Stellar Power.
In today's world, where the transition to sustainable energy sources is not just a preference but a pressing necessity, the Solar PV Installer program will play a pivotal role in preparing the next generation of professionals to lead the renewable energy charge. Whether installing panels on roofs or non-roofing structures, this one-year certificate program builds the expertise and proficiency for the installation and upkeep of solar systems and instills a strong safety culture while encompassing regulatory compliance and practices.
Solar energy is Canada’s fastest growing sector. With society’s increasing demands on electricity and a global commitment to switch to renewable clean energy, graduates with these job-ready skills will be in high demand, positioned at the forefront of a growing industry. Beyond technical skills, this one-year certificate program aims to cultivate a deep understanding of the importance of renewable energy in today's world.
The Solar PV Installer program offers a holistic understanding of solar energy systems, preparing you with the multifaceted knowledge, practical skills and critical thinking abilities that are imperative to excel in the dynamic field of solar energy. The comprehensive curriculum covers both mechanical and electrical aspects, ensuring proficiency and skill transferability for a diverse range of roles in the renewable energy sector. Furthermore, the program’s capstone project provides invaluable real-world experience that can be showcased to future employers. While the program equips you with essential project management skills, invaluable for planning, budgeting, and documenting installations, you'll also gain an understanding of the importance of working in teams, establishing effective customer relations, and the ability to start your own business.
This program is not just about education, it's about making a meaningful contribution to our world's sustainable future. Now’s the time to power up for an in-demand career with a profound environmental impact.
Program Highlights
- Prepares for a diverse range of roles in the renewable energy sector with its comprehensive curriculum covering both mechanical and electrical aspects of solar panel systems
- Real-world projects and hands-on training, providing invaluable experience to showcase to future employers
- Relevant and in-demand, this program is at the forefront of an evolving job market demanding skills, knowledge, and attitudes in clean, renewable energy solutions
Did You Know?
- A recent search on solar salaries in Canada placed solar PV installers with project management skills between $70,000 and $100,000 or more per year.[1]
- Between 2020 and 2030, Canadian jobs in the clean energy sector are slated to grow four times faster than average.[2]
- The global shift to green energy has resulted in a solar market worth more than $50 billion, and steadily increasing.
- In Canada, the annual average growth rate for solar energy is 50%, nearly 10 times the national average.
- Solar systems are now installed in every Nunatsiavut community and provide the community with clean electricity.[3]
OBJECTIVES
Upon successful completion of the Solar PV Installer program, graduates will have the knowledge and skills to be able to:
- Demonstrate OHS safety procedures required for the installation and maintenance of solar PV systems.
- Establish an understanding of the components and technology common to solar PV systems.
- Utilize project planning to complete solar PV installation and maintenance tasks.
- Demonstrate problem solving skills and team-based work practices to complete a solar PV installation.
- Demonstrate effective communication with customers.
- Perform solar PV system installation on various surfaces, including roofs and non-roofing structures.
- Demonstrate safe handling and maintenance of solar PV components and equipment.
- Demonstrate safety procedures when working with electricity.
- Perform configuration and connection of electrical wiring, conduits, and associated circuitry for inspection.
- Demonstrate compliance with electrical codes and regulations.
- Apply preventative maintenance and inspection procedures on solar PV systems.
- Perform solar PV maintenance, repair, and replacement of parts to correct malfunctions.
- Create reports and documents regarding solar PV installation and maintenance.
CERTIFICATIONS
In addition to the formal courses listed in the program of studies, students in the Solar PV Installer certificate program are required to obtain a certificate of completion in the following prior to graduation:
1. Standard First Aid & CPR/AED Level C
2. WHMIS
3. Fall Protection
4. Lock-out – Tag-out – Workplace Electrical Safety
5. Confined Space Entry
6. High-Angle Rescue
Students should be aware that additional fees may apply for external certifications.
ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS
1. High School
High School Graduation Certificate with a 60% overall average in eight level 3000 credits, or equivalent, including Mathematics (4 credits) chosen from:
i. Advanced: 2200, 3200 (50% minimum in each course)
ii. Academic: 2201 (50% minimum), 3201 (60% minimum)
2. Comprehensive Arts and Science (CAS) Transition
Comprehensive Arts and Science (Transition) Certificate with the following courses:
i. Math (60% MINIMUM)
MA1040,
MA1041
ii.
OR clearing High School course deficiencies through Comprehensive Arts and Science (Transition) individual courses.
3. Adult Basic Education (ABE)
Adult Basic Education (Level III) Graduation with Degree and Technical Profile (or Business Related College Profile), including the following courses (or equivalent):
i. Mathematics (60% minimum) 1101A, 1101B, 1101C, 2101A, 2101B, 2101C, 3101A, 3101B, 3101C
Applicants with Adult Basic Education (Level III) Graduation with a different Profile may be eligible for admission to the program provided the appropriate selection of courses including those outlined above have been completed.
4. Mature Student Requirements
Applicants who do not meet the education prerequisites for this program, are 19 years at the time of application and out of school for at least one year may be considered on an individual basis under the Mature Student Requirements; for more information regarding the Mature Student Requirements please refer to Procedure AC-102-PR Admission.
International Applicants – English Proficiency
All international applicants must meet the College’s English language proficiency requirements for acceptance into regular programs. The College will accept these recognized tests of English language proficiency (TOEFL paper based 550, TOEFL Internet based 79, TOEFL computer based 213 or equivalent, IELTS Academic Test overall band score of 6.0, or Pearson PTE 53 or greater, etc.).
If a language proficiency test other than those referenced above was used, applicants can forward for assessment.
If an international applicant has attended an educational institution (high school or post-secondary) for a period of three years or more where the official language of instruction was English, the English language proficiency test will not be required.
Note: Some programs may require specific English language requirements and proficiency scores that differ from those stated above; therefore international applicants are advised to please refer to the specific program admission requirements as identified in the College Calendar.
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
In today's ever-growing clean energy sector, the demand for skilled individuals is not only present now but is set to increase even more in the future. As solar energy takes center stage, graduates from the Solar PV Installer program can look forward to a wide array of employment opportunities within the dynamic field of renewable energy. From roles such as solar PV installer to energy efficiency technician, renewable energy project assistant, and positions in sales and customer service, the possibilities are diverse. Additionally, graduates may explore opportunities as entrepreneurs, contribute to the construction industry, or thrive as environmental consultants. The exciting part is that these opportunities are not confined to a specific region; they currently exist nationwide and are steadily emerging at the provincial level. The future looks bright for those entering the clean energy workforce!