Solar Technician Programs in Nashville, Tennessee

Getting a Solar Technician Degree in Nashville, Tennessee

As cities across the United States embrace renewable energy, Nashville, Tennessee stands out as a regional leader in solar power expansion. For individuals interested in starting or advancing a career as a Solar Technician, Nashville offers a variety of education pathways, from short-term certificate training to associate degrees and even specialized bachelor’s programs. Solar Technicians, also known as solar panel installers, photovoltaic installers, or solar energy technicians, are responsible for installing, maintaining, and troubleshooting solar panel systems. The field blends hands-on technical work with problem-solving and sustainable energy practices.

Aspiring Solar Technicians in Nashville can choose from several educational options, including:

  • Certificate programs: These are short-term, focused training options designed to quickly prepare individuals for entry-level roles in solar installation.
  • Associate degrees: Typically two-year programs, associate degrees in related fields such as electrical engineering technology often include coursework in solar technologies.
  • Bachelor’s degrees: While less common, some institutions offer four-year degrees with solar energy coursework or specializations.

This guide explores local program options, key employers, prerequisites, certification paths, and next steps for launching a successful career as a Solar Technician in Nashville.

About Nashville, Tennessee

Nashville, the capital of Tennessee, is renowned for its rich music history, thriving tech sector, and commitment to sustainable growth. The city’s neighborhoods—such as East Nashville, The Gulch, and Germantown—offer a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial opportunities. With ongoing investments in clean energy, Nashville is an ideal location for those interested in solar technology. For more information about the city, visit the official Nashville government website.

Solar Technician Training Programs in Nashville, Tennessee

Nashville and the broader Middle Tennessee region provide several high-quality options for solar panel installer training, solar energy technician degrees, and photovoltaic installer certification. Here are three reputable local programs:

1. Goodwill Industries of Middle Tennessee — Solar Installer Training

Located in Nashville, Goodwill offers a free four-week Solar Installer training program. This 160-hour course covers solar panel mounting, system alignment, electrical integration, safety procedures, and maintenance. Participants receive hands-on instruction, transportation assistance, mentoring, and job placement support. Applicants must be at least 18 years old, hold a high school diploma or GED, and be comfortable working at heights and outdoors. This program is tailored for rapid entry into the solar workforce.

Learn more: Goodwill Solar Installer Training

2. Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) Nashville — Residential, Commercial, and Industrial Electricity (RCIE) Program

TCAT Nashville, located in the Portland area, offers an 18-month full-time program emphasizing electrical fundamentals, blueprint reading, motor controls, and solar photovoltaic system installation. The RCIE curriculum includes a dedicated solar component in its third trimester, preparing graduates for careers as electrical or solar energy technicians. Tuition and fees total approximately $5,948, with additional costs for textbooks and supplies.

Program details: TCAT Nashville RCIE Program

3. Nashville State Community College — Electrical Engineering Technology (Associate of Applied Science)

Though not exclusively focused on solar, Nashville State offers a two-year accredited associate degree in Electrical Engineering Technology. The program includes coursework relevant to solar installation and prepares students for industrial technician roles, including those in renewable energy. Tuition is approximately $10,397 for the full program, which boasts a 75% job placement rate.

More information: Nashville State Community College Electrical Engineering Technology

Nearby Options if Needed:
If you are willing to travel, nearby institutions such as Pellissippi State Community College in Knoxville (offering a Photovoltaic Technician course) and Volunteer State Community College (partnering in solar installer programs) provide additional training options within a two- to three-hour drive from Nashville.

Solar Energy Employment Opportunities in Nashville

Nashville supports a growing ecosystem of solar and renewable energy employers. Here are some of the region’s leading companies:

LightWave Solar
Headquartered in Southeast Nashville, LightWave Solar is a leading solar engineering, procurement, and construction company specializing in commercial, utility, and residential solar projects. The company frequently hires solar installers, project managers, and electricians.
Careers: LightWave Solar Careers

Be a Helping Hand Solar Equity Program
Located in North Nashville, this nonprofit offers workforce development and job placement in solar installation, especially for underserved communities. Their Solar Equity Program provides hands-on training and connects graduates to local employment opportunities.
Learn more: Be a Helping Hand Solar Equity Program

Nashville Electric Service (NES)
Serving the broader Nashville metro area, NES partners with solar installers and offers programs like NESolar Connect. Positions occasionally open for technicians, engineers, and energy efficiency professionals.
Opportunities: NES Careers

Additional solar employers in the region include GreeneTech Renewable Energy, Efficient Energy of Tennessee, and various regional contractors. These organizations offer a mix of entry-level and advanced opportunities for certified Solar Technicians and photovoltaic installers.

Prerequisites for Solar Technician Programs

Most Solar Technician training programs in Nashville have accessible entry requirements, making the field suitable for career changers and new graduates alike. Typical prerequisites include:

  • A high school diploma or GED
  • Minimum age of 18 years
  • Basic math and science proficiency
  • Willingness to work outdoors and at heights
  • Ability to pass a background check (for some programs)
  • Physical capability to lift equipment and work on rooftops

Some programs, particularly those in electrical or engineering technology, may require additional coursework in algebra, physics, or related subjects. For advanced certifications or licensing, proof of work experience and successful completion of exams may be required.

Solar Technician Certification Options

Earning professional certification can significantly enhance a Solar Technician’s career prospects. The gold standard in the industry is certification from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP).

Key NABCEP certifications include:

  • NABCEP PV Associate Credential: Entry-level certificate demonstrating knowledge of photovoltaic systems. Eligibility requires either completing a registered training program or documented work experience.
  • NABCEP PV Installation Professional Certification: Advanced certification for experienced installers, requiring OSHA safety training, verified installation experience, and successful completion of the NABCEP exam.
  • NABCEP PV Design Specialist: For those specializing in system design, this credential requires advanced coursework and project documentation.

Other respected credentials include OSHA safety training and, for those performing electrical work, state licensure such as the Limited Licensed Electrician (LLE) certificate through the Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors.

Certification benefits include:

  • Improved job prospects and earning potential
  • Demonstrated expertise and professionalism
  • Access to broader employment networks and industry partnerships

Employers often prefer, and sometimes require, NABCEP-certified candidates for solar installer and project management roles.

Get Started Today

Nashville’s booming solar industry offers dynamic career opportunities for motivated individuals. Whether you’re interested in a short-term training course, a two-year associate degree, or advanced certification, local programs can equip you with the practical and theoretical skills needed to succeed as a Solar Technician.

Take the next step by contacting a local school or training provider to learn more about enrollment options and start dates. With growing demand for solar panel installers and photovoltaic technicians, there’s never been a better time to launch your career in renewable energy.

For more information about the solar technician job outlook, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics: Solar Photovoltaic Installers.