About this qualification

This solar training was previously delivered through E-tec and is now offered through Skills Trades Training, with the same course and the same NZQA recognition.

SEANZ (Sustainable Energy Association of New Zealand) endorses this course, which teaches you to solve basic problems in PV systems, carry out repairs to renewable energy equipment, and design and install stand-alone renewable energy systems that work reliably off-grid.

You'll learn to work with solar, wind, micro-hydro, and backup generators to create complete off-grid power solutions. This is the most advanced renewable energy training available.

What's covered in this course

Off-grid system basics, solar and battery sizing, wind and micro-hydro options, backup generators, wiring and protection, installation techniques, maintenance and troubleshooting. Real-world skills for designing systems that actually work when you're miles from the nearest power pole.

Who needs this course

This is the advanced course - you need to be a registered electrician, engineer or inspector, and you must have completed the grid-connected PV and battery storage courses first. This is for tradies ready to tackle complex off-grid projects.

Course outcome

NZQA Level 4 Micro-credential 4557 (20 credits)

This course is endorsed by SEANZ (Sustainable Energy Association of New Zealand).

At the end of this learning package, learners will be able to:

Carry out and document preparation work and problem-solving on photovoltaic energy apparatus and systems.
Carry out preparation and repairs to RE apparatus including work activities.
Carry out and document preparation and problem solving on stand-alone RE systems.
Determine and develop stand-alone RE system design.
Obtain design approval for stand-alone RE system.
Prepare to install and install ELV stand-alone PV power apparatus and systems.

Course structure

4-day course – 8am to 4.30pm
Post-course assessment against a real design brief, so you leave knowing you can do the job, not just that you've sat through it.

Self-paced online learning – 152 hours approx. (with tutor support) must be completed prior to attendance at the in-person course.

What you will learn

  • Sort out problems with PV systems and fix renewable energy gear 
  • Figure out what customers actually need for off-grid power
  • Design stand-alone systems that work reliably
  • Get design approval and handle the paperwork
  • Install complete off-grid PV systems properly
  • Document your work so it passes inspection

Key Information

You must be a Registered Electrician, Registered Electrical Engineer or Registered Electrical Inspector holding the GCPV and GCBS Micro-credentials to enrol in this course.

Duration: 152 hours of online learning, followed by a 4-day in-person course

Cost: $3,105 incl GST. A printed version of the course material is available on request for $200 incl GST.

Credits: 20

Intake dates: See below. At least half of your online learning should be completed before attending your block course.

Filter intakes by location

There are no intakes currently scheduled, but click the 'Enquire now' button to register your interest and we'll let you know when this course becomes available.

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