Solar Training
Below are some classroom and installation training opportunities provided by other organizations. Although not mandatory, Energy Trust recommends that contractors attend an installation class prior to Energy Trust's technical training. If you would like to become an Energy Trust solar trade ally, you will need to fulfill our training requirements.
IBEW
The IBEW offers solar electric installation training which is open to the public. In Portland, contact the NECA-IBEW Electrical Training Center at 503.262.9991, or check their site at www.nietc.org. Other training centers throughout the state offer additional training; look up your local IBEW for more information.
SEI
Solar Energy International offers a number of very high quality training courses and seminars on both solar electric and solar water heating in various locations around the country on a regular basis. SEI can be reached at 970.963.8855, or on the web at www.solarenergy.org.
OSEIA
The Oregon Solar Energy Industries Association offers various installer training opportunities throughout the year, including a slate of courses available at the NW Solar Expo. OSEIA also provides information about the Oregon licenses necessary for the installations of solar energy systems. For more information, please contact OSEIA at 503.236.0367, or see the website at www.oregonseai.org/ProfessionalTraining.
LCC
Lane Community College operates the Northwest Energy Education Institute which offers a full two year Renewable Energy Technician associates degree geared toward individuals interested in the design and installation of renewable energy systems. It also administers apprenticeship programs for the installation of solar electric and thermal systems. Lane/NEEI can be reached at 541.463.3977, or on the web at www.nweei.org.
Electrician Solar Electric Self-install Offer
Normally homeowner-installed PV systems are not eligible for Energy Trust incentives. However, since hands-on experience is the best way to learn and word of mouth is the best way to promote the technology, Energy Trust will provide a one-time incentive to licensed electricians to install their own PV systems when they meet certain requirements. To learn more about this special offer, please read the electrician eligibility fact sheet (PDF).