NOCN Level 3 Award for Solar PV Installer and Operator

£1,000 per learner → £500 after WHSP funding + VAT

This course provides learners with an understanding of solar photovoltaic systems installation, commissioning, and operation and maintenance.

Duration

120 hours, with 72 guided learning hours

Perfect For

Qualified electricians aiming to install solar PV systems, who hold a Level 3 NVQ or 18th Edition BS 7671 certification and want to meet UK industry standards.

What You’ll Get

Nationally Recognised Qualification

Delivery Mode

clasroom based and online

Course Description

This course is part funded by the Warm Homes Skills Programme, delivered on behalf of DESNZ.

 

This course provides learners with an understanding of solar photovoltaic systems installation, commissioning, and operation and maintenance. Designed for learners with a background as electrical, mechanical, civil and energy professionals or those in their last year of study in the above related fields. It is also suitable for technicians with at least two years’ experience in an associated job role. This qualification is available to learners aged 18 and over.

Course Details

Why Choose This Course?

This course is an excellent choice for anyone looking to gain a comprehensive understanding of solar photovoltaic systems, from installation and commissioning to ongoing operation and maintenance. Tailored for electrical, mechanical, civil, and energy professionals—as well as final-year students in these fields—it bridges technical knowledge with hands-on, industry-relevant skills. Technicians with at least two years of related experience will also benefit from the practical insights and structured learning, enabling them to expand their expertise and advance their careers. Open to learners aged 18 and over, this qualification equips participants with the knowledge and confidence to contribute effectively to the growing renewable energy sector.

 

Flexible Learning

Our courses are flexible around your needs as a business. We offer timings to suit you, including evenings and weekend courses. We will go through your options during the sign up process.

 

Delivery

Training and assessment can be delivered at our Apex Training Centre in Basingstoke, equipped with purpose-built rigs and facilities for solar PV installation and testing. However, delivery may also take place at employer premises, renewable energy training centres, or specialist hired facilities, depending on regional availability. All venues undergo due diligence and health & safety checks to ensure they are safe, accessible, and appropriate for hands-on technical training.

 

Each location is selected to minimise travel for learners while providing a realistic environment for skills development.

 

Content Overview

This course covers the essential knowledge and skills required to understand solar photovoltaic systems installation, commissioning, and operation and maintenance. Including:

  • Understanding of the process of pre-commissioning testing, commissioning using appropriate meters and tools, including handover to client
  • Understanding of the installation process of a solar PV system, starting from pre-installation visit and progressing through installation of components
  • Understanding of the process of operating and maintaining a solar PV system

 

Entry Requirements

There are no formal entry requirements for this qualification. It is designed for individuals with a background as electrical, mechanical, civil and energy professionals or those in their last year of study in the above related fields. It is also suitable for technicians with at least two years’ experience in an associated job role. This qualification is available to learners aged 18 and over.

 

Award

On successful completion of the course and assessment, learners will be awarded a nationally recognised qualification by NOCN. This award demonstrates that the holder has knowledge of the processes of installation, commissioning, operation and maintenance of solar photovoltaic systems, and the skills to be able to complete the processes.

Nationally Recognised Qualification

Practical tasks and multiple choice test

NOCN

NOCN Level 3 Award for Solar PV Installer and Operator

£1,000 per learner → £500 after WHSP funding + VAT