PV qualification requirements

[CJD]

What qualifications do you really need for PV installations and MCS accreditation?
It,s a bit like part P qualified situation, is the C&G in PV really required?

I have searched the posts but cannot find any specific answer, hope you can help me.

 

[BruceB]

The best thing is to talk to the body you are going to be registered with (eg NICEIC, NAPIT, BRE etc), because it is them you will have to convince in terms of your formal qualifications and/or experience.

I am with NAPIT. Have you had a look here?
NAPIT - Microgeneration

If you are going to be doing everything yourself, then probably an accredited PV course, a working at heights course and relevant electrical quals.

Regards
Bruce

 

[CJD]

The point I am trying to understand is like part P training is a PV course really necessary, how mant times have you seen traing provoders insiting that you do a part P course to enable you to register with a recognised body.

If you are competant and that means understanding the requirements of BS7671 2008 then this is sufficient for you to be able to join a scheme.

If like me you have completed an indentured apprenticeship with 2361 and 2 plus 2391 plus 17th and with a registered scheme do I really need to have done a PV course at what seems close to £1000 on average to be able to comply? or is this another "cash cow" for training providers twisting the real requirements to suit their needs?

 

[t4sltd]

I got MCS without a course but I have 10 years PV experience and degrees in renewable energy and electrical engineering. If you are competent e.g. know and understand the DTI guide, manufacturer's instructions, 17th edition etc you should be able to pass MCS without going on a course. Ask them- MCS makes up the rules as it goes along and doesn't write anything down!

 

[CJD]

Thanks T4s but you still say "pass" is this the on site assessement?

 

[t4sltd]

Yes I mean become MCS accredited..

 

[BruceB]

I agree that it should not be necessary to do courses if you have the experience. But the assessment is more about the process and paperwork than detailed technical stuff. You need to provide some form of evidence or the assessor cannot put a tick in the box. Personally, I decided to cut the risk and do a one day Nibe heat pump course and a one day Epogee solar pv course. I was confident I could blag anything I was asked as I also have an engineering degree, CEng, FIET, 2381 & 2391. You do learn new things even on a one day course. As I said, it is worth speaking to the organisation you want to be acccredited with. Beware the initial answer you get, because the people who answer the phones work to a checklist and if you are sure of your ground you might have a more fruitful discussion with someone more senior, or even the assessor who will visit you.

Regards
Bruce