Domestic Solar Photovoltaic
(PV Installer)
This course will qualify the learner to register with SEAI as an approved contractor for Solar PV grants. It also meets the Dept of Agriculture requirement for contractors to register on TAMS Solar PV installers register.
Overview
Skills to Advance Initiative
This course is only available to those currently in employment and fully funded under the Skills to Advance initiative. SEAI registration fees are not included and must be paid by the learner
Skills to Advance is a national initiative that provides upskilling and reskilling opportunities to employees in jobs undergoing change and to those currently employed in vulnerable sectors. Skills to Advance aims to equip employees with the skills they need to progress in their current role or to adapt to the changing job market. Working closely with small and medium-sized enterprises, Skills to Advance helps employers identify skills needs and invest in their workforce by providing subsidised education and training to staff.
Save Your Spot
March 2026
9 March - 26 March
Online
Course Content
Micro Solar Photovoltaic Systems Implementation
Describe the main p-v cell technologies including the characteristics, configurations, and components of solar p-v systems
Describe factors affecting solar p-v output to include tilt, orientation, over shading and p-v module mismatch
Describe the relationship between rated output at standard test conditions and actual output in use
Summarise the planning requirements for solar p-v installations including any possible exemptions
Summarise relevant legislation, standards and regulation to include CE marking and New Approach 2 directives, product testing and certification standards and building regulations
Describe maintenance requirements for solar p-v systems to include cleaning, checking torque of fixing bolts and visual inspection of array integrity and electrical connections
Propose an appropriate mounting technique based on aerodynamic and static load considerations
Describe the potential hazards and mitigating action associated with solar p-v operation to include electrical hazards, “always live” systems, labeling and signage requirements and fixing of panels
Describe the relevant health and safety requirements for installation to include working at height, securing ladders, safety requirements for scaffolds, guard rails and personal safety equipment
Describe the recommended installation sequence for solar p-v systems identifying relevant standards and guidelines applicable to each phase of installation
Outline the main considerations for roof-mounted solar p-v systems including roof types, construction, loading, integrity and weather proofing
Assess roof loading and load bearing capacity and recommend suitable mounting and weather sealing techniques
Use the recommended tools for deploying all required solar p-v system components in accordance with manufacturer’s specification
Carry out a feasibility study for solar p-v system to include a resource assessment and economic evaluation
Generate a design layout for a solar p-v system to include a specification of array location, mounting techniques, cable runs and inverter location
Assess the conformance of a solar p-v system in accordance with standards for module fixings, fixing of the array, weather proofing, and integrity of the array
Test a solar p-v installation to include normal shutdown, emergency shutdown, and power control against solar intensity
Micro-Generator Electrical Installation
Describe key characteristics of micro-generation systems including the major components and system layout of wind, solar p-v (photo-voltaic), hydro- and micro-CHP (combined heat and power) systems
Identify the characteristics of generator types to include permanent magnet, induction, synchronous and asynchronous
Describe solar p-v module types and arrays to include current-voltage characteristics, open circuit voltage, short circuit current, maximum power current and voltage
Describe wind turbine types to include variable voltage and frequency output
Describe output controls on wind generator to include dump loads and electrical braking
Summarise the requirements for electrical works with respect to applicable regulations, certification, and national rules for electrical installation
Summarise relevant product requirements including those relating to European conformity CE marking, and testing and certification standards
Identify hazards associated with micro-generation installations to include “always live” systems, leakage current detection, earthing and lightning protection systems and isolation devices, proposing suitable mitigation measures
Describe network connection requirements including the network connection application process
Summarise appropriate signage and labelling requirements as per the National Rules for Electrical Installations to include identification of cable locations and “always live” systems.
Justify the selection of a suitable battery system based on sizing and safety requirements as per IS EN 50272-2
Calculate recommended minimum capacities for electrical components including voltage and current ratings for direct current plugs, connectors and switches, and cable capacity based on size
Program inverters with generator power curves in accordance with manufacturer’s specifications and set-up instructions
Commission a solar p-v system completing all required electrical testing
Commission a simulated rotating generator system completing all required electrical testing
Identify faults in solar p-v and rotating generator systems using test and measurement equipment.
Suitability
Micro Solar Photovoltaic Systems Implementation - Learners must hold a minimum Level 5 Certificate / Ordinary Level Leaving Certificate. You should have previously completed a relevant Level 5 award.
Micro-Generator Electrical Installation - Learners must be a registered electrical contractors with RECI (Register of Electrical Contractors of Ireland).
Some Companies benefiting
from PV Installer Training
PV Solar Installation Information
News
Solar panels can now save homeowners more than €24,000
Homeowners who add solar panels to their homes can now cover the cost of the work in seven years – and they can make net savings of more than €24,000 over 25 years after installation costs, a new survey reveals.
The Irish Independent Swyft Energy Solar PV Index shows that a standard 12-panel system can completely pay for itself in seven years.
The repayment period has dropped by almost half – it was 12 years in 2021.
Experts said this was due to the fact that average Irish electricity market prices are 53pc higher than in 2021. The removal of Vat on solar panel installation has also meant the pay-back time has reduced.
Chief executive of Swyft Energy, Adrian Casey, said: “The figures show that, on average, Irish householders could make net savings of €24,327 over the next 25 years by installing solar PV (photovoltaic) panels now.
