These are definitely uncertain times, but we at Solar Power World are going to continue to bring relevant news and advice to our solar community. Coronavirus has forced many of us to work from home and make the best out of a less-than-ideal situation. First, we must take care of the health and safety of our families and loved ones. Then, let’s get back to growing this solar industry.
It’s difficult to stay motivated when juggling family responsibilities and general anxieties about the future. But if you are able, now is a great time to brush up on solar training to better position yourself when we come out the other side of this pandemic. The economy may be down, but many homeowners and businesses may be looking at ways to reduce utility expenses — and thus the desire for solar will rise. Let’s make sure we’re ready to provide the safest and best services we can.
Online learning
The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP), the most recognized certification body in the solar industry, offers certifications and credentials for skilled solar professionals and specialists. Individuals with NABCEP certification on average earn $11,000 more than non-credentialed workers and are well-versed in the latest installation/technical techniques through Continuing Education credits. To first receive the NABCEP certification, individuals must complete an exam. For NABCEP-certified professionals looking to maintain their credentials, many manufacturers and NABCEP itself offer webinars that come with CE credits.
Solar training organization Solar Energy International (SEI) announced it is postponing its in-person training courses, but will expand its online training for the time being. SEI already offers the largest online learning community in the world dedicated to solar education, and now the group is offering multiple opportunities to keep solar training going, including free and discounted sessions.
Online education site HeatSpring, which is also an accredited NABCEP education provider, has hundreds of introduction courses to solar and renewable energy learning. Many are free and touch on such topics as solar + storage design and financing and marketing 101.
For more general industry knowledge, you can always read the latest Solar Power World issues and our expert-contributed articles. We have podcasts and videos explaining many solar basics and tons of installation tips to review.
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