Members of our installation team are NABCEP certified installers. Between them, they hold multiple certifications including the prestigious NABCEP PV Installation Professional® (PVIP) certification. We think that matters and we think you will, too.
What is NABCEP?
NABCEP is an acronym. It stands for North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners. NABCEP is a nonprofit national certification organization founded in 2002. They are the leading certifier for solar panel installation.
Where is NABCEP located?
NABCEP is a U.S. organization, headquartered in Clifton Park, NY. They are just north of Albany.
Who Pursues NABCEP Certification?
Professionals in the renewable energy industry become NABCEP certified installers. NABCEP certifications include:
– NABCEP PV Installation Professional® (PVIP)
– NABCEP Solar Heating Installer® (SHI)
– NABCEP PV Technical Sales Professional® (PVTS)
– NABCEP PV System Inspector® (PVSI)
– NABCEP Solar Heating System Inspector® (SHSI)
and three (3) PV Specialist Certifications including:
– PV Design Specialist™ (PVDS)
– PV Installer Specialist™ (PVIS)
– PV Commissioning & Maintenance Specialist™ (PVCMS).
NABCEP’s Associate Credentials include:
– PV Associate™ (PVA)
– Solar Heating Associate™ (SHA)
– Small Wind Associate™ (SWA).
Why Do Renewable Energy Professionals Become NABCEP Certified Installers?
1. A Test of Competence
NABCEP certifications are evidence of having passed competency testing. Consider the NABCEP PV Installation Professional (PVIP) certification which is widely considered the gold standard certification for solar installers. The PVIP certification illustrates that the certified professional passed an exam that rigorously tested their knowledge of solar industry standards and best practices. By holding NABCEP certifications, solar installers demonstrate that they are highly competent to design, install, commission, operate, and maintain photovoltaic systems.
2. Government Rebates
NABCEP certification is important for another reason. Depending on the government rebate program and the state, at least one person on an installation project must hold the certification for the customer to receive governmental rebates.
For example, in New York state, the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) through the NY Sun Incentive Program provides cash offers incentives for approved, grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) systems projects that use certified contractors.
The cash incentives are for the installation of approved, grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) systems. The program offers incentives for residential solar systems that are 25 kW or less and for non-residential systems that are 200 kW or less. To qualify for the program, NYSERDA requires that the installers are certified by either the Underwriters Laboratories (UL), the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) or the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP).
When Should I Ask about NABCEP Certifications?
Like any investment, you want to know about the costs, incentives, and expected return on your investment. You’ll also want to choose the right partner to perform a quality install and help make the most of your money. To protect your investment, you’ll want to hire someone who is NABCEP certified.
So, when should your ask about NABCEP certification(s)? When you’re shopping for a residential or commercial solar system, it’s the time to ask about NABCEP certifications.
Specifically, here’s what you should ask:
1. Can you please provide me with the names of all those who will perform my solar installation?
2. Can you please provide me with a list of all NABCEP certifications those individuals hold, along with the relevant certification numbers?
Next, navigate to NABCEP’s professional directory and confirm the information. Search for the individual installers and check out their certifications.
Shopping for a solar installation represents a substantial investment. Knowing the “what, where, who, why, when” of NABCEP certification enables you to make sound decisions.
If you’re in our service area and you’re ready for a free quote, you know what to do. Don’t forget to ask about the NABCEP certifications of our installers.