How Much Does it Cost to Become a Solar Installation Technician?

The current job market is difficult to navigate, so deciding on a promising and lucrative career path is not easy.

The technology sector has made some of the most popular career paths obsolete but opened doors for new careers.

One such relatively new position is solar installation technician.

The solar industry is one of the fastest-growing fields in the U.S. with a 10-year job growth of 52%.

As a result of the high demand, the starting salary is significantly higher than other entry-level technology positions.

Best of all, the amount of education and training required to enter the field is minimal.

If you’re interested in becoming a solar installation technician, it’s important to understand the costs of the position.

Keep reading to learn more!

How Much Does it Cost to Complete Solar Installation School?

The best path to gain the skills and knowledge needed to become a solar installation technician is to attend a trade school.

This is a great option that avoids core classes like History and English and focuses directly on solar installation.

This path takes between six weeks and one year, depending on your educational and career goals, and can cost between $1,000 and $10,000.

Those who want a more classic college education while still learning the foundational topics of solar installation should opt for an associate degree from a community college.

Although you will have to take core classes, solar installation courses may be more detailed, giving you a better understanding of the field and industry.

An associate degree will take approximately two years and costs between $5,000 and $40,000, depending on the location and reputation.

How Much Does a Solar Installation Technician’s License Cost?

A solar installation technician’s license is obtained through the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP).

The license cost varies greatly between $1,000 and $10,000 depending on the certification level, location, and training program.

Most training programs provide the licensure upon completion of the curriculum.

Also, your state may require additional licensing after the NABCEP certification is earned.

This will involve paying additional fees.

Four certifications can be earned:

SEI Solar Professionals Certificate – earned with a training program, prepares entry-level solar technicians for a career in the industry.
PV Installer Specialist (PVIS) – for solar installers not working on other areas of PV projects.
PV Technical Sales (PVTS) – for solar professionals working in sales.
PV Installation Pro (PVIP) – the gold standard of solar certifications.

The PVIS, PVTS, and PVIP certifications require an application cost of $125, an exam fee of $375, and a recertification of $390.

What Are the Additional Costs after Becoming a Solar Installation Technician?

Aside from the solar installation technician training program and licensing costs, several additional costs are required to enter the field.

First, you must have a basic set of tools like ladders, wrenches, and drills, as well as safety gear like eye protection, harnesses, and gloves.

If you choose to work for a company, then these will be provided.

If you work as a contractor, then these items can collectively cost several hundred dollars.

It’s also important to factor in transportation costs since you will likely be traveling to different job sites.

Vehicle maintenance, wear-and-tear, and fuel must all be considered in the calculation.

Depending on the distance, this can range from minimal to expensive.

Professional association fees could cost up to several hundred dollars but are only a recommendation, not a requirement.

Joining a solar industry association group can provide continuing education and networking opportunities.

Some solar installation companies will pay these fees, while others may not cover the costs.

Is Becoming a Solar Installation Technician a Good Investment?

Since solar energy is viewed as an alternative, sustainable power source, it’s growing drastically across the world.

Becoming a solar installation technician has many upfront costs, so is it worth it to enter this growing industry?

Contribute to Environmental Protection

Traditional electricity is sourced from fossil fuels, which emit harmful toxins into the air, negatively impacting the global environment.

Fossil fuels are finite resources, resulting in pricing fluctuations that can negatively impact buyers.

On the other hand, solar energy is renewable, making it a more cost-effective option while reducing pollution.

Becoming a solar installer helps protect the environment by reducing the demand for fossil fuel-sourced energy.

Extensive Growth

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts continued demand through 2028 with a 63% projected increase!

As more major corporations and residential homes take advantage of this renewable energy source, the demand will continue to grow, resulting in job security and high salaries.

Low-Debt Education

Through community colleges, trade schools, technical education programs, or apprenticeships, you can learn the specific skills required for the position without paying for unnecessary core courses.

This means the curriculum focus is on becoming a solar installer and not on student loans.

This hands-on training not only provides experience but results in no or little student loan debt after graduation.