Certification Prep Solar PV

Coming soon Solar PV Applications

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About the Course

Welcome to Unit 1 — your first step toward a hands-on career in solar.
This free module covers the foundational knowledge every solar professional needs. We’ll explore what photovoltaic (PV) technology is, how it works, and why it’s rapidly becoming one of the most in-demand skills in the energy sector.
You’ll learn:
  • How solar modules convert sunlight into electricity
  • The history and future of PV systems
  • Basics of the utility grid and solar’s role in it
  • Sustainability and job opportunities in solar
  • Key electrical concepts: DC, power vs. energy, system performance
  • What a day in the life of a solar installer actually looks like
  • Best practices from the field — not just theory
Whether you’re an experienced tradesperson exploring solar or brand new to the industry, this unit will give you the vocabulary, context, and confidence to move forward.

Course Developer

  • Alexander Jarvis

    IREC Certified Master Trainer

    Alex has been working in the solar industry since 2006. He is an IREC Certified Master Trainer in Photovoltaic Technologies and a NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installation Professional. He is a solar installer and is the founder of Solar Systems of Indiana and cofounder of Southern Indiana Renewable Energy Network. He served on the Board of Directors at MREA from 2018-2024.

    + read more

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This course is available now. Click below to start the course.

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Frequently asked questions

Is the full course really free, do I have to pay for anything?

Yes the is free for approved Solar Hero applicants to take the full course and earn a certificate of completion. Students are still responsible for any exam fees due to NABCEP when they decide to sit for the NABCEP PV Installation Professional Exam and any other books or study materials they want to use.

Will this course prepare me for the NABCEP PV Installation Professional Exam

Yes this course covers the NABCEP PV Installation Professional Job Task Analysis and is developed by IREC Certified Master Trainers in PV. It includes practice exams and is intended to help you pass the NABCEP PV Installation Professional Exam. Passing the exam requires a great deal of studying and preparation.

Has this course been approved by NABCEP?

No, Waivolt is approved as a NABCEP training provider but this course has not been approved by NABCEP. The course is under development and will not be released until it is approved.

Why did you make it free, what's the catch?

We are an open startup and believe that the future of our planet depends on the deployment of solar PV at scale as fast as possible. The growth of the solar industry is currently hampered by a lack of solar talent and we want to help solve that problem by making high quality solar training available for free. There is no catch. If you like what we are doing, and can afford to do so, we hope you will join as a Waivolt Pro member to help our mission.

Is this course sponsored and are specific products endorsed?

While we do encourage corporate sponsorships, sponsors have zero influence on the content of our courses. The courses do not receive sponsorship in return for endorsing any specific products or manufacturers. All course materials are developed by IREC Certified Master Trainers in accordance with IREC's Code of Ethics. All course development to date has been funded by our founder, Duncan Miller, who has been working in the solar training industry since 2006.

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