Level 2 NVQ Installation of Photovoltaic / Solar Panels – Course Overview

Our Level 2 NVQ in Installation of Photovoltaic / PV / Solar Panels is designed for those seeking to specialise in the installation of solar panels.

It will equip you with the skills to safely and efficiently install solar power systems in various settings.

Key Highlights of this Level 2 NVQ Solar Panel Course

  • Mandatory units covering health and safety, working at heights, and communicating effectively within the workplace.
  • Solar panel installation training providing specialised knowledge and skills.
  • Graduates are eligible for the Blue CSCS card.

This qualification is designed for people who want recognised solar panel installation training through a competence-based NVQ, rather than a short classroom course.

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This Level 2 NVQ focuses on proving your ability to carry out real solar panel installation work safely, correctly, and to industry standards.

During the qualification, you’ll demonstrate practical competence in areas such as installing photovoltaic panels on live sites, preparing structures for installation, positioning and fixing panels securely, and working safely at height. You’ll also develop an understanding of photovoltaic system components, installation requirements, and the correct procedures to follow before, during, and after installation.

Rather than learning theory in isolation, this NVQ is built around the work you already do (or are working towards doing) on site, allowing you to show that you can install solar panels confidently and professionally in real working conditions.

This NVQ is designed for people who want recognised solar panel installation training through a competence-based qualification, rather than a short classroom course.

It is suitable if you are:

  • Already working in construction or renewables and involved in solar panel installations
  • Assisting with or carrying out photovoltaic installation work on site
  • Looking to formalise existing experience with a nationally recognised NVQ
  • Seeking a qualification that proves real on-site ability rather than attendance

This is not a beginner classroom course. You will need access to real installation work so your skills can be assessed in the workplace.

  • Communicating and Working with Others in the Glass and Related Working Environment: Develop essential communication skills for effective teamwork in renewable energy projects.
  • Use Access Equipment to Work at Heights: Learn to safely use ladders, scaffolds, and other height-access equipment.
  • Maintain Health and Safety in the Photovoltaic Panel Installation Working Environment: Ensure safe working practices specific to solar panel installation.
  • Confirm PV Panel Installation Requirement: Understand project requirements and specifications for accurate installations.
  • Knowledge of Photovoltaic Systems: Gain a thorough understanding of solar power systems’ components and functionality.
  • Locate, Test, Handle and Position Photovoltaic Panels Prior to Installation: Master the skills necessary for preparing and positioning solar panels for installation.
  • Understanding the Procedure to Follow After the Discovery of Materials Containing Asbestos Cement Exposed During the PV Installation Process: Be prepared to handle hazardous materials safely if encountered during installation.

Pathway 2 – Pathway Mandatory Units

Includes all Pathway 1 mandatory units plus:

  • Fix Photovoltaic Panels Onto a Non-Roof Structure: Learn specialised techniques for installing solar panels on structures other than traditional roofs.

Optional Units (Both Pathways)

  • Prepare the Structure for Photovoltaic Panel Installation – Existing Structure and New Build: Get skilled in preparing different types of structures for solar panel installation.
  • Post Photovoltaic Installation Activities: Understand the steps to finalise the solar power installation and ensure everything is fully operational.
  • Ensure the Glass Related Installation Is Completed Safely and Handed Over to the Customer: Learn customer service skills and project completion protocols.

Additional Optional Unit for Pathway 2

Use Access Equipment to Work at Heights: Optional reinforcement of skills for working at heights, beneficial for complex installations.

Many people searching for a solar panel installation course come across short training programmes that focus on classroom learning or manufacturer-specific guidance.

Short courses can be useful for awareness or product familiarisation, but they do not assess your ability to carry out real installation work on site.

An NVQ is different. This Level 2 qualification is assessed through workplace evidence and observations, meaning you are judged on how you install photovoltaic panels in real working environments. It proves competence, not just attendance, and is recognised across the UK construction industry as a reliable measure of skill.

For anyone looking to work on construction sites or progress within renewables, an NVQ provides a far stronger foundation than a short solar installation training course alone.

No prior qualifications are required to enrol in this solar PV course, making it accessible to individuals eager to enter the renewable energy sector or construction professionals looking to expand their skill set.

  • Course Length: Typically completed within 6 to 12 months, depending on the learner’s pace and availability.
  • Study Modes: Available through online learning for flexibility or in-person sessions for hands-on experience.
  • Expected Weekly Time Commitment: Generally, 8 to 12 hours per week, adjustable based on personal schedules and commitments.

This qualification is assessed through real workplace evidence, meaning your skills are demonstrated on live solar panel installation work rather than in a classroom environment.

Assessment methods include:

  • A portfolio of evidence gathered from your work
  • Written assignments to support knowledge requirements
  • Practical assessments carried out during installation tasks
  • Workplace observations by a qualified assessor

This approach ensures the qualification reflects how you work on site, not how well you perform in a test environment.

People often use the term “solar panel installation certification” to describe proof that they are qualified to install photovoltaic systems.

This Level 2 NVQ is a nationally recognised competence-based qualification that demonstrates you can install solar panels safely and correctly in real working conditions. It is widely accepted within the construction industry as evidence of professional capability and forms part of the qualification route for skilled workers on site.

While this NVQ does not replace all industry registrations or scheme memberships, it provides the recognised qualification required to demonstrate installation competence and supports eligibility for the CSCS Blue Skilled Worker Card.

This NVQ Level 2 solar panel course is recognised by the NOCN Group, GQA Qualifications, Oscar On-Site, and CITB (Construction Industry Training Board). These affiliations and accreditations ensure that this solar panel training course meets rigorous educational and professional standards and is recognised nationally.

Completing this level 2 NVQ solar PV qualification makes you eligible for the CSCS Blue Skilled Worker Card, essential for working on construction sites.

Solar panel installation is a growing part of the UK construction and renewables sector, with increasing demand for qualified installers who can work safely and to recognised standards.

In the UK, NVQs are widely used to demonstrate occupational competence, particularly for construction-based roles. This Level 2 NVQ aligns with industry expectations by assessing real installation work and confirming that skills meet recognised benchmarks.

For those working on domestic or commercial photovoltaic installations, an NVQ provides trusted, nationally recognised evidence of training and capability.

Completing this qualification provides a recognised foundation for working on solar panel installations within the UK construction industry.

Graduates may progress into roles such as Photovoltaic Installer or Renewable Energy Technician, or continue building experience across larger and more complex projects. The qualification also supports progression into higher-level NVQs and supervisory pathways for those looking to advance their career within renewables or construction management.

Start your journey in renewable energy by enrolling on our Level 2 NVQ in solar panel installation today.

Call us at 0161 706 1401 or fill in our online contact form to begin your application process or ask us any questions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Solar Panel Installation NVQs

Do I need training to install solar panels in the UK?

Most construction and renewable energy employers expect installers to hold recognised training or qualifications that prove competence. An NVQ demonstrates practical ability through on-site assessment.

What qualification do I need to install solar panels?

A Level 2 NVQ in Installation of Photovoltaic Panels is a recognised qualification that proves occupational competence for solar panel installation work.

Is an NVQ better than a solar panel installation course?

An NVQ assesses real work carried out on site, whereas many short courses focus on classroom learning. For on-site construction roles, NVQs are widely recognised as the stronger qualification.

Can I complete this NVQ without being an electrician?

Yes. This qualification focuses on photovoltaic panel installation and does not require you to be a qualified electrician, although you must have access to relevant installation work.

Does this qualification lead to a CSCS card?

Yes. Completing this Level 2 NVQ makes you eligible for the CSCS Blue Skilled Worker Card.