Photovoltaic (Solar) Energy

Photovoltaic (PV) installation is one of the fastest growing job sectors. The number of available jobs is expected to increase by more than 22% nationwide.

CNM Ingenuity’s fast-track solar classes are designed for companies desiring to upskill their employees. A variety of classes are available for employees at every career stage, from just starting out, to those with decades of experience under their hats. These classes are designed to complement on-the-job training that employees receive with theory and context. Classes can be customized to fit the needs of individual employers. These classes are not available as open enrollment for individuals at this time.

Solar Electric Basics

Solar Electric Basics is a twenty-hour introduction to the core fundamentals related to solar energy. This all-online course is intended for people interested in being involved in the solar industry, for people who are just launching new careers in the solar industry, as well as people wanting to explore the core fundamentals of solar energy, photovoltaic principles. 

There are many work opportunities where solar energy fundamental knowledge would be beneficial to the position. Photovoltaic knowledge is useful in construction trades, electrical trades, engineering, code enforcement, firefighting, city planning, manufacturing, energy production and distribution, energy efficiency, real estate, and more. 

This is an online course. You will learn the fundamentals of photovoltaic (PV) systems and installation best practices.

Solar NABCEP Associate Exam Prep

The North American Board of Energy Practitioners’ (NABCEP) Photovoltaic Associate credential is widely regarded as qualifying individuals to design, sell, install, or maintain systems in a supervised capacity. This sixty-hour, all-online course fulfills the eligibility requirements to take the exam by introducing you to the fundamentals associated with photovoltaic systems.

Topics cover PV market analysis, the solar resource, electrical PV principles, solar module fundamentals, system components, types of systems, site assessment, system applications, energy production analysis, and best practice code compliant practices including mounting, wiring, and interconnecting systems to the utility.

*The Photovoltaic Associate exam is administered by CNMI’s Industry Testing Center. Participants who wish to take the exam will receive more information from the instructor. The exam fee is not included in the price of the course.

This course is eligible for credit for prior learning towards a certificate or degree from CNM in the Electrical Trades.

Solar (PV) & the National Electric Code

Solar (PV) & the National Electric Code is a comprehensive course on the electrical requirements for photovoltaic system installations with and without battery systems.

Topics include the major sections of the National Electric Code (NEC) that relate to PV installations including General Requirements, Wiring and Protection, Wiring Methods and Equipment Use, PV Equipment Special Conditions, and Utility Interconnection Special Conditions.

Anyone involved with photovoltaics or seeking a career in photovoltaics will benefit from this course. This course meets some NABCEP CEU requirements and is a study course for a NABCEP Photovoltaic System certification exam. This is an online class.

Funding is Available

Funding to participate in our programs is available through multiple partners and sources.

Learner Resources

Learner Guidelines, Payment, Refund Policy, download a certificate, or transfer credits?

Further Studies

CNM's Electrical Trades program teaches electrical circuitry, troubleshooting, local and national electrical codes, and OSHA compliance safety training. Earn an Associate of Applied Science or certificate and pursue work as a Solar Photovoltaic Installer, Electrician, and more.

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Scheduled Maintenance

CNM Ingenuity will be performing scheduled maintenance on Saturday, January 20 from 8 p.m. – 11 p.m. Students will not be able to submit or modify any forms during this time. We appreciate your patience and understanding. Please contact us with any questions.