Level 3 Award in the Installation & Maintenance of Small-Scale Solar Photovoltaic Systems (SPV)

This course is ideal for electrotechnical professionals updating their skills or those pursuing continuous professional development, this course equips you with the knowledge and competence to confidently work in the solar PV sector. Please note: This qualification does not cover work at height or structural calculations, such as roof loading.

Description

Learners will:

  • know the health and safety risks and safe systems of work associated with solar photovoltaic system installation work.
  • know the requirements of the relevant regulations/ standards relating to practical installation, testing and commissioning activities for solar photovoltaic system installation work.
  • know the fundamental differences between AC and DC circuits within solar photovoltaic systems.
  • know the purpose of solar photovoltaic system components.
  • know the types, silicon characteristics and typical conversion efficiencies of solar photovoltaic modules.
  • know the fundamental design principles used to determine solar photovoltaic system module array size and position requirements.
  • know the preparatory work required for solar photovoltaic system installation work.
  • know the layouts and the requirements for installing solar photovoltaic module arrays.
  • know solar photovoltaic system DC and AC circuit installation layouts within the scope of the relevant Engineering Recommendation for grid tied systems.
  • know solar photovoltaic system protection techniques and components.

By the end of this course learners will have acquired underpinning knowledge and related skills for the installation of small scale solar photovoltaic systems and receive the appropriate certificate of competence.

Prerequisites

This qualification is designed for qualified and practicing electricians aged 18+. We will carry out an initial assessment to ensure you’re ready to complete the course successfully.

Entry Requirements:

Learners must provide evidence of the following pre-requisites:

  • Level 3 Award in the Requirements for Electrical Installations BS 7671 (current edition)

Plus one of the following:

  • Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Installing Electrotechnical Systems and Equipment
  • Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Electrotechnical Services (Electrical Installation or Maintenance)
  • Level 3 Electrotechnical Apprenticeship Qualification
  • Level 3 NVQ in Electrotechnical Services Experienced Worker
  • Level 3 Electrotechnical Experienced Worker Qualification
  • Level 3 Electrotechnical in Dwellings Experienced Worker Qualification
  • Building Services Engineering (Level 3) Electrotechnical Installation Qualification
  • SVQ in Electrical Installation at SCQF Level 7
  • Equivalent qualifications (see Tables A4.7 & A4.8, EAS Qualifications Guide)
  • Current ECS Gold Card issued by JIB or SJIB – Installation Electrician, Approved Electrician, Maintenance Electrician, or Domestic Electrician
  • Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and Exemptions

We also recognise prior learning and experience through the RPL process. This allows you to get credit for previous formal or informal learning, while still completing the required assessments to achieve your qualification.

Exam Information

The assessment is controlled (invigilated) and comprises of:

  • an online multiple choice exam
  • short written response questions
  • practical assessments

Dress Code

Candidates must bring the following items with them to the course:

  • Safety Boots/Suitable Footwear
  • High Visibility Vest/Jacket
  • Overalls/Suitable Workwear

Materials Required

Candidates are required to bring paper and a pen to make notes during their training.

All candidates must bring with them one of the following forms of ID:

  • A valid passport – no more than 6 months out of date
  • A valid UK photo driving license - no more than 6 months out of date
  • A photographic employee ID card 
  • A photographic ID card from an awarding body (e.g. IPAF, RTITB, NPORS)

If you do not have any of the above, please contact us for further information.

Length of Qualification

5 Years