Solar PV Installer
Install solar photovoltaic panels on rooftops and ground-mount systems, helping homes and businesses generate their own renewable electricity.
High
Moderate
2–4 years via electrical apprenticeship then solar-specific training; or upskilling from existing electrical qualification
Level 3 Electrical + 18th Edition Wiring Regs + MCS certification; NICEIC or NAPIT registration
typical
What you do
Solar PV installers fit photovoltaic panels to domestic and commercial rooftops, wire them into inverters and battery storage systems, and connect to the electrical supply. The role involves roof surveys and structural assessments, mounting rail systems, positioning and securing panels, running DC cabling, installing inverters, and commissioning the system. Electrical competence is essential — most installers hold the 18th Edition Wiring Regulations qualification and are registered with NICEIC or NAPIT. MCS certification is required for installations that access the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) tariff. The sector covers domestic rooftop arrays, commercial roof and ground-mount installations, and increasingly battery storage integration. Progression leads to system design, project management, or running an MCS-accredited solar business.
Why this career is resilient
Solar PV is the UK's fastest-growing renewable energy technology, with domestic installations more than doubling since 2022. Rising energy costs, the Smart Export Guarantee, and net zero targets all drive sustained demand. MCS and NICEIC/NAPIT registration create regulated barriers to entry that protect qualified installers. Every installation requires physical rooftop work, structural assessment, and electrical connection — none of which can be performed remotely or automated. The growing market for battery storage and EV charger integration alongside solar panels further expands the work available.
A typical day
Morning begins with a van check and travel to a domestic installation. Set up scaffolding access, then mount aluminium rail systems to the roof battens. Position and clamp panels, run DC cabling down to the inverter location inside the property. Afternoon spent wiring the inverter, connecting to the consumer unit, installing generation meter, and commissioning the system. Final step is a handover with the customer explaining monitoring and expected output.
Routes in
Apprenticeship
Earn while you learn: work with an employer and study part-time, leading to a nationally recognised qualification. Typically funded by the government and your employer.
Full-time college course
Study full-time at a further education college, usually for 1–2 years. You will need to fund yourself or apply for a student loan (available for Level 4+ courses).
Employer-funded training
Some employers — particularly the NHS, emergency services, and larger care providers — run their own funded training programmes. You apply for a job and train as you work.
Pay and costs
Earning potential: Employed solar installers earn £28,000–£40,000. Experienced MCS-certified installers earn £38,000–£50,000. Self-employed installers with their own MCS accreditation can earn £50,000–£70,000+ in busy periods.
Training costs: Apprenticeship: no upfront cost. 18th Edition qualification: £300–£500. Solar PV design and installation course: £1,500–£2,500. MCS certification (company-level): £1,500–£2,500 plus annual fees. NICEIC registration: approximately £800–£1,200 per year.