Obtaining a credential from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) can be a significant career milestone. Specifically, the NABCEP PV Associate Credential is designed for those looking to prove their knowledge in the principles of the application, design, installation, and operation of Solar Photovoltaic (PV) systems. This certification not only enhances employment opportunities but also instills confidence in employers about your commitment and expertise in the solar industry.
Who Should Take the NABCEP PV Associate Exam?
The NABCEP PV Associate Program caters to a wide audience, including students, early-career professionals, and those transitioning from other fields into renewable energy. Whether you're aiming to design, sell, install, or maintain PV systems in a supervised capacity, this credential marks the first step toward a rewarding career in solar energy.
Pathways to the Credential
There are three pathways to obtaining your NABCEP PV Associate credential: the Education Pathway, the Experience Pathway, and the NABCEP Entry Level Conversion Pathway. Each path offers a unique route to certification, whether through completing a photovoltaics course, documenting relevant work experience, or converting an existing NABCEP Entry Level Achievement Award. Choosing the right pathway hinges on your current level of education, experience, and professional goals.
- Education Pathway: Ideal for those new to the solar industry or looking to expand their knowledge base, the Education Pathway requires successful completion of a photovoltaics course from a NABCEP Associate Registered Training Provider. This option is tailored for individuals who prefer structured learning environments and comprehensive coverage of PV system fundamentals. Upon completing the course, candidates are eligible to sit for the NABCEP PV Associate Exam, with many training providers facilitating the exam process directly. If you choose this option, the training provider will submit your PV Associate Exam application on your behalf.
- Experience Pathway: Designed for professionals with documented work experience in the solar industry, the Experience Pathway acknowledges the value of hands-on experience. Candidates must document at least six months of full-time equivalent work experience in roles directly involved with photovoltaic systems. After validating their experience, applicants can proceed to apply for the exam directly with NABCEP, providing a practical route for those who have learned on the job.
- NABCEP Entry Level Conversion Pathway: This pathway offers a bridge for individuals who have previously earned a NABCEP Entry Level Achievement Award in either photovoltaics or solar heating. The NABCEP PV Associate was previously known as the NABCEP PV Entry Level credential. The conversion recognizes the foundational knowledge gained through earlier credentials and allows for a smooth transition to the Associate level. For credentials earned more than three years before application, candidates must also document at least 12 hours of continuing education within the last three years to ensure their knowledge is up-to-date.
Preparing for the Exam with Waivolt
A thorough understanding of the NABCEP PV Associate Job Task Analysis (JTA) is crucial for exam success. The JTA outlines the foundational principles you'll be tested on, spanning the application, design, installation, and operation of PV systems.
Practice makes perfect, and Waivolt offers a free NABCEP PV Associate Practice Exam to help you get comfortable with the exam format and timing. Additionally, for those seeking comprehensive exam prep training at no cost, Waivolt's Solar Heros Program is now accepting applications. Soon qualified applicants will be able to receive free training through the 0 to Solar Hero NABCEP PV Associate Exam Prep Training course, designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to ace the exam.
Practice makes perfect, and Waivolt offers a free NABCEP PV Associate Practice Exam to help you get comfortable with the exam format and timing. Additionally, for those seeking comprehensive exam prep training at no cost, Waivolt's Solar Heros Program is now accepting applications. Soon qualified applicants will be able to receive free training through the 0 to Solar Hero NABCEP PV Associate Exam Prep Training course, designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to ace the exam.
Scheduling and Taking the Exam
Depending on the pathway you choose, you'll either coordinate with your training provider or submit an application through NABCEP's website to schedule your exam. Along with your application, you will need to pay the exam fee which is comprised of a $125 fee to NABCEP plus up to a $25 administration fee depending upon your training provider. If you do not earn a passing score, a retake costs another $125. Taking the exam is now easier than ever with Live Online Proctoring through your own computer, or may also take the exam in person at any one of Meazure Learning's 1,400 test sites.
The exam itself is a rigorous assessment of your understanding of PV systems, covering everything from safety practices to system design and operation. Familiarizing yourself with the types of questions through practice exams can significantly increase your chances of success.
The exam itself is a rigorous assessment of your understanding of PV systems, covering everything from safety practices to system design and operation. Familiarizing yourself with the types of questions through practice exams can significantly increase your chances of success.
International Candidates Welcome
The NABCEP PV Associate is now an internationally recognized credential in the solar industry and the organization encourages international candidates to apply. In addition to in-person testing centers in 110 countries via Measure Learning testing, the exam is also offered online via Live Online Proctoring, which you can take from your own computer. Please note that NABCEP's testing vendor, Meazure Learning, charges an additional $75 international fee for exams taken outside of the United States and Canada.
After the Exam: Making the Most of Your Credential
Passing the NABCEP PV Associate Exam is an achievement worth sharing. NABCEP maintains an online Associate Directory, allowing potential employers to verify your credential. It's important to leverage this certification on your resume and LinkedIn profile to enhance your visibility in the solar job market.
Continuing Education Requirements
To maintain the NABCEP PV Associate Credential, holders must document their continuing education activities. These activities are designed to ensure that PV Associates keep up with the latest advancements in photovoltaic technology, codes, standards, and best practices. NABCEP requires PV Associates to:
- Complete a minimum of twelve (12) hours of continuing education every three (3) years.
- These hours must be relevant to the photovoltaic field, such as courses on new PV technologies, changes in electrical codes, or advances in system design and safety practices.
Recertification and Fees
The process of recertification is straightforward but requires careful attention to deadlines and requirements:
- Recertification Fee: There is a $150 recertification fee that must be paid every three years to maintain the credential.
- Documentation: Associates must document their continuing education activities and submit this documentation along with their recertification application and fee.
- Deadlines: Timely submission is essential. Associates should keep track of their recertification deadline, which falls on the anniversary of their original certification date, every three years. NABCEP typically sends reminders, but it's the credential holder's responsibility to ensure all requirements are met on time. Late applicants must pay an additional $50 late application fee to renew.
Earning the NABCEP PV Associate Credential is a testament to your dedication and proficiency in the solar energy sector. By following the steps outlined in this guide and taking advantage of resources like Waivolt's Solar Heros Program, you're well on your way to establishing yourself in the renewable energy industry. Remember, the journey to certification is not just about passing an exam—it's about laying the foundation for a sustainable, impactful career in the solar industry.
