Renewable Energy Installation Assistant - Photovoltaic Certificate

This one-year, 12-course certificate program prepares and trains students for careers in the growing field of photovoltaic panel (also known as solar panel) installation.

This program will provide students with a background in theory and practice, including laboratory work and field experiences.

Learning from academic, industry, and community experts as well as Indigenous Elders, students will learn how renewable energy technology and Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) are vital in balancing traditional values and the needs of industry and communities in the development of green energy.

Graduates of the program will possess the skills necessary to meet the growing demand for experts in the renewable energy sector. They will gain knowledge in such areas as: 

• photovoltaic systems and components
• project analysis
• energy storage
• the economics of renewable energy and energy policies
• regulations
• audits 

Graduates will help to meet the labour needs of Alberta's (and Canada's) expanding green energy economy, particularly within First Nation communities.

Program Requirements

• All applicants must complete a competency text in Math and English.
• Applicants are required to have an Alberta High School Diploma or equivalent, including English 20-2 or higher, Mathematics 20-2 or higher, and Science 10 or higher, or equivalent courses, with grades of 65% or higher, for admission to the program. 
• University and college course credits may be accepted as equivalent to a high school diploma.
• Applicants may also enter through Mature Student Status if they are over age 21 and successfully complete a Skills Appraisal Test in Math and English.
• Applicants may also enter with special permission from the Department Head, Science & Technology, but may be required to take up to an additional nine (9) credits or preparation courses in mathematics, communication, and/or the sciences.

Courses offered in the Renewable Energy Installation Assistant - Photovoltaic Program:

• Introduction to Cree Language and Culture
• Cree Language and Culture II
• Intermediate Cree
• Introduction to Stoney Language and Culture
• Intermediate Stoney
• Native Social Structures
• Cultural & Env'tal Impact Assessment
• Photovoltaic Cells: An Introduction
• Introduction to Photovoltaic Systems
• Occupational Health & Safety
• Project Analysis
• Photovoltaic Microgeneration
• Economics of Renewable Energy
• Photovoltaic Energy Storage
• Introduction to Energy Audits
• Energy Law: Understanding Climate Change Politics and Policy
• Practicum Placement