Rooftop solar is booming across the UK, and qualified installers are needed to keep up. Solar installer training usually builds on an existing electrical qualification: the core course is a Level 3 Award in installing and maintaining solar PV systems, typically completed in 3 to 5 days and costing around £500 to £1,000 privately, though some funded Skills Bootcamps include it for free.
Here are the solar PV qualifications you need, the entry requirements, how to reach MCS certification and what a career path in solar can look like.
- A recognised electrical qualification (Level 3) or equivalent experience
- Current 18th Edition Wiring Regulations knowledge
- Comfortable working at height on roofs
- For beginners: start with electrical training or a solar-focused Skills Bootcamp that includes foundation units
Key solar qualifications
| Course | Typical length | What it covers |
|---|---|---|
| Level 3 Award – Solar PV installation | 3–5 days | Design basics, mounting, DC wiring, inverters, testing and commissioning |
| Level 3 Award – Battery storage | 2–3 days | AC and DC-coupled batteries, safety and installation |
| Solar PV design and survey | 1–3 days | Shading analysis, sizing and performance estimates |
| Working at height / roof safety | 1 day | Ladders, scaffolds and fall protection |
| Inspection and testing (Level 3) | Several days | Certifying electrical installations |
These awards are offered by bodies such as LCL Awards, City & Guilds and BPEC through approved training centres.
Can you train for free?
Yes, in some cases. In England, green Skills Bootcamps in some areas include solar PV units for adults aged 19+, and apprentices in electrical installation may gain solar experience through their employer. Existing employees can ask whether their company will fund solar training, as qualified installers are central to winning work under government-backed schemes.
Becoming MCS certified
MCS certification is what allows customers to claim the Smart Export Guarantee and 0% VAT benefits, so most installation businesses need it. Many new installers start by working for an existing MCS-certified company.
A typical career path
- Installer’s mate – carrying, mounting rails and panels, learning on site.
- Solar PV installer – leading installations and DC/AC wiring.
- Surveyor or designer – assessing roofs, sizing systems and preparing quotes.
- Commercial solar or battery specialist – larger systems and storage projects.
- Business owner – running an MCS-certified installation company.
Course details reflect typical UK training provider offerings.
Independent guide – not linked to any training centre or awarding body.