man installing solar panels

The field of solar energy is growing by leaps and bounds; residential and commercial solar installations are becoming more and more commonplace. With that growth has come high demand for skilled and qualified installation professionals. Theoretically, any skilled, handy person can attempt a solar installation, but a solid, reliable installation takes more than just skill with tools. Solar installations involve complex electrical and structural work, as well as adherence to local building codes and regulations. Specialized training and expertise are needed to ensure the safety, performance, and longevity of any solar installation.

That’s why, if you’re shopping for a solar energy system, you also need to shop for an installer. The quality of the installation can significantly impact the efficiency, reliability, and overall performance of your system. A reputable and experienced installer will have the necessary technical skills and knowledge of local regulations, permitting processes, and best practices for system design and installation. By choosing a qualified installer, you can be confident your solar energy system will be installed correctly and operate optimally for years to come. Beyond that, reputable installers often offer warranties and ongoing support for all your maintenance needs.

The best way to determine if an installer is the right person for your job is to look for professional certification. Professional certification establishes a baseline of credibility, expertise, and trustworthiness. Among the various certifications available to solar installers, one stands out from the bunch: the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) certification. Why is NABCEP certification the gold standard, and why should your system be installed by an NABCEP-certified professional? Let’s take a closer look.

NABCEP Certification

The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a nonprofit organization that serves as the leading certification authority for renewable energy professionals, particularly in the fields of solar photovoltaics (PV) and solar thermal technologies. NABCEP was founded in 2002 with the mission of promoting high standards of excellence, professionalism, and safety within the renewable energy industry.

NABCEP offers rigorous certification programs designed to validate the knowledge, skills, and competency of individuals working in the renewable energy industry. The organization's certification exams cover a range of topics, including PV system design, installation, maintenance, and inspection, as well as solar heating system installation and design. Renewable energy professionals who do the hard work to obtain NABCEP certification have demonstrated their commitment to upholding industry standards and best practices.

NABCEP certification is widely recognized and respected and serves as a benchmark of excellence for employers, customers, and policymakers alike. Candidates becoming world-class solar installers must meet eligibility requirements, including completing specified training hours and passing a comprehensive exam covering technical, design, and installation aspects of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems. NABCEP certification is valid for three years and renewable through continuing education, which is important because solar technology continues to evolve and advance.

thumbs up in front of solar panels

Why Does NABCEP Certification Matter to You?

The value of NABCEP cannot be overstated. Here are 10 reasons your solar installation needs to be done by an NABCEP-certified professional:

  • 1. Expertise and Knowledge: NABCEP-certified installers have demonstrated comprehensive knowledge and expertise in solar PV system design, installation, maintenance, and inspection through rigorous training and examination. No other installers know more.
  • 2. Quality Assurance: NABCEP certification ensures installers adhere to industry best practices and standards, resulting in high-quality installations that meet or exceed regulatory requirements and manufacturer specifications.
  • 3. Enhanced Safety: Certified installers are trained to prioritize safety throughout the installation process, minimizing the risk of accidents, electrical hazards, and structural failures.
  • 4. Reliable Performance: NABCEP-certified installations are designed and executed with precision, optimizing system performance, efficiency, and reliability for long-term operation.
  • 5. Compliance and Permitting: Certified installers are familiar with local building codes, permitting processes, and regulatory requirements, ensuring compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.
  • 6. Customer Satisfaction: NABCEP-certified installers are committed to delivering exceptional service and customer satisfaction, providing peace of mind and confidence to homeowners and businesses investing in solar energy.
  • 7. Professionalism and Integrity: Certification demonstrates a commitment to professionalism, integrity, and ethical conduct, fostering trust and confidence in the installer-client relationship.
  • 8. Access to Incentives and Rebates: Many government incentives, rebates, and financing programs require installations to be performed by NABCEP-certified professionals, making certification essential for accessing financial incentives and maximizing return on investment.
  • 9. Continued Education: NABCEP-certified installers must maintain their certification through ongoing education and training, ensuring they stay current with industry developments, technologies, and best practices.
  • 10. Peace of Mind: By hiring an NABCEP-certified installer, you can have confidence your solar energy system will be installed correctly, safely, and efficiently and provide reliable clean energy for years to come.

NABCEP and PowerStore

At PowerStore, we are passionate about NABCEP certification, upholding industry standards, and delivering exceptional service to our customers. Every solar installation we undertake always meets the highest quality and safety standards because all of our representatives are NABCEP certified. Our commitment to excellence and professionalism is reflected in our team's credentials.

NABCEP certification helps solar installers distinguish themselves in the competitive solar industry, and PowerStore’s team of certified installers distinguishes us from other solar equipment companies. Our team, plus our inventory of the highest quality solar power components, make us the only choice for your solar power needs. World class products, top notch installation services, and superior customer care are why solar customers around the world trust PowerStore. Give us a call today to learn more.