Course information
- NECA Course ID
- NECGDC007
- Course Name
- Design and install grid connected photovoltaic (PV) systems Self-guided online (Tasmania)
- Duration
- 4 weeks in total - 3 weeks self-paced, teacher-supported online learning, and 3 days in-person teacher-led learning.
- Mode of Study
- A combination of self-guided online, and in-person teacher-led learning
- Fees
- $2340 per person
- Next Intake
- No date - Please check back again soon for next course date.
Powering the future
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.
Consumers are seeking environmentally friendly power solutions for commercial and domestic applications and/or charging electric vehicles (EV) and the demand for alternative energy systems such as solar energy to support homes and businesses is growing every day. This means more electricians and workers skilled in the design and installation of grid-connected photovoltaic systems are needed.
Our industry has responded to the changing needs of renewable energy by updating the training packages for delivered renewable energy workers, and we have released our new blended learning grid connect course. This course has been designed by experienced solar installers who are SAA accredited and have worked with the Clean Energy Council.
NECA E&C’s grid connect course will put you and your business on the front foot and give you the skills and knowledge to become a qualified solar photovoltaic (PV) designer and installer.
Course description
This grid connect course combines online self-paced learning and in-person practical training, over 4 weeks, allowing you to study when it suits you best.
- The online section takes approximately 3 weeks to complete and includes learning tasks and assessments – 2 x site survey reports and 2 x design tasks. This is done through the NECA E&C learning management system (LMS), and is supported by two evening classes per week, facilitated by the course teacher.
- The in-person training is delivered in week 4. Three (3) consecutive days of in-person (teacher delivered classes) are scheduled. This includes a half day for finalisation of any incomplete online theory assessments, and two and a half days to complete practical installation assessments under teacher observation.
What is included?
On successful completion of your training, you will be set to apply for your accreditation with the new Solar Accreditation Australia (SAA) body for GCPV Design and Installation. The course will guide you through the following topics:
Site surveying
Solar resource
PV and PCE electrics & engineering
Designing and installing for performance
Enrol now for our Grid Connect course that gives you flexibility
The Design and install grid-connected PV systems course will be delivered using a combination of online and in-person training, over 4 weeks.
- You need to allow approximately 3 weeks to complete the self-paced online segment. To help you progress, there will be two evening classes per week, facilitated by the course teacher to allow you to ask questions, and progress through the online studies.
- Our course teacher will monitor student progress through the NECA E&C Learning Management System to provide support and to ensure course progression.
- The in-person practical training is 3 days, teacher-led, in the classroom.
Course details
Our trainer, Robbie Nichols shares the benefits of his years of solar experience with you during the blended learning course.
Robbie has over 25 years of experience working with clients throughout the Geelong and regional areas, and decided to complete qualifications as a trainer with NECA E&C in 2024 to deliver the blended learning Grid Connect course.
This course will provide you with the necessary qualifications to apply for accreditation from Solar Accreditation Australia for the Grid Connect PV Systems accreditation. Please check with SAA if anything else is required for your accreditation.
This course includes the following unit competencies:
- UEERE0054 – Conduct site survey for grid-connected photovoltaic and battery storage systems
- UEERE0061 – Design grid-connected photovoltaic power supply systems
- UEERE0080 – Install photovoltaic power conversion equipment to grid
- UEERE0081 – Install photovoltaic systems to power conversion equipment
This covers design briefs, incorporating schemes for protecting persons and property from dangers of system malfunction, ensuring other safety and performance standards and functional requirements are met and documenting design calculations and criteria.
The skills and knowledge required to complete the installation, adjustment and set-up of photovoltaic (PV) power systems and connecting to a supply grid inverter. It encompasses working safely and to installation standards, matching components with that specified for a given location, placing and securing system components accurately, making required circuit connections and completing the necessary installation documentation.
This course is intended to allow learners to find solutions to predictable problems in photovoltaic energy apparatus and systems operated at extra-low and low voltage.
For more information on how to apply for your accreditation and the costs associated, check out Solar Accreditation Australia.
Applicants must hold a current electrical licence issued in an Australian State or Territory, and this will ensure they meet pre-requisite unit requirements for UEEEL0012 (UEERE0081) and UEEEL0039 (UEERE0061).
As applicants are existing workers who have completed a Certificate III level qualification, an LLN Assessment will be offered during their pre-training review, but it is not mandatory to complete one as the relevant Certificate III qualification indicates students hold the required level of LLN to successfully undertake this course.
Due to the online nature of the course, applicants need the necessary digital literacy skills to allow them to participate fully and successfully.
Student resources include:
- Grid Connect Learner Companion Guide (LCG)
- Grid Connect Classroom Assessment Workbook
- Textbook: Grid-Connected PV Systems Design & Installation
- CEC – Advice on labelling
Access to current industry standards, including:
- AS/NZS 3000:2018 Wiring Rules
- AS / NZS 5033:2021 Installation and safety requirements for photovoltaic (PV) arrays
- AS/NZS 4777.1:2024, Grid connection of energy systems via inverter – installation requirements
- AS/NZS 1170.2:2021 Structural design actions, Part 2: Wind actions
- AS/NZS 3008.1:2017 Electrical installations – selection of cables, Part 1.1: Cables for alternating voltages up to and including 0.6/1 kV (typical Australian installation conditions)
For the 3-day in-person training element, students will need to bring their own PPE, including:
- Steel-capped boots
- Eye protection
- Gloves
Online Learning
Due to the online nature of the course platform, students will require access to a computer and the Internet to complete the course. Students will also need a scientific calculator, and access to either a Microsoft Excel or OpenOffice Calc (freeware) spreadsheet program is recommended.
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This industry short course covers competencies fulfilling the requirements of Solar Accreditation Australia (SAA) for an electrician to become accredited in the design and installation of grid-connected photovoltaic systems
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