North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners
The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is the leading certification body for renewable energy professionals in North America, specializing in photovoltaics, solar heating, and small wind technologies. Here’s a breakdown of its key aspects:
Certifications Offered
NABCEP provides two main credential levels:
Associate Credentials: Entry-level exams for foundational knowledge (e.g., PV Associate Exam).
Professional Certifications: Advanced credentials requiring training and field experience, including:
- PV Installation Professional (PVIP)
- PV Technical Sales (PVTS)
- PV Design Specialist (PVDS)
- Solar Heating Installer (SHI)
- System Inspector certifications (PVSI, SHSI)
Accreditation & Recognition
- NABCEP’s PV Installation Professional Certification has been ANSI/ISO/IEC 17024 accredited since 2007.
- Certifications are mandated or preferred for state rebate programs (e.g., Minnesota, Maine, California) and contractor licensing (e.g., Utah).
- Only 10 companies held NABCEP Company Accreditation as of 2018.
Exam Formats
Computer-Based Testing (CBT): Available at testing centers for $150.
Live Remote Proctoring (LRP): Online option for accessibility.
Training Requirements
- Associate exams require coursework (e.g., Solar Energy International’s PV101/PVOL101).
- Professional certifications demand hands-on experience (e.g., OSHA-10 equivalency for PVIP).
NABCEP is widely regarded as the "gold standard" for solar industry credentials, ensuring competency and consumer trust.
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