How do I become a solar panel installer in the UK?

Key facts

You need to be a qualified electrician or roofer to find work in this industry
If you're already an electrician you should gain your MCS certification
PV installation training costs between £600 - £750
Training takes 3 to 5 days depending on the course
The average solar installer salary is £37,912
PV installers are in high demand

What qualifications do I need to install solar panels?

Technically you do not need a qualification to install solar panels — some homeowners even attempt to do it themselves. However, in practice, if you want to operate as a solar installer and find work, you will need to be officially qualified.

Recommended qualifications

MCS certification — Usually granted to companies; involves significant training and assessment
Competent Person Scheme — Complete work without local council approval
Part P Competent Person Scheme — Undertake domestic electrical work and self-certify
Level 2 & 3 Diploma in Electrical Installation — Recognised electrical qualifications

Do you have to be a qualified electrician to install solar panels?

Technically, any person can install solar panels. However, connecting the solar energy supply to the mains electricity network requires a qualified electrician.

In most cases, solar installations are completed by a team of electricians often with the help of a roofer (if the panels are installed on a roof).

What training is needed to become a solar technician?

To work on solar installations you should first qualify as an electrician and then specialise in solar installs. You can either do this by taking a college course or by completing an apprenticeship.

College course

At college, start by gaining your standard electrical qualifications:

College pathway

Level 2 Diploma in Electrical Installations — Basic skills foundation
Level 3 Diploma in Electrical Installations — Builds on Level 2 learning
Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Electrotechnical Technology — Full electrician qualification

Apprenticeships

If you don't fancy studying at college, an apprenticeship is a great way to learn practical skills while on the job. Typically takes around 2 years to complete and qualifies you as an electrician.

Solar installation course

Once you've completed your college training or apprenticeship, consider a specialist solar installation course:

BPEC Solar PV

• ~£608 cost
• 5 days duration
• Industry recognised

NICEIC Solar PV

• ~£625 cost
• 4 days duration
• Installer focused

Level 3 Solar PV Installers Course — £725, 5 days

How much does it cost to become a solar panel installer?

The cost varies depending on your current stage of training.

£8,000 - £10,000

Total cost from scratch

Including Level 2, Level 3, NVQ and solar installation course

Starting from scratch

• Level 2, 3 & NVQ: £7,000-£9,000
• Solar course: £600-£700
• Total: £8,000-£10,000

Already qualified electrician

• Solar course only: £600-£700
• Employer may cover costs
• Significantly lower investment

How long does it take to become a solar panel installer?

Training timeline

Level 2 Diploma — ~8 weeks
Level 3 Diploma — ~8 weeks
NVQ — 3 to 24 months
Solar installation course — 3 to 5 days

The quickest you could become qualified (completing all courses back-to-back) would be 7 months 3 days. In reality, gaining necessary experience typically takes over a year minimum.

How much does a solar panel installer make UK?

£37,912

Average salary

Based on data from Talent, Adzuna, Reed and Totaljobs

Salaries vary by location. For example, electricians tend to earn more in Sheffield than in London on average.

Pros and cons of becoming a solar installer

2,286

Qualified PV contractors in UK

As of May 2023 — a 66% increase from the previous year

The work is well paid and good value for the time it takes. As a career, it's a good combination of practical work and technical skill which makes it an interesting and varied job.

Advantages

• High demand for installers
• Varied and interesting work
• Well paid profession
• Growing industry

Challenges

• Involves paperwork and admin
• Materials shortages possible
• Cost of initial training
• DNO compliance requirements

A note on admin

As an installer, you need to understand building regulations and complete paperwork. This includes contacting the Distribution Network Operator (DNO) to notify them of completed installations.

What next?

Once you've decided to get qualified and start work as a PV installer, you need to think about how you're going to manage your new customers.

Grow your solar business

The best way to organise your business and provide the best experience for your customers is to use high-quality CRM and job management software. Payaca provides market-leading features including customised automation and multiple choice quoting designed for businesses like yours.

If you're interested in other forms of green energy, consider becoming a heat pump installer — another high-demand career in the renewable energy sector.