On the national level, the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) provides industry-recognized certificates and certification. NABCEP offers practitioner level certification for photovoltaics (PV), solar thermal and small wind installers and an entry level certificate for PV and Solar Heating. An Entry Level Certificate of Knowledge is aimed at those who want to enter the industry and have no solar background. The NABCEP Practitioner Certification requires passing a rigorous examination and 18-hours of continuing education for re-certification every three years.

It should be noted that NABCEP’s certification is voluntary. It is not a professional license issued by a government agency, and does not authorize a certificant to install solar.

NABCEP Entry Level Certificate of Knowledge

• Certificates in PV and Solar Heating
• No experience required
  
• Requires taking course and passing exam
  
• Not certified to install PV
• For more information: http://www.nabcep.org/entry-level-program-2

Practitioner (Installer) Certification

• Certificates in PV, Solar Heating, PV Technical Sales and Small Wind
• Significant experience and education requirements
  
• Must pass rigorous exam
  
• Certified to install solar systems (subject to state licensing requirements)
  
• Must be re-certified every three years.
• For more information: http//www.nabcep.org/certification/the-need-for-certification

Provider Information

If you're interested in becoming a NABCEP provider or are looking for a list of certification providers, visit the NABCEP Provider Registration page.