Solar and Wind Energy Certifications

This is Page 2 of 4 of the Getting Started with Solar Series: Solar and Wind Certification.

NABCEP, which stands for the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners, is the nationally recognized solar and wind energy professional certification organization.  NABCEP's mission is to set national standards to help facilitate the growth of the renewable energy industry. Below are the most popular industry designations.

NABCEP PV Entry Level Program

The NABCEP PV Entry Level  program is designed for those individuals wanting to get into the solar field; it is a way for them to show they have achieved basic knowledge comprehension and application of key terms and concepts of photovoltaic (solar electric) system operations. The certificate demonstrates that the student has passed an industry-designed exam based on learning objectives developed by subject matter experts. As the market grows for photovoltaics, students achieving this industry-sponsored Entry Level Exam may find that their employment opportunities are enhanced by starting the job with an understanding of the basic terms and operational aspects of a PV system. However, completing coursework and passing the exam does not qualify an individual to install PV systems.

Prepare for the NABCEP PV Entry Level Exam with Everblue's Solar PV Associate course.

NABCEP PV Installer Certification

The NABCEP Solar PV Installer certification is a voluntary certification that provides a set of national standards by which PV installers with skills and experience can distinguish themselves from their competition. Certification provides a measure of protection to the public by giving them a credential for judging the competency of practitioners. It is not intended to prevent qualified individuals from installing PV systems nor to replace state licensure requirements. The target candidate for NABCEP certification is the person responsible for the system installation (e.g., contractor, foreman, supervisor, or journeyman).  A candidate must first pass the NABCEP PV Entry Level Exam and demonstrate solar PV installation experience to qualify for this exam.

Prepare for the NABCEP PV Installer Certification by taking Everblue's Solar PV Installer course.

NABCEP Solar Heating Entry Level Certification

The NABCEP Solar Heating Entry Level Certification is a voluntary certification that provides a set of national standards by which solar heating professionals with skills and experience can distinguish themselves from their competition. Certification provides a measure of protection to the public by giving them a credential for judging the competency of practitioners.  It is not intended to prevent qualified individuals from installing solar heating systems nor to replace state licensure requirements.

The target candidate for NABCEP certification is the person responsible for the system installation (e.g., contractor, foreman, supervisor, or journeyman).

Prepare for the NABCEP Solar Heating Entry Level Certification by taking Everblue's Solar Heating Associate course. 

Small Wind Certification

NABCEP Small Wind Installer Certification

The NABCEP Small Wind Certification is meant to help wind energy professionals distinguish themselves in the industry.  This Wind Energy Certification targets installers and practitioners in renewable energy technologies.

Prepare for the a career in small wind energy contracting by taking Everblue's course on Small Wind Design and Installation. 

Continue Reading - Page 3 of 4 of the Getting Started with Solar Series: Solar Job Opportunities.