Solar Photovoltaic (PV) System Installation Program
Okanagan College in partnership with Colleges and Institutes Canada (CICan) and Palette Skills Inc. have developed a new pilot program, Solar Photovoltaic (PV) System Installation. Offered out of our Penticton Campus, this microcredential is a unique opportunity being offered tuition-free to persons that meet eligibility criteria; see below. Note: $200 registration fee is required, unless eligible for an equity deserving group subsidy.
This program is an excellent chance to expand your skills into one of the fastest-growing sectors in the electrical industry, while adding renewable energy expertise to your career path. Spots are limited, and we encourage you to register early to secure your place in this exciting pilot project.
For program-specific questions, contact Warren at Okanagan College, wedis@okanagan.bc.ca.
Program Details
Solar Photovoltaic Systems Introduction & Installation Microcredential
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.
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
Red seal Electricians: Can continue with the 2nd microcredential. These 2 courses cover Electrical Interconnections and Trouble Shooting & Maintenance.
Solar Photovoltaic Systems for Professionals Microcredential
Designed for red seal electrician that wants to specialize in Solar Photovoltaic Systems or augment their skill set and resume with this microcredential program. 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.
Complete All of the following:
SOLA 120 - Solar Photovoltaic System Electrical Interconnections
SOLA 116 - Solar Photovoltaic Trouble Shooting & Maintenance
Start Date: Tuesday, October 21, 2025
End Date: SOLA 110 will be completed Saturday, December 13, 2025
SOLA 116 will be completed Saturday, February 21, 2026
Schedule: Evenings and weekends, designed to accommodate your regular work commitments; 125 hours; 5 courses, hybrid delivery, online, in person
Hands-On Training: Practical installation experience with solar PV systems
Tuition-free to qualified participants.
A$200 registration fee is required, unless eligible for an equity-deserving group subsidy
Applicants must:
- Have at least 3 years of work or volunteer experience (outside of full-time/part-time studies).
- Be legally eligible to work in Canada (work permit holders must have at least 1 year remaining).
- Be mid-career workers (not new graduates).
- Commit to completing the program within 16 weeks (no later than March 1, 2026).
- Pay a $200 registration fee, unless eligible for an equity-deserving group subsidy.
Interested applicants can apply by filling in the registration form.
Those selected will be contacted by Okanagan College with further details