Photovoltaic (PV) Technology Sheds New Light on Training for Electricians

In today’s uncertain economy, it pays to be green. For some construction industry professionals, this translates to using solar energy, and electricians are turning to solar energy education to give them a leg-up in the job market.

Back to school

Although PV technology has been around for years, recent training and job opportunities are a result of consumer trends, local government initiatives and partnerships between companies and industry groups. A Local 164 program in New Jersey, for example, stems from a partnership with Sharp’s solar energy division. Similarly, electricians who work for California-based American Technologies, Inc. (ATI), which distributes and installs solar panels, attend courses that integrate business skills with solar technology through two university programs.

ATI’s advanced program spans three months over which individuals learn everything from the history of solar energy, to heat transfer and flow, to solar analysis and design—along with business strategy and customer service. “We’re talking about intensive, hands-on training that gives you all the skills you need to be an installer,” says director of operations Sara Krishnamachari, who runs the training program in California.

While such trends are concentrated in sunnier regions, renewable energy experts view them as a sign of things to come. Christy Herig, Regional Director-East for the Solar Electric Power Association, predicts the use of PV technology “is going to mushroom here in the U.S.,” in part due to stimulus funding from the government.

PV technology’s versatility

Most solar panels use PV technology, which converts sunlight into electricity. Currently, it’s used to power watches, calculators, highway construction signs and large buildings. It works both off-grid and as a supplementary power source for customers on the electrical grid. Local electricians typically are trained in PV technology on low-voltage energy sources like communications wiring.

 “If you are a licensed contractor like I am, then you have to understand some of the [renewable] technology and codes involved,” says Lee Raphael, a partner in Chicago-based Metro Electrician Inc. He adds that existing codes already reflect such technology and having done a few PV installations the process is pretty straightforward.

Also, varying energy sources haven’t had a major effect on his jobs. “The wiring doesn’t change, whether you’re using a generator, PV, a battery, utility power supply or wind power,” he says.

The bottom line

The cost of solar panels remains one of the biggest deterrents for contractors and consumers alike. However, the high costs typically associated with photovoltaic technology are lowering. Though more expensive than standard power, the cost of PV technology has been steadily diminishing in recent years and is due to plummet again in 2009, according to a new analysis by New Energy Finance. In addition, some cities offer incentives to offset the cost of using it.

“People interested in the opportunities for solar system installers would be a step ahead by seeking education and experience towards certification with the North American Board of Certified Energy Professionals (NABCEP),” says Herig.

For more information on state policies and incentives, visit the online Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency.