The Path to Becoming a Renewable Energy Installer: Training and Certification

Renewable energy is transforming how we power our homes, businesses and communities. As we move towards a more sustainable future, renewable energy installation has emerged as an increasingly important and rapidly growing industry in the UK.

Renewable energy installers are the backbone of the industry, responsible for installing, commissioning and maintaining a range of renewable energy systems such as solar panels, wind turbines, heat pumps and biomass boilers. And it offers a rewarding career path with personal and professional growth opportunities.

To become a renewable energy installer, specialised training and certification are required to ensure that an installer has the necessary skills and knowledge to install renewable energy systems safely, efficiently and in compliance with industry standards. We look at the training and certification required to become a renewable energy installer and explore the different pathways available, the job prospects and salary potential, and other relevant qualifications that may be useful in this field.

Renewable Energy Training

Different types of training are available, including apprenticeships, on-the-job training, and formal education programs.

Apprenticeships provide a combination of classroom learning and hands-on experience under the supervision of an experienced installer. This training allows you to gain practical experience while learning the theoretical aspects of renewable energy installation. On-the-job training is another option where you learn through practical experience, usually under the guidance of an experienced installer. Formal education programs, such as college or university courses, provide a more structured approach to learning and can give you a deeper understanding of the theoretical aspects of renewable energy installation.

Regarding renewable heating systems, such as air source heat pumps and biomass boilers, installers must be certified by the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS). The MCS is a quality assurance scheme that sets standards for renewable energy products and installers. This certification is essential to ensure you have the necessary skills and knowledge to install renewable heating systems safely and efficiently.

Each type of training has its benefits and drawbacks, and the best option for you will depend on your goals, learning style, and previous experience. An apprenticeship may be a good option if you’re new to the industry and want a combination of classroom learning and hands-on experience. On-the-job training may be more suitable if you already have some relevant experience and want to learn through practical experience. Formal education programs may be ideal if you’re looking for a more in-depth understanding of the theoretical aspects of renewable energy installation.

To find and choose a training program, you can research different options online, speak to industry professionals or training providers, and attend career fairs and events. With the proper training and certification, you can start on the path to becoming a skilled and successful renewable energy installer in the UK.

Renewable Energy Certification

Certification assures clients you have the necessary skills and knowledge to install renewable energy systems safely and efficiently. The leading certification scheme available for renewable energy installers is the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS).

The MCS is a quality assurance scheme that sets standards for renewable energy products and installers. It provides certification for renewable heating systems, such as air source heat pumps, biomass boilers, and solar PV systems. The RECC is a consumer code that aims to protect consumers investing in renewable energy systems. It sets out minimum standards for the marketing, sale and installation of renewable energy systems and provides a dispute resolution service for consumers.

It is important to note that renewable heating system installers, such as air source heat pump installers, will also require the Water Regulations Advisory Scheme (WRAS) qualification. The WRAS qualification ensures installers have the knowledge and skills to comply with water supply regulations when installing heating systems.

Certification is essential not only for installers but also for their clients. It provides reassurance that the installer has the necessary skills and knowledge to install renewable energy systems safely and efficiently. This can help to build trust and confidence between the installer and the client, which is essential for a successful installation.

Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS)

The Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) is a quality assurance scheme that sets standards for UK renewable energy products and installers. It was introduced in 2007 to support the growth of the renewable energy industry and provide consumers with confidence that renewable energy products and installations are safe, reliable, and meet specific standards.

The MCS covers a range of renewable energy products, including solar PV systems, wind turbines, and renewable heating systems such as air source heat pumps and biomass boilers. It sets standards for these products’ design, installation, and maintenance to ensure that they are installed safely, efficiently, and to a high standard. The scheme also requires that products meet specific performance criteria, such as efficiency and reliability, to ensure that they provide the expected level of energy output.

The MCS certification process thoroughly assesses the installer’s skills and knowledge. To become certified, installers must complete accredited training that covers the relevant technologies and installation requirements. They must also pass an online exam that tests their knowledge of the products and installation requirements. After completing the training and passing the exam, the installer must undergo a practical assessment of their installation skills observed and assessed by an MCS-approved assessor.

Certification is essential for renewable energy installers and their clients, as it assures that the installer has the necessary skills and knowledge to install renewable energy systems safely and efficiently. The MCS certification is recognised by many organisations, including the UK government, as a mark of quality for renewable energy installations.

There are several benefits of being MCS certified for installers. Firstly, it provides a competitive advantage, as clients are more likely to choose a certified installer. Secondly, it demonstrates the installer’s commitment to quality and professionalism, which can lead to more referrals and repeat business. Finally, being MCS certified allows installers to access specific government incentives and schemes, such as the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI), which financially supports homeowners who install renewable heating systems.

Solar PV systems: Solar PV systems use photovoltaic panels to convert sunlight into electricity. The MCS sets standards for the design, installation, and maintenance of solar PV systems to ensure that they are installed safely, efficiently, and to a high standard. This includes requirements for the panel orientation, mounting, and electrical connections.

Wind turbines: Wind turbines generate electricity by converting wind energy into rotational energy using rotor blades. The MCS sets standards for the design, installation, and maintenance of wind turbines to ensure that they are installed safely, efficiently, and to a high standard. This includes requirements for the tower height, rotor diameter, and electrical connections.

Air source heat pumps: Air source heat pumps use the outside air to provide heating and hot water for a building. The MCS sets standards for the design, installation, and maintenance of air source heat pumps to ensure that they are installed safely, efficiently, and to a high standard. This includes requirements for the unit location, piping, and electrical connections. It is also worth noting that installers of air source heat pumps require Water Regulations Advisory Scheme (WRAS) qualification, which ensures that they comply with water supply regulations when installing heating systems.

Biomass boilers: Biomass boilers use organic materials such as wood pellets or logs to provide heating and hot water for a building. The MCS sets standards for the design, installation, and maintenance of biomass boilers to ensure that they are installed safely, efficiently, and to a high standard. This includes requirements for fuel storage, flue, and electrical connections.

In addition to these renewable energy systems, the MCS covers micro-combined heat and power (CHP) and energy storage systems. The standards set by the MCS ensure that renewable energy products are installed to a high standard and provide the expected level of energy output.

Types of Training Courses

Some of the current types of renewable energy training courses available:

Solar PV training courses: These courses cover the design, installation, and maintenance of solar PV systems. They provide installers with the knowledge and skills to install solar PV systems safely, efficiently, and to a high standard. Some examples of solar PV training providers include Solar Energy UK, and MCS Accredited Solar PV Training.

Wind turbine training courses: These courses cover the design, installation, and maintenance of wind turbines. They provide installers with the knowledge and skills to install wind turbines safely, efficiently, and to a high standard. Some examples of wind turbine training providers in the UK include RenewableUK and MCS Accredited Wind Turbine Training.

Renewable heating system training courses: These courses cover the design, installation, and maintenance of renewable heating systems, such as air source heat pumps and biomass boilers. They provide installers with the knowledge and skills to install renewable heating systems safely, efficiently, and to a high standard. Some examples of UK renewable heating system training providers include MCS Accredited Heat Pump Training, and HETAS Approved Biomass Training.

Health and safety training courses: These courses cover various aspects of health and safety, such as working at height, manual handling, and first aid. They provide installers with the necessary knowledge and skills to work safely in a potentially hazardous environment. Some examples of health and safety training providers in the UK include the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) and IOSH.

Training providers may offer a range of courses, from basic introductory courses to more advanced and specialised courses.

Demand for Renewable Energy Installers

The UK renewable energy industry is snowballing, driven by government targets for reducing carbon emissions and increasing the use of renewable energy. As a result, there is a growing demand for trained renewable energy installers to meet the needs of the industry. While estimates vary, some industry sources suggest that there will be a significant demand for trained installers in the coming years.

For example, according to a report by the Renewable Energy Association, the UK solar industry alone could require up to 18,000 trained installers by 2030 to meet the growing demand for solar PV systems. Similarly, the UK Green Building Council estimates that the need for low-carbon heating systems, such as air source heat pumps, could require up to 50,000 trained installers by 2030.

The growing demand for renewable energy systems in the UK is expected to demand trained and certified renewable energy installers significantly. Estimates vary, but industry sources suggest that tens of thousands of trained installers may be needed to meet the demand for solar PV systems, low-carbon heating systems, and other renewable energy systems. To meet this demand, a coordinated effort is required to ensure that the necessary training and certification programs are in place and accessible to those who want to pursue a career in renewable energy installation.

Installer FAQs:

What types of training are available for renewable energy installers?
Various types of training are available, including apprenticeships, on-the-job training, and formal education programs. Training providers may offer courses in solar PV, wind turbines, renewable heating systems, health and safety training and specific equipment certifications.

What certification schemes are available for renewable energy installers in the UK?
The Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) provides certification for renewable heating systems, such as air source heat pumps, biomass boilers, and solar PV systems. Other certification schemes are available, such as the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) and specific equipment certifications.

Why is certification important for renewable energy installers?
The certificate assures clients that the installer has the necessary skills and knowledge to install renewable energy systems safely and efficiently. It also demonstrates the installer’s commitment to quality and professionalism, which can lead to more referrals and repeat business.

How do I find and choose a training course?
It is important to research training providers and certification bodies to ensure that they are accredited and reputable. Viva Training offers renewable energy training courses in Yorkshire and BPEC approved.

What are the benefits of becoming a renewable energy installer?
A: Becoming a renewable energy installer can be a rewarding career that allows you to contribute to the growth of the renewable energy industry while also positively impacting the environment. It can also provide job security, a competitive salary, and opportunities for career advancement.

How long does it take to become a certified renewable energy installer?
The time it takes to become an accredited installer can vary depending on the type of renewable energy system and certification required.

What are the entry requirements for renewable energy installer training programs?
Entry requirements can vary depending on the type of training program. Some programs may require specific qualifications, while others require prior experience in a related field.

Can I become a renewable energy installer without formal education?
It is possible to become a renewable energy installer through on-the-job training or apprenticeships, which provide practical experience and on-the-job learning. However, certification is still required to demonstrate the necessary skills and knowledge.

How often do renewable energy installers need to renew their certification?
A: Certification requirements can vary depending on the certification scheme. For example, the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) requires renewable energy installers to renew their certification every five years. Other certification schemes may have different renewal requirements.