Solar PV Skills: What’s the Point?

Since the Feed-in-Tariff was introduced in 2010, sales of Solar PV systems have increased dramatically so that it is now not uncommon to see PV panels fitted to domestic homes and business premises.

However, despite this, many in the electrical industry still feel unsure of the future of Solar PV and therefore have remained firmly away from it. The Government changes to the Feed-in-Tariff system haven’t helped reassure electricians that Solar PV is an energy system of the future which is here to stay.

This has resulted in too few trained PV installers available to carry out the work, which has meant that industry growth has slowed as work demand does not meet skills available to carry out that work. However, Solar PV is still set to be a part of the renewable future and really needs more people training to become a part of the industry to increase and help growth.

To be able to do this, a Microgeneration Certification scheme is essential to be able to carry out PV work and shouldn’t be seen as a problem. Instead it is an opportunity to develop new skills and carry out a new interesting aspect of electrical work.

The other incentive is that without training, registration on a MCS accreditation scheme is impossible which removes the access to incentives aimed to help consumers finance Solar PV.

Once those who do decide to get into Solar PV have completed their training and gained MCS accreditation, a reputable merchant is the next thing to be found. We would recommend using one which is happy to offer support, knowledge and advice.

It is also wise to look for one who is experienced and recommended in the renewable industry. By always using merchants with knowledge of their industry, installers can be certain they are getting relevant advice and help.

There are a great number of reasons why Solar PV is a good skill to have, take the plunge and open up your skills to include Solar PV.

Written by Sara Thomson