Careers & Education in Solar Energy
Although technology for solar energy has been around for almost 50 years, more recently it's become popular, because there's a collective concern globally that we're depleting the earth's natural resources. Finding ways to use more renewable energy, such as solar energy, has become a global priority.
Careers and education in solar energy will continue to expand. Because solar and renewable energy are growing and important industries, employers of all types are looking for professionals with solar energy knowledge.
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What does photovoltaic mean in relation to solar energy?
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When you review solar energy careers and education programs, you may see job openings and educational information with titles involving the word "photovoltaic." Photovoltaic is simply defined as converting light into electricity. Photo refers to "light," and voltaic refers to "electric." Photovoltaics also refer to devices that convert light into direct current (DC) electricity, also known as solar cells.
As the need for solar and renewable energy grow, more of these terms will become more recognizable. If you review job openings, "photovoltaic" in the job title will have to do with solar cells and renewable energy.
Solar Installers
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Solar installers, sometimes called photovoltaic (PV) installers, are in high demand as many homes continue to convert to solar powering. Many of these positions require NABCEP certifications, which are offered through the North American Board of Energy Practitioners. Some positions also look for previous experience as an electrician, or knowledge of NEC codes.
Because of the growing demand for solar technology, some organizations will train a solar installer with little or no experience and allow him to obtain certifications as he learns the job.
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Photovoltaic or Solar Engineers
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Solar or photovoltaic engineers are also in high demand. Many businesses are producing solar energy, and hire solar engineers in a variety of positions. Because solar cells are built with semiconductors, an engineer with a semiconductor background could move into a photovoltaic or solar engineer position. Other requirements can include previous experience with power plant solar systems, or previous electrical design experience.
Education Options for a Career in Solar Energy
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Currently, solar energy positions involving engineering and science require a bachelor's degree in physics, material science, electrical engineering, chemistry or a combination of these studies. Because of the technology involved with solar energy, even sales positions may require a degree in engineering or science.
Some colleges and universities developed certificate or master's degree programs in renewable energy, and are continuing to develop new curriculums. Depending on the future interest of renewable energy, it's possible that other degree programs will be offered.
The Future of Solar Energy
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The American Solar Energy Society estimated that, in 2006, there were 7,600 jobs in the solar photovoltaic and solar thermal energy industries, most of which were photovoltaic installations.
The US Department of Energy continues to offer grants and tax credits for organizations that are researching or developing renewable energy solutions, which will continue to open more opportunities in solar energy careers.
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