Installations photovoltaic

Photovoltaic installations - installer A photovoltaic installation (PV installation for short) is a complete set of equipment used to generate electricity from solar energy. Regardless of the type, it includes: photovoltaic panels, voltage protection, inverter and mounting system. Their function is to capture the sun's rays and convert them into direct current. The current from the panels goes to the inverter, which converts the direct current into alternating current. It is extremely important that the installation is properly protected. Elements that have a great impact on the quality of the installation are the mounting system and also the voltage protection.

Photovoltaic installer - who is it?

A photovoltaic installer is a person who prepares, builds and starts up a solar installation. The installer can also design and report on installations made, but this possibility depends on the knowledge, experience and courses taken. It is a relatively new profession, combining the tasks of an electrician, construction worker and roofer.

What are the responsibilities?

The main duties of the photovoltaic installer include the complete installation of photovoltaic systems. Before starting work, the installer carries out preparatory work, checks and anticipates how to set up the installations so that everything is done quickly and without major complications. The installer then builds the roof or ground structures for the installation, selecting the appropriate mounting systems; runs the cables; installs the modules and inverter with protection; connects the installation to the power grid; carries out the necessary electrical measurements; and configures the inverters so that they operate at the correct parameters. Once the work is done, the installer takes care of maintenance, i.e. helps to solve any problems that may arise during the use of the photovoltaic installations.

Who can become a photovoltaic installer?

First of all, a photovoltaic fitter can only become a person who is qualified to do so. This means that a person applying for a job opportunity must, in accordance with the regulations of Polish law, have the relevant certificate entitling him to practice the profession. In order to obtain such a certificate and have the relevant entitlements, one must undergo training to become a Certified Photovoltaic System Installer. In the course of such training, during both theoretical and practical classes, the future installer acquires the knowledge necessary to perform the profession properly. After completing such a training course, the installer must pass an examination no later than 12 months and obtain a state certificate. This document has a validity of five years.The photovoltaic installer should also have an electrical qualification, as one of his duties is to carry out the electrical part of the installation. This requires the installer to be able to read electrical diagrams, run cables, connect electrical switchboards or take measurements. A familiarity with electrical issues can also be useful, as it allows the photovoltaic installation to be quickly and safely installed, commissioned and synchronised with the power grid.It is also important that the installer knows how to mount the photovoltaic installation on the roof. Roofing skills are mandatory in this case. Knowledge of roof construction allows the installation to be properly sized and correctly fitted to the roof sheathing or structure. The installer's spatial imagination and manual skills are also indispensable skills. These help to plan the structures for the panels correctly. As the installation profession involves working at great heights, the installer's ability to move safely on the roof and the absence of a fear of heights are extremely useful. Practical height training will be ideal for acquiring skills.Having a driver's licence can also prove to be an advantage, which will help with sourcing and commuting to customers. Interpersonal skills are also very important. Self-reliance and the ability to plan your time can prove useful. Also punctuality, attention to detail, and a good rapport with people are conducive to getting the job done correctly and professionally. A good installer is characterised by reliability, punctuality and accuracy, and a willingness to expand knowledge and develop continuously. The ability to work both individually and as part of a team is also a plus, as in some installations, both independence and working in cooperation with another person can prove crucial.Contraindications to the occupation are: not being able to work at heights due to a health condition; not being deprived of legal capacity and not being deprived of public rights; not being convicted by a final court judgement.

Earnings of a fitter

The earnings of an assembler cannot be precisely defined, it depends on all sorts of factors. Professional qualifications and experience play a large role. Wages also depend on the form and place of employment. It must also be taken into account that the work of a fitter is mostly seasonal. Therefore, the time of year and the current weather are equally important, as the number of jobs depends on this. Differences in pay can also be seen in terms of the seniority of the fitter. Fitters who are involved in the overall installation and planning of the panel layout, including signing documents and taking measurements, can count on a higher salary. Beginners in the field of photovoltaic installation, whose task is to carry out simple work, prepare the material or keep the work in order, will earn less. We can distinguish between two forms of employment: employed and self-employed. A person employed on a contract of employment can count on a salary of between PLN 3,500 and 5,000 gross. On the other hand, the earnings of those running their own business range from PLN 5,000 to 10,000 and above. Both forms have their advantages and disadvantages. In employment, earnings are lower, but they are constant and you do not have to worry about orders. With self-employment, you can count on a higher salary, but you have to look for and acquire customers yourself.

Is it worth becoming a photovoltaic installer?

Very often, people who want to become a photovoltaic installer and tie their future to this profession may ask themselves whether it is worth it at all. The answer is very simple. Of course it is. Today, interest in renewable energy sources is growing rapidly. Both private users and companies are increasingly opting to install panels. An installer is one of the most sought-after specialists at any given time. The work is very demanding and the installer must have a lot of physical and manual dexterity, but installers can currently expect a steady flow of orders, which allows them to earn a secure income. The work is also very interesting, as it requires the fitter to continually develop and learn about new technologies.