Solar energy is perhaps one of the most popular green jobs in the world today. It’s what most people think about when they think about sustainability or the global effort to save the planet.
However, there’s more to solar power than just installing the panels needed to harness the sun’s energy.
As we continue our series highlighting the different sectors and green jobs available, we hone in on the solar energy sector in this article.
Our mission is to help connect jobseekers with green jobs, and this series will help to showcase the many different types of opportunities available.
What is Solar Energy?
Solar energy is the most well-known form of renewable energy. It’s just what it sounds like—technology that allows us humans to harness the incredible power of direct sunlight and convert it into a form of energy that we can use, such as electricity or heat.
Because the sun is one of the Earth’s natural resources, like the oceans or the wind, and because it is limitless, solar energy is renewable. Jobs related to using solar energy are considered part of the green economy.
What Kind of Jobs Exist in Solar Energy?
Solar panel installation is easily the most popular occupation in the solar power industry. The enormous panels that need to be installed on buildings or large masses for solar to work require skilled professionals.
However, there are also a host of other jobs necessary behind the scenes, leading up to the point of installation and even after.
There are numerous jobs related to solar energy that don’t involve standing under the sun at all.
What Are Some of the Most Popular Solar Energy Jobs?
Some of the most popular green jobs in solar power include:
- PV Electricians: Installation and maintenance of photovoltaic (PV) solar panels.
- Project Developers/Managers: Supervision of planning and implementation of solar energy projects.
- Equipment Manufacturers: Manufacture of PV panels and other equipment related to solar energy.
- Sales Representatives: Assessment of solar energy needs, distribution/sale of solar technology and equipment for systems for commercial, government, and residential use.
- Solar Energy Consultants: Analysis, evaluation, and guidance on solar power integration and implementation.
- Researchers/Scientists: Exploration of new solar power development, technologies, and applications.
How to Get a Job in Solar Energy?
With the many varied types of jobs available in the solar power sector, the requirements vary significantly. The good news is that transferable skills from other industries can also work well in this field.
If you want an entry-level position such as in sales, you may only need a certification and a certain amount of training. If you’re coming from the oil and gas sector, you may be able to transition to solar panel installation without much difficulty.
Check out our other Green Jobs Feature Series articles:
- Green Jobs Feature Series: Agritech
- Green Jobs Feature Series: Marine Science
- Green Jobs Feature Series: Waste Management & Recycling
Discover the latest green job opportunities in the UK at EcoCareers.