Solar PV Technician

Surveying a roof or site, fixing mounting structures, connecting panels, inverters, batteries and wiring, testing and commissioning the system, and servicing it later. Often you work with an electrician, a civil crew and the customer.

A day in the work
You start early, check the day's roof or site list, and load tools, panels and cables into the van. On site you measure the roof, fix the mounting frame, lay out the panels and run the DC and AC wiring to the inverter. In the late afternoon you test the voltage and the system, switch it on, and show the customer how it works before you write up the job.

1. Step 1 · Class 9–10Build a strong base in Science and Maths. Many ITI Electrician seats ask for a Class 10 pass with these subjects. (reported — check with the official body)
2. Step 2 · After Class 10Join a 2-year ITI Electrician trade at a government or approved ITI. The trade covers solar panels, inverters and batteries in the second year. Some institutes also run a 1-year Solar Technician (Electrical) trade. (reported — check with the official body)
3. Step 3 · After ITI (age 18+)Take a solar PV course: the Suryamitra programme run by NISE, or the SCGJ Solar PV Installer qualification. Suryamitra is a residential course at approved centres, and selection is by the host institute.
4. Step 4 · End of courseComplete the practical work at a solar site and pass the final written and practical assessment. You need at least 90% attendance to get the certificate. (reported — check with the official body)
5. Step 5 · After certificateWork with a solar company, an EPC contractor or a local vendor. Many people learn more on the job, such as system design, safety and servicing, over the next few years. (reported — check with the official body)

• RouteITI Electrician (2 years), then Suryamitra or SCGJ solar PV course. This is the most common path.
• Route1-year Solar Technician (Electrical) ITI trade at an NSTI or ITI that offers it, then a solar course or direct job.
• RouteDiploma in Electrical or Electronics (3 years), then a solar PV course. Diploma holders are also eligible for Suryamitra.

Fees from: Vikaspedia summary of NISE Suryamitra fee and lodging rules (reported) · Government ITI Summerkot training details · Vikaspedia (NISE content): Suryamitra Skill Development Programme, fee structure and admission · Delhi Govt ITI Admission 2026 portal (DTTE, Govt of NCT Delhi) · DGT CTS CBT exam fee standard operating process (dgt.gov.in) · NISE: Suryamitra fee notice (via eqmagpro, unauthorised-institute warning). Fees change every year — check the college's own fee page before you pay.

Pay depends on your training, whether you hold a recognised certificate, the employer (a large EPC firm or a small local vendor), and the city and the season for projects. Early pay is usually modest, and it rises with experience and supervisory skills.

NISE says special emphasis in selection goes to women, SC/ST candidates, rural youth and unemployed youth. No separate physical standards for women or for students with disabilities were found in the sources checked.

• Class 7–9Build a small solar lamp or a phone charger with a small panel and a battery, using a science kit or simple home parts. Note what works and what does not.
• Class 10–12Visit a nearby ITI, ask to see the Electrician workshop, and read the NISE Suryamitra page to learn what Class 10 pass and age rules apply.Open link ↗
• College or afterRead the SCGJ Solar PV Installer qualification list to see the tasks and the skills the course expects, such as safety, testing and commissioning.Open link ↗

• Suryamitra is a free residential course for trainees, with boarding and lodging. You still pay your own travel.
• Course length is not the same across sources. NISE guidelines describe 600 hours (about 90 days), while the SCGJ Solar PV Installer qualification lists 420 hours. Check with the training centre before you enrol.
• PM Surya Ghar vendors must show at least three solar-trained technicians. Private guides say the training is about 20 days in class plus on-the-job work. Treat this as an estimate, not an official rule.
• Rooftop solar demand is growing, but it depends on government schemes and market cycles. Steady work comes from building skills, not just holding a certificate.