Renewable Energy & PV Solar

Why PCC

  1. You get to work in an industry that is helping the transition to alternative forms of energy, increases electrical grid source generation diversity, helps with grid reliability, lowers air pollution and can help reduce climate change.
  2. There is a huge potential for job growth. According to the 2021 National Solar Jobs Census released by the Interstate Renewable Energy Council, the United States has 255,037 solar workers. In the past 10 years, the photovoltaic (PV) solar workforce has grown by 159%, adding around 150,000 jobs. 
  3. The industry is constantly evolving. Demand for clean energy is growing as new PV technology is gaining momentum. Several states and utility companies across the U.S. have set 100% clean energy goals. When you choose a career in the solar industry, you are choosing to be part of a movement that is constantly advancing
  4. Love what you do. You don’t always have the chance to lower people’s bills, champion a cause and save the planet. This is all in a day’s work in the solar industry. The PV solar industry also allows you to work outside in the Colorado sunshine at all types of sites – residential, commercial, and industrial, work with your hands, and use your mental skills when designing and configuring types of PV solar systems.
  5. Make great money. Starting wages in solar are high compared to other industries. As you gain more experience over time, your pay likely will increase as well. There is an increasing demand for skilled professionals like electricians, photovoltaic installers, tech support, and sales representatives (ION Solar Industries).

What will I learn?

The new Solar Photovoltaic Installer Certificate teaches you about safety, racking systems and the installation of electrical and energy storage components associated with photovoltaic solar systems. You’ll also learn how to inspect, test and commission the system. It all starts with the fundamentals and a solid understanding of various components, system architectures and applications for PV systems. Other topics include site analysis, system sizing, array configuration and performance estimation; electrical design characteristics such as wiring, overcurrent protection and grounding; a detailed look at module and inverter specifications and characteristics; mounting methods for various roof structures and ground-mounts; and an introduction to safely and effectively commissioning grid-direct PV systems.

Career Information

The initial certification qualifies the student for the position of PV solar installer. The expanding solar and renewable energy program is developing programs for solar sales representatives, energy auditors, solar energy systems engineers, solar energy installation managers and PV solar operations and maintenance technicians. 

SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC INSTALLERS

WAGE AND EMPLOYMENT DATA

Solar Employment Data - For accessible version please contact program coordinator.
Solar Occupation Data - For accessible version, contact program coordinator.

Photovoltaic Panel Installation, Certificate

Award/Program Credits: 17

VIEW PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS >

Program Information

Location
Online
Pueblo Campus
Pathway
Manufacturing & Automotive
Awards
Certificate
Course Availability
Day
Evening
Online
Hybrid
Program Start
Spring
Program Length
2 Semesters

Contact

Gregg White
719-549-3419
Gregg.White@pueblocc.edu

Total Credits: 17


Core Curriculum Requirements