Solar Technician Programs in Atlanta, Georgia

Getting a Solar Technician Degree in Atlanta, Georgia

As the demand for clean energy rises across the United States, Georgia has positioned itself as a leader in solar energy growth and job creation. For individuals in Atlanta interested in launching a career as a Solar Technician, the region offers a robust network of educational pathways, professional certifications, and employment opportunities. A Solar Technician—also known as a solar panel installer, photovoltaic installer, or solar energy technician—is responsible for installing, maintaining, and troubleshooting solar photovoltaic (PV) systems. These professionals play a vital role in Georgia’s renewable energy sector by ensuring that solar panels function efficiently and safely across residential, commercial, and utility-scale projects.

Aspiring Solar Technicians in Atlanta can pursue several educational routes, including certificate programs at technical colleges, associate degrees, and specialized training courses. Many programs emphasize hands-on learning, safety standards, and preparation for national certifications such as the NABCEP (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners) credential. Whether you are a recent high school graduate, a career changer, or a professional seeking advancement, Atlanta’s educational landscape makes it possible to gain the skills needed to succeed in the solar industry.

About Atlanta, Georgia

Atlanta, the capital and largest city in Georgia, serves as a dynamic center for business, education, and technological innovation. Home to iconic neighborhoods such as Midtown, Buckhead, and Old Fourth Ward, the city blends southern charm with a strong commitment to sustainability and clean energy. Atlanta also boasts a diverse economy and is recognized for its leadership in renewable energy policy and economic development. For more information about the city and its services, visit the official City of Atlanta website.

Solar Technician Training Programs in Atlanta, Georgia

Atlanta and the surrounding region offer a range of Solar Technician programs, from technical college certificates to comprehensive training through private providers. Below are current options for those seeking solar technician education near Atlanta:

1. Georgia Piedmont Technical College – Solar Panel Installer Training
Located in DeKalb County, just east of Atlanta, Georgia Piedmont Technical College offers an intermediate-level Solar Panel Installer Training course. This 40-hour online program builds on foundational solar energy concepts and provides hands-on training in solar panel installation, wiring, circuits, and system integration. The curriculum includes safety protocols, system design, and troubleshooting, preparing students for entry-level positions and industry certifications. Learn more at the Georgia Piedmont Technical College Solar Panel Installer course page.

2. Gwinnett Technical College – NABCEP Certification: PV Installation Professional
Situated northeast of Atlanta in Lawrenceville, Gwinnett Technical College provides a comprehensive NABCEP Certification training program for aspiring photovoltaic installers. The curriculum includes 40 hours of advanced installation and design, 18 hours of general solar energy training, and 10 hours of OSHA Construction Safety. This program is designed to meet the prerequisites for the NABCEP PV Installation Professional exam and covers system design, component integration, and safety standards. Visit the Gwinnett Technical College NABCEP Certification page for details.

3. Imagine Solar – Solar PV Installer Training
Imagine Solar, with a training location in Atlanta, offers accelerated programs focused on photovoltaic systems installation, design, and troubleshooting. The school provides NABCEP exam preparation and flexible course schedules for working adults. Tuition ranges from $695 to $1,490, making it an accessible option for many. More information can be found on the Imagine Solar website.

If you are willing to travel, additional programs are available in Savannah, Albany, Americus, and Gainesville, Georgia—typically within a few hours’ drive from Atlanta—at institutions such as Savannah Technical College, Albany Technical College, South Georgia Technical College, and Lanier Technical College. These schools also offer IREC-accredited solar technician and photovoltaic installation programs.

Solar Energy Employment Opportunities in Atlanta

Atlanta is home to a thriving solar industry, with numerous companies offering employment opportunities for Solar Technicians, solar panel installers, and renewable energy professionals. Major employers in the Atlanta area include:

Cherry Street Energy
Headquartered in Atlanta, Cherry Street Energy is a leading provider of commercial solar installations across Georgia. The company partners with local governments and businesses to deploy large-scale solar projects and routinely hires solar installers and crew leads. Explore current openings at the Cherry Street Energy Careers page.

KR Solar
KR Solar specializes in residential and commercial solar system installation and maintenance. Based in Atlanta, the company actively recruits for solar installer positions as well as project management and sales roles. Visit their official website for employment information.

Georgia Power
As the state’s largest utility, Georgia Power leads major solar procurement and grid-scale renewable energy projects. The company’s sustainability initiatives and ongoing investments in solar infrastructure provide a range of career opportunities for certified Solar Technicians and those with advanced technical skills.

These organizations, along with other solar contractors and engineering firms, are located throughout key Atlanta neighborhoods and the broader metro area, offering pathways for both entry-level and experienced technicians.

Prerequisites for Solar Technician Programs

Admission requirements for Solar Technician training programs in Atlanta typically include:

  • A high school diploma or GED
  • Minimum age of 18 years
  • Basic proficiency in mathematics and science (some programs may require placement tests in arithmetic, reading comprehension, and writing)
  • Physical ability to perform hands-on installation work
  • In some cases, passing an entrance exam or background check

Additionally, most programs emphasize safety training and may require completion of OSHA 10-Hour Construction certification as part of the curriculum.

Solar Technician Certification Options

Earning professional certification can significantly enhance your qualifications and career prospects as a Solar Technician. The industry’s most respected credential is the NABCEP (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners) certification. NABCEP Board Certifications are recognized nationwide and validate your expertise in PV system design, installation, and maintenance.

To qualify for NABCEP certification, candidates typically need:

  • Formal training from an IREC-accredited provider
  • Documented field experience (hours vary by certification level)
  • OSHA 10-Hour Construction card
  • Successful completion of the NABCEP exam

Other certification options include the ETA (Electronics Technicians Association) Photovoltaic Installer certification and the NCCER (National Center for Construction Education and Research) Solar Photovoltaic System Installer credential. Certification not only opens doors to more advanced roles but also enables higher earning potential and greater job mobility.

Get Started Today

Atlanta’s solar industry is expanding rapidly, and the need for certified Solar Technicians has never been greater. Whether you are exploring a new career or seeking advancement in the renewable energy field, local training programs and certification pathways provide the foundation for long-term success. Take the first step by contacting a school, exploring course options, and beginning your journey toward a rewarding career in solar energy today.

For more information about the national job outlook for Solar Photovoltaic Installers, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics Solar Photovoltaic Installers page.