Monday, March 18, 2024

What Do Solar Panel Installers Get Paid

How Much Do Solar Installers Get Paid

Do You Get Paid For Making Solar Electricity?

A Solar Photovoltaic Installer will normally receive an average salary ranging between 32000 to 48000 depending on experience and domain knowledge. Solar Photovoltaic Installers will normally get a wage of Forty Eight Thousand Seven Hundred dollars per annum.

How do you get a solar contractors license? Below are some of the requirements needed to become a licensed Solar Contractor in the State of Florida: Age. Must be at least 18 years of age. Examination. Experience / Education. Financial / Credit. Fingerprints. Insurance. Solar Exam. Business and Finance Exam.

Educational And Training Requirements

The majority of solar installers have at least a high school diploma and some sort of experience in mechanical or electrical installation.

Construction experience, especially roofing, can also be useful since solar panel installation often requires installers to work in high spaces and on dangerous surfaces like uneven or slanted rooftops. An associates degree in electrical work or a related field is also valued by employers and may help installers gain advancement opportunities more quickly. Although a degree is helpful, most of a solar installers skills can be learned on the job. Solar installers need to master a variety of mechanical skills to perform their work, including the use of power and hand tools, electrical knowledge, and basic math and problem-solving skills. It is also important for solar installers to be capable of heavy lifting, as a typical solar panel can weigh from 30 to 40 pounds. Although certification as a solar panel installer is not required in all states, it can help with career advancement.

Solar Panel Price Comparison: 2013 Vs Today

My solar panels, which are an older polycrystalline module, cost $2.66 per watt back in 2013.

Thats pretty expensive compared to what you can get today. If you go to one of the onlineretailers, you can find premium solar panels for about $1.00 per watt.

Less expensive brands can cost around $0.55 per watt. Even those that may be considered budget brands are often made of monocrystalline silicon that are higher quality than the ones I installed in 2013.

The average home installation today is 6.4 kW in size, so the table below reflects the average cost that a person might pay for a home solar panel system in 2021.

Price comparison: solar panel prices in 2013 vs 2021

6.4 kW polycrystalline panels $17,024
6.4 kW monocrystalline budget panels $3,520

These are approximate, of course. The price you get from your installer will depend on the products they offer, their profit margin, and other factors.

Read Also: Can You Put Pine Sol Down The Drain

Utility Bill Rate Design

Good electricity rate design allows you to save money when you save energy. This might sound intuitive but not all provinces are same. Superior designs have low fixed monthly fees and tiered electricity rates. Inferior designs have high fixed fees and flat electricity rates.

Ontario scores near the front of the pack when it comes to these factors having time-of-use rates and fixed monthly fees of $26 .

For example, reducing your electricity bill from 1,500 to 750 kWh per month will save you 54% on your electricity bill in British Columbia, 48% in , but only 43% in Ontario!

Note that fixed monthly fees dont disappear even if you switch to solar youll pay them as long as you remain connected to the grid. But this isnt a bad thing $26/mo is a small price to pay for using the grid as your back-up energy source!

The only way to completely remove your fixed costs is to go off the grid, something most homeowners in Ontario dont do because of high battery costs.

Disconnecting from the grid also means that you wont be able to participate in your utilitys net metering program.

What Do Solar Photovoltaic Installers Do

Solar Panel Installation Guide

PV installers typically do the following:

  • Plan PV system configurations based on customer needs and site conditions
  • Measure, cut, and assemble the support structure for solar PV panels
  • Install solar modules, panels, and support structures in accordance with building codes and standards
  • Connect PV panels to the electrical system
  • Apply weather sealant to equipment being installed
  • Activate and test PV systems
  • Perform routine PV system maintenance

Solar PV panels convert sunlight to electricity, and PV installers put these systems in place. PV installers use a variety of hand and power tools to install PV panels. They often use drills, wrenches, saws, and screwdrivers to connect panels to frames, wires, and support structures.

Many new PV installers begin by performing basic tasks, such as installing support structures and placing PV panels or PV shingles on top of them. Once the panels are in place, more-experienced installers usually perform more-complex duties, such as connecting electrical components.

Depending on the job and state laws, PV installers may connect the solar panels to the electric grid, although electricians sometimes perform this duty. Once the panels are installed, workers check the electrical systems for proper wiring, polarity, and grounding, and they also perform maintenance as needed.

Also Check: How To Get Certified In Solar Panel Installation

What Are Top 10 Highest Paying Cities For Solar Installer Jobs

Weve identified 10 cities where the typical salary for a Solar Installer job is above the national average. Topping the list is Sunnyvale, CA, with Santa Rosa, CA and Cambridge, MA close behind in the second and third positions. Cambridge, MA beats the national average by $7,805 , and Sunnyvale, CA furthers that trend with another $11,157 above the $42,341 average.

Importantly, Sunnyvale, CA has a moderately active Solar Installer job market with only a few companies currently hiring for this type of role.

With these 10 cities having average salaries higher than the national average, the opportunities for economic advancement by changing locations as a Solar Installer appears to be exceedingly fruitful.

Finally, another factor to consider is the average salary for these top ten cities varies very little at 12% between Sunnyvale, CA and Baltimore, MD, reinforcing the limited potential for much wage advancement. The possibility of a lower cost of living may be the best factor to use when considering location and salary for a Solar Installer role.

City
$22.63

Buying A House With Solar Panels In A Lease Or Ppa

As previously mentioned, leasing a solar panel system means the homeowner sends monthly payments to the company that installed the solar equipment. If the house youre interested in is leasing a solar panel system, its important that you find out more information about the lease terms and you understand the lease contract and deal. Feel free to ask about what monthly fees come with the system, and find out whether payments are escalating or not. If youre satisfied with the lease terms, and your personal financial situation can handle a solar system lease, the solar company can easily transfer your name to the lease after you pass the credit check. But if youre set on a house and not comfortable with the current lease, its possible that you might be able to negotiate with the previous owner to see if they will compensate you or pay off the remainder of the lease.

Recommended Reading: What’s Bad About Solar Energy

Is Solar Energy A Good Career

renewable energyenergyjobcareerssolarenergySolargood

Fleur Brusemeister

Here are the most in-demand jobs for 2019

  • Application software developer. Annual median salary:$101,790.
  • Medical services manager. Annual median salary: $98,350.
  • Registered nurse. Annual median salary: $70,000.
  • Medical technologist. Annual median salary: $51,770.
  • Construction laborer. Annual median salary: $34,350.
  • Nursing assistant.
  • Average Training Program Duration: 1

    SOLAR PANEL INSTALLERS: good salary in a fast growing industry, Solar Installer careers!

    Whether you go to college online or in person, or if youd prefer to start a technical school program, the time it takes to train to become a Solar Panel Installer may vary.

    People that want to work in construction as Solar Panel Installers can earn an Associates degree, which can take about two years.

    Sometimes, its possible to gain employment as a Solar Panel Installer with no training whatsoever, but most employers will not hire anyone that doesnt have at least 6 weeks to two months of training.

    This can be done through a trade school, online, or possibly through your prospective employer as well.

    Don’t Miss: How Much Does Solar Panels Cost In Ghana

    Duties Of Solar Photovoltaic Installers

    PV installers typically do the following:

    • Plan PV system configurations based on customer needs and site conditions
    • Measure, cut, and assemble the support structure for solar PV panels
    • Install solar modules, panels, and support structures in accordance with building codes and standards
    • Connect PV panels to the electrical system
    • Apply weather sealant to equipment being installed
    • Activate and test PV systems
    • Perform routine PV system maintenance

    Solar PV panels convert sunlight to electricity, and PV installers put these systems in place. PV installers use a variety of hand and power tools to install PV panels. They often use drills, wrenches, saws, and screwdrivers to connect panels to frames, wires, and support structures.

    Many new PV installers begin by performing basic tasks, such as installing support structures and placing PV panels or PV shingles on top of them. Once the panels are in place, more-experienced installers usually perform more-complex duties, such as connecting electrical components.

    Depending on the job and state laws, PV installers may connect the solar panels to the electric grid, although electricians sometimes perform this duty. Once the panels are installed, workers check the electrical systems for proper wiring, polarity, and grounding, and they also perform maintenance as needed.

    Important Qualities For Solar Photovoltaic Installers

    Communication skills. PV installers often need to communicate effectively with clients to ensure customer satisfaction and with other workers to ensure that proper safety and installation procedures are followed.

    Detail oriented. PV installers must carefully follow instructions during installation. If they fail to do so, the system may not work properly.

    Mechanical skills. PV installers work with complex electrical and mechanical equipment in order to build support structures for solar panels and to connect the panels to the electrical system.

    Physical stamina. PV installers are often on their feet carrying panels and other heavy equipment. When installing rooftop panels, workers may need to climb ladders many times throughout the day.

    Physical strength. PV installers often lift heavy equipment and materials weighing up to 50 pounds.

    Don’t Miss: How To Make A Simple Solar Panel

    If Youre Just Starting To Think About Getting Solar Installed On Your Home One Of The First Questions Youll Ask Is How Much You Can Expect To Pay

    A couple decades ago, home solar panels were prohibitively expensive for the average homeowner and were limited to enthusiasts running low power, off-grid setups for small homes, such as a cabin in the woods.

    Today, prices have dropped to the point where an average homeowner can affordably install enough solar panels on their roof to provide 100% of their electricity needs. So what can you expect to actually pay for a system like this?

    The answer is: it depends. It depends on how much electricity you use, which way your roof is pointing , how much shade you get, what your local climate is, and more. You can use our calculator to get a quick estimate, or get multiple quotes from solar installers for an exact number.

    Microinverter Prices: 2013 Versus Today

    How Do You Pay For Your Solar Panel Installation ...

    My system uses Enphase M215 microinverters, which is an older generation of the Enphase microinverter product line. On my invoice, they cost $96 per unit.

    Today, you can purchase the latest generation Enphase IQ7 for $68 each. Thats 70% of the per-unit cost compared to 2013, but its even better than that because the IQ7 is a more capable unit that supports up to 350 watts, compared to the 270 watt capacity of the M215.

    Don’t Miss: Where Are Rec Solar Panels Manufactured

    Are Solar Panels Worth The Trouble

    Lets get to the bottom line and help you decide whether solar panels are really right for you. In order to figure that out, you have to consider installation costs, average energy savings and sales price.

    According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, the average cost of a solar installation is about $3.09 per watt for a 5.2-kilowatt setup. If you do the math, that comes out to $16,068 in installation costs. The cost could be quite a bit lower if your state or local energy company offers incentives for installation.

    If youre worried about the maintenance costs that come with having solar equipment, you shouldnt fear. If you purchased or are making loan payments to the system, you own it, which means youre fully responsible for maintaining it. But luckily, solar equipment is known for its durability and has warranties, so you wont have to worry too much about maintenance. Leasing solar equipment has even less maintenance on your part because the company that owns the system is responsible for maintaining it. However, there are many apps you can use to track the performance and maintenance of your solar panel systems.

    The good news is that adding solar panels could likely boost your home value. According to a government-sponsored study from the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, the average sales boost from the average solar panel installation is about $15,000. That means that your solar panels would more or less pay for themselves upon the sale of your home.

    Bottom Line: It Doesnt Hurt To Ask

    If you have multiple quotes with similar equipment but different prices, donât be afraid to ask a company to match or beat the price of another. Just say something like: âCompany A is offering similar equipment at a lower price-per-watt. Can you match it?â

    If they say no, just say thanks and accept the price for what it is. Donât hard bargain the company: remember that the profit margins in home solar arenât huge, and they probably are giving you close to their best price already.

    So good luck with your negotiations, but remember this: when getting solar quotes, your focus should be on finding the best company, not the cheapest price. A good company will be accurate when doing the solar energy projection for your system, recommend high quality equipment at a fair price, and provide reliable warranty service if you need it. Things like that are a lot more valuable than the small amount of money you might save by going with a less reputable company.

    TAGS

    Recommended Reading: Can I Buy Solar Panels And Install Myself

    Larger Systems Have Lower Price

    The biggest part of the cost of a home solar system isnât hardware, but soft costs. These are things with relatively fixed costs for the installer such as permitting, labor, supply chain costs, and overhead.

    This is why itâs cheaper on a per-watt basis to buy a larger system, and more expensive to buy a smaller one.

    For example, while the median cost of solar in the US is $3.72/W, residential systems that are very large have a price-per-watt of $3.28/W, and very small systems cost $4.22/W.

    Do Electricians Install Solar Panels

    Do It Yourself Solar Power? – Easy DIY Solar Panel Installation!

    Electricians installelectricalsystemsinstallElectricianssolar panels

    Sheyla Prabhath

  • Find out how to become certified in your state.
  • Create your business plan.
  • Include Costs, Customers, Contacts and Contracts in yourbusiness plan.
  • Get started with your business.
  • Do the installation.
  • Get a solid customer base.
  • Develop a website.
  • WindTechnicians

    Kyong Lombilla

    Cable Television InstallerCable TelevisionInstallerCable TelevisionInstaller

    Yerobe Ameijenda

    Don’t Miss: Do I Qualify For The Solar Tax Credit

    How Much Does One Solar Panel Cost

    You can go to a website that sells solar panels for the DIY crowd, such as GoGreenSolar.com.

    Right now, theyâre selling a 310 watt panel from a budget manufacturer for $227, which works out to $0.73/watt.

    At the premium end, theyâre selling a 335 watt LG NeON 2 panel for $415, or $1.24/watt.

    In other words, you can expect one solar panel to cost a few hundred bucks, with a wide range in price between premium and budget manufacturers.

    Does it make sense to pay a lot more for a high end panel? Sometimes. While the cost of the panel can be a lot higher, you will usually get a better warranty that sometimes includes the labor cost for replacement. In addition, a premium panel with higher efficiency means that you need fewer supporting components such as racking, wiring, and microinverters.

    Peace Of Mind For Years To Come

    Sunruns solar leases and PPAs spare you the high upfront costs of a home solar system. We offer you professional installation, maintenance, monitoring, along with insurance during the length of your contract. And if you sell your home, we guarantee a seamless agreement transfer for the new buyer/owner of the property.

    Installing solar panels on your roof also helps the environment by reducing your carbon footprint.11 The environmental benefits, combined with the financial returns, make solar a smart choice.

    If youre considering a lease or PPA plan to get your new residential solar system, we recommend using Sunruns solar cost app or request your complimentary quote today.

    Don’t Miss: Where Are Sunpower Solar Panels Made

    Job Prospects For Solar Photovoltaic Installers

    About 2,300 openings for solar photovoltaic installers are projected each year, on average, over the decade.

    Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

    Despite fast growth, this occupation is small and has limited employment therefore, strong competition for jobs is expected. Job candidates who complete a course in photovoltaic systems at a community college or technical school should have the best opportunities. Those who enter apprenticeships also are expected to have very good job opportunities. Candidates with experience in construction occupations, such as laborers, roofers, and carpenters, should have better job opportunities than those without construction experience.

    Employment projections data for Solar Photovoltaic Installers, 2019-29

    Occupational Title

    Education For Solar Photovoltaic Installers

    âFree solar panelsâ allow you to have a solar power system ...

    Most employers require PV installers to have a high school diploma. Some PV installers take courses at local community colleges or trade schools to learn about solar panel installation. Courses range from basic safety and PV knowledge to system design. Although course lengths vary by state and locality, most usually last a few days to several months.

    Some candidates may enter the field by taking online training courses. This option is particularly useful for candidates with prior construction experience, such as former electricians.

    Also Check: Do Solar Pool Covers Heat The Water

    Popular Articles
    Related news