Course
Learn about the 18th Edition IET Wiring Regulations & complete this electrical industry qualification (BS7671). 3-day course, City & Guilds Level 3 Certificate.
Learn more about 18th Edition Wiring Regulations Training Course