A Behind-the-Scenes Look at the Solar and Energy Storage Industry
The Beginnings
In 2017, the solar industry was, more or less, nowhere to be found. At least in my opinion, not as a homeowner, but as someone interested in gaining employment in the industry. After several years of working in the environmental construction industry, I began to see my passion and interest dwindling. I took what I knew about sustainability and began a pursuit toward solar certification.
Training for the Solar Industry
At the time, not many resources were available to even begin the process. I found an outfit that was hosting a one-week crash course that provided the student with a hands-on and literature-based curriculum that promised to prepare you for the NABCEP PV ASSOCIATES certification. I decided it was time to put pen to paper and set a direction for myself.
The program taught me the fundamentals of solar construction, including, but not limited to, PV application, sales and economics, design, installation, operations, and maintenance. I immersed myself in education and took a special interest in the installation, operation, and maintenance of everything solar.
Tough Starts
After passing the NABCEP Associates exam, I was inspired and hopeful to begin my career in the solar industry. However, almost zero companies in the region offered solar panel installation services, let alone a career opportunity. My search broadened to more serviceable states. My eyes were set on Colorado. Boasting 300 days of sunshine and a “perfect” latitude for solar installations, I decided it was not only a prime location for work but also a beautiful place to call home.
The Move into Solar
I was hired by a bustling solar company for $16.50 an hour to be a grunt on the rooftop. But I remained inspired and humble. In the first year, I was taught solar basics and gained important experience to help advance my career. In the beginning, solar was as basic as it could get: solar string inverters with 300 Watt panels, fit as many as you can on the roof. It was nothing short of hard work. Long days on hot roofs, thousands of bottles of silicone, metal flashing, and questionable detachments and resets. My hands were busted, and clothes were tattered (some things don’t change).
Forward Momentum
By this time, in 2020, the solar industry was changing at an ever-constant and unprecedented pace. In Colorado especially, it seemed as if the entire state was going solar. There was a lot of excitement surrounding the industry, and technology was improving at a fast clip. I was introduced to grid-tied micro-grid systems and the beneficial efficiencies provided by solar.
A grid-tied micro-grid system refers to an electrical central network, powered by photovoltaic power, that works with the utility power to backfeed the home or business electrical system. The solar power is converted to usable AC energy through micro-inverters below the solar panels, creating a clean energy network. The excess power is sent back to the grid to the utility company, providing the customer with solar credits in the form of net metering. Teamed with the old 30% federal tax incentive for going green, the solar industry was a great investment.
Fast Tracking
The industry was in motion, booming and constantly evolving with technology. In 2023, I began an electrical apprenticeship with Sandbox+ Solar. My experience and knowledge were developing with an interconnection skill set.
New and Improved Technologies
Over the past three years, the industry has grown tremendously, integrating “island-mode” technologies like whole-home battery backup and critical load backup systems. With the integration of these technologies alongside solar panels, we have been able to offer customers a reliable electrical system that offers flexibility and resilience when the utility power shuts down or during peak hours. The work is very technical, involving complex electrical and communication wiring, detailed commissioning, and homeowner engagement.
Passion for Self-Sufficiency
As a newly licensed Journeyman Electrician, the changes to solar and whole-home backup have been happily welcomed. The technology is challenging yet rewarding. One of the best parts of my job is installing a beautifully wired whole home backup system and showing it to the customer. It brings me great satisfaction to present the finished product to each and every customer. Showing clients the capabilities of being self-sufficient and in charge of their own clean power is nothing short of rewarding.
Powering Forward
Invest in Solar Power Now
In our current political and economic situation, it can be difficult to justify home upgrades. However, as we know, these situations do, in fact, ebb and flow (ahh the inevitable solar coaster). Our solar installers and technicians remain positive in their resolve to carry on the trade and continue to be flexible with the challenges that we all face. The opportunity for our customers to achieve energy efficiency is still wider open than ever. An investment in solar energy systems means you will start saving money. The right way, and right away. Now
Reach Out to Sandbox+ Solar Today
The solar and energy storage industry is prime right now for consumers. Regardless of whether you have a 700-square-foot home or a 7,000-square-foot mansion, going solar is always going to be the right choice. Over the years, it has adapted to massive fluctuations, and it still always lands on its feet.
