Solar Photovoltaic Systems Introduction & Installation Microcredential

Explore clean energy systems, learn how solar PV works, and put your knowledge into practice through hands-on installation training.

A person installing solar panels on the roof

Program at a glance

Credential

Microcredential Microcredentials are short, targeted programs that focus on specific skills needed by employers or communities. They are often industry-recognized and can help you enter the workforce quickly or continue your education.

Delivery mode

Blended Blended

Time commitment

Part-time You take fewer courses at once and progress more slowly. This option offers more flexibility for work or personal commitments.

Duration

1 month 26 days

Program codes

  • Code: MCSPS

Cost

Domestic students $1,786.66 total program cost Domestic students: $1,787 total program cost

Location

  • Penticton Full program offered in Penticton

Available for

  • Domestic students

Program features

TBD

Program overview

About the program

Solar power is creating new opportunities across the electrical, construction and renewable energy sectors. This microcredential gives you a practical introduction to solar photovoltaic systems, from understanding clean energy technologies to installing a working PV system.

Complete three courses covering clean energy technologies, solar PV systems and system installation. You can take one course or complete all three, making this a flexible way to add renewable energy skills to your existing experience or explore a new career direction.

What you'll learn

By the end of the microcredential, you will be able to:

  • Explain key clean energy and solar PV concepts.
  • Identify the major components of a solar photovoltaic system.
  • Apply basic principles used in solar PV system installation.
  • Use appropriate tools and equipment for solar installation work.
  • Complete basic PV installation tasks safely and effectively.
  • Identify opportunities to apply solar technology in residential and commercial settings.
Skills you'll learn
  • Solar PV system fundamentals
  • Solar panel installation
  • Clean energy technologies
  • PV system components
  • Installation planning
  • Electrical and mechanical installation basics
  • Workplace safety
  • Troubleshooting fundamentals
Tools you'll learn
  • Solar photovoltaic panels
  • PV mounting systems
  • Solar installation tools
  • Electrical testing equipment
  • Solar system components
  • Installation and safety equipment

Work-integrated learning

The program includes hands-on solar PV system installation experience, giving you the opportunity to apply classroom concepts while working with actual solar installation equipment and systems.

DayDateCourse
MondayOctober 5SOL-RENW 100
WednesdayOctober 7SOL-RENW 100
WednesdayOctober 14SOL 100
FridayOctober 16SOL 100
MondayOctober 19SOL 100
WednesdayOctober 21SOL 110
SaturdayOctober 24SOL 110
MondayOctober 26SOL 110
WednesdayOctober 28SOL 110
SaturdayOctober 31SOL 110

The textbook list above was current at the time it was posted and may be used for initial planning purposes. Please check back with the bookstore 2 weeks before your program starts under Current Book List for a final, updated list of book titles and prices, and to order!

Textbooks available online only at OC Campus Store. If you have any questions, call 250-862-5638 or email campusstores@okanagan.bc.ca.

It takes approximately two to three business days to fill the online orders, please be sure to purchase the necessary items prior to the 1st day of class.

Residential and commercial use of solar photovoltaic panels is vital for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, enhancing energy independence, and improving power grid resilience. There has been significant growth in demand for skills related to installation and use of solar technologies, corresponding with the growth in the solar industry.

The Solar Photovoltaic Systems Introduction & Installation Microcredential program offers a series of three courses: -RENW 100 Introduction to Clean Energy Technology; -SOLA 100 Introduction to Solar Photovoltaic Systems; -SOLA 110 Solar Photovoltaic System Installation.  Take one or all three; for Electricians, building trades persons, Architects, Designers & Homeowners wanting an introduction to green energy; understand Solar Photovoltaic systems, and in course 3, gain skills & experience installing the system. Completion of this microcredential program is a prerequisite for taking the microcredential program: Solar Photovoltaic Systems for Professionals.

Tuition and fees

Admission and program requirements

No admission requirements for this program.

However this is a series of courses that must be taken sequentially.

ie:

RENW100

SOLA100

SOLA110


None

Start/End dates
Location
Delivery mode
Application status
Oct. 05, 2026 - Oct. 31, 2026
Penticton
(Penticton Campus)
Blended
Open

Program details

Complete All of the following:
RENW 100 - Introduction to Clean Energy Technologies
SOLA 100 - Introduction to Solar Photovoltaic Systems
SOLA 110 - Solar Photovoltaic System Installation