Victoria
Grid connect – design only course

Course information

NECA Course ID
NECGDCD001
Course Name
Grid connected photovoltaic (PV) systems design-only
Duration
This is a self-paced online course to be completed within 3 months after enrolment. An extension can be requested.
Mode of Study
Online and self-paced. Enrol and start today
Fees
$1,390 per person (GST free)
Next Intake
01/01/2026 to 31/12/2026 - see below for more dates

Course information

Training tomorrow’s solar energy experts today

Australia’s demand for renewable energy is anticipated to grow exponentially as we head toward net zero energy targets.

If the technical and planning aspects of solar energy systems are your area of interest, this ‘design-only’ course will give you the knowledge you need to specialise without having to learn installation procedures.

This course is primarily designed for non-electricians, engineers, and those seeking a career in the renewables industry who wish to learn how to design grid-connected photovoltaic systems.

As a 100% online self-paced training course, you can study at a time that’s convenient for you.

Two males install solar panels in classroom

Course description

A course designed for you to learn when it suits you best.

For this self-paced Grid Connect design-only online training course, students have access to the NECA E&C Learning Management System (LMS) for up to 3 months* upon enrolment and commencement of training.  This course is delivered online at the students’ own pace, and is nominally 90 hours of training, including the online assessments and design task, but students may take more or less time to complete the course.

Via the NECA E&C LMS, students, will have access to: 

  • Theory learning and exercises 
  • Group discussion, individual tasks
  • One-on-one mentoring as needed
  • Assessments; to be completed in the LMS 

This is a short course for professional development and accreditation purpose

*Additional access can be requested. 

Female electrical apprentice wearing hi vis workwear and NECA Education and Careers tests using multimeter inside a control panel

Course details

For the nationally recognised training pathway, successful completion will result in the award of a Statement of Attainment in the following Units of Competency.

  • UEERE0051 – Apply electrical principles to renewable energy design
  • UEERE0054 – Conduct site survey for grid-connected photovoltaic and battery storage systems
  • UEERE0061 – Design grid-connected photovoltaic power supply systems

Students who receive a Statement of Attainment will be eligible to apply for SAA accreditation.
The SAA has information on their website indicating their requirements to apply for Accreditation.

For the non-nationally recognised training pathway, successful completion will result in the award of a Certificate of Completion. This pathway is not eligible for SAA accreditation.

Course dates

Course and Location Date Availability
Grid connected photovoltaic (GCPV) systems design-only
Online
01/01/2026 to 31/12/2026 Register now
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Additional requirements and Fees

Students will receive an online e-Book available to view in our online training website, and can choose to get an additional printed copy of the publication Grid-Connected PV Systems Design and Installation 9th Edition as part of enrolment. If a student wants a printed hard copy, they must pay an additional fee for printing and shipping the textbook. Students are responsible for obtaining current copies of the following Australian Standards, available for purchase from the SAI Global website or Techstreet website, and also available from some libraries, institutions and industry associations:

  • AS/NZS 5033 – Photovoltaic arrays
  • AS/NZS 4777.1 – Grid connection of energy systems via inverters
  • AS/NZS 3000 – Wiring rules
  • AS/NZS 3008.1.1 – Selection of cables Part 1.1

Students will also require the following:

  • Computer with a reliable Internet connection
  • Scientific calculator
  • Email account, checked regularly

Refer to the Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) Policy.

Fees and payments

The course fee is $1,390 per person (GST free).

For company or group bookings please contact us for a quote.

The Guide to Fees & Payments can be found here.