Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the benefit of having the PV Associate certificate?
The PV Associated certificate is the first step toward earning an internationally-recognized solar certification. It is a professional credential that you can add to your resume that demonstrates a mastery of the fundamental principles of the application, design, installation and operation of grid-tied and stand-alone Photovoltaic Systems. Employers have confidence they are hiring or promoting someone who is committed to the profession, and who has a proven understanding of the basic terms and operational aspects of a Photovoltaic system.
2. Do I have to take an exam to receive the PV Associate certificate?
Yes. NABCEP requires all applicants to pass a general knowledge exam as part of the certification process. Our training program covers the application, design, installation, and operation of photovoltaic systems to prepare you for the NABCEP exam. The cost of the exam is included in our training program.
3. How much does the PV Associate exam cost?
The cost of the PV Associate exam is included in our training program. PDH-Pro will pay the examination fee to NABCEP on your behalf.
4. Who issues the PV Associate certificate?
Your certificate will be issued by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). NABCEP is an international organization that develops standards for the solar industry, and they established the PV Associate program as a way to identify professionals who have demonstrated mastery of the basic terms and operational aspects of PV systems. The PDH-Pro NABCEP PV Associate training program allows you to sit for the PV Associate exam.
5. What value does your NABCEP PV Associate training program provide?
Once you complete our training program, you are qualified you to sit for the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners PV Associate exam. All PV Associate applicants must complete an approved training program before they can apply to take the exam. Our program is sponsored by Job Corp through their NABCEP training license.
6. Who is this training program intended for?
Our training program was developed specifically for engineers who are interested in working in the solar industry and earning the NABCEP PV Associate credential. We understand that as a professional engineer, your educational training provides you with an understanding of the physics and engineering principles that the NABCEP exam covers. We build on that scientific knowledge to provide you with training on the specifics of solar application, design, installation,and operation.
7. Are there practice exams to help me prepare?
Yes. The program instructor provides an exam review (included) and NABCEP provides a practice exam for the PV Associate certificate as well. NAPBCEP practice exam.
8. Can I use the Online Training Courses to meet the continuing education requirement for my license renewal?
Yes. The 12 hours of online training courses are all technical in nature, and can be counted towards your continuing education goal. We provide a certificate of completion for each course in the package. Please note, as the registrant, you are responsible for determining if the continuing education activity meets the state board requirements.
9. What is included in the NABCEP PV Associate Training Package?
The PDH-Pro training package includes all training activities to meet the NABCEP PV Associate exam requirements. It also includes payment for the NABCEP exam. Learn more.