The solar industry has grown exponentially over the last decade, bringing with it hundreds of thousands of jobs. The U.S. Department of Energy Solar Energy Technologies Office (SETO) funds workforce training programs to enable more people to enter the solar energy workforce and to allow those whose jobs are impacted by solar energy to get the information they need to do their jobs.
If you’re interested in working in the solar industry, check out some of the resources below:
Solar Career Map developed by the Interstate Renewable Energy Council (IREC).
Solar Career Map
Use the Solar Career Map to explore 40 jobs across four industry sectors and identify more than 60 routes to advancement between them. Additional opportunities for progress and promotion can be found within any given occupation on the map, and multi-sector pathways reinforce the idea of lifelong learning and the natural evolution of skills and interests.
Resources
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The solar industry is an important source of employment for returning veterans, who comprise an increasing portion of the solar workforce. -
The Solar Ready Vets Network is a group of solar workforce development programs for veterans and transitioning military service members.
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The U.S. Department of Energy American-Made Upskill Prize for the Solar Manufacturing Workforce is a multi-million-dollar competition designed to accelerate the expansion of the U.S. solar manufacturing workforce and train workers with relevant skills.November 26, 2024
Training Resources
- Solar Professional Board Certifications from NABCEP: For those considering a career in solar photovoltaics (PV) as well as established PV professionals looking to earn board certifications from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP).
- Advancing Equity Through Workforce Partnerships Funding Program: For those seeking local workforce training and apprenticeship opportunities.
- Solar Energy Training Programs: For those who want to start a career in solar energy, maintain a credential, or install solar on their home, the Midwest Renewable Energy Association offers online and in-person courses.
- Learn about this project's success: Midwest Colleges and Employers Join Forces for Solar Workforce Training
- Hands-On Photovoltaic Experience (HOPE): For graduate students and faculty participating in PV research to gain hands-on experience at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory.
- Architect's Primer on Renewable Energy: For architects looking for a starter guide to incorporate renewable energy in their work, developed by the American Institute of Architects .
- Solar Lending Professional Training - Virtual Series: For community lending institutions looking to launch and grow green loan products with training and technical assistance from the University of New Hampshire.
Learn about the benefits of the solar energy workforce. View other solar energy resources, learn about SETO's research areas, and learn about the basics of solar energy.
Jobs at SETO
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Ready to start building our clean energy future with a new career in the Solar Energy Technologies Office?November 27, 2024
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Fellowships provide an opportunity for scientists, engineers, and researchers to lead and improve projects to meet the SETO goals.May 6, 2025