Why is solar safety training required?
Safety is a key priority in the delivery of Solar Victoria's programs. As our programs roll out, increased demand for solar generates more work. The increased demand creates more installations for existing workers and brings new workers into the solar industry for the first time.
A level playing field is required so that all workers – from new apprentices and trade assistants, to experienced electricians and plumbers – have a consistent level of knowledge and skills to do their job safely and to a high standard.
As an industry participant in our programs, you must also meet your OHS obligations. We expect retailers to provide all necessary information, instruction, training and supervision to ensure installers work safely and without risks to health.
Working safely in solar training
The Victorian Government is providing free (for eligible workers) the skill set 22515VIC Course in Working Safely in the Solar . It comprises:
| Unit code | Unit | Do you have to complete this unit? |
|---|---|---|
| VU22744 | Work safely in the solar industry | Yes – this unit is mandatory. Complete this unit first. |
| CPCCWHS1001 | Prepare to work safely in the construction industry (White Card). | Yes – this unit is mandatory. |
| CPCCWHS2001 | Apply WHS requirements, policies and procedures in the construction industry. | Recommended. Apply for credit if you have already completed this unit. |
| CPCCCM2010B | Work safely at heights | Recommended. Apply for credit if you have already completed this unit. |
| HLTAID011 | Provide first aid | Recommended. Apply for credit if you have already completed this unit. |
Who has to complete it?
Completing VU22744 Work safely in the solar industry is mandatory for on-site installers and other on-site workers in the Solar Homes and Solar for Business Victoria’s programs. From 1 July 2023, this includes:
- solar PV and battery installers
- all plumbers installing solar hot water systems
- apprentices
- trade assistants.
From 1 July 2023, completing VU22744 Work safely in the solar industry is recommended only for heat pump installers and other heat pump workers participating in the hot water rebate stream. We will review our training requirements to ensure suitability for workers involved in the installation of hot water systems.
Mandatory training requirements and recommendations are set out in the Notice to Market. Solar workers who have not completed mandatory training risk not being able to participate in our programs.
Participants who exit the course without completing all five units will receive a Statement of Attainment from the training provider which lists the successfully completed units.
Experienced workers may be eligible for credit towards this course through credit transfers for units already completed, recognition of prior learning for similar units and on the job learning or recognition of current competence. Contact a participating training provider to discuss these options.
Plumbers who work with Solar Victoria retailers can apply for Master Plumbers CPD points for all units in 22515VIC Course in Working Safely in the Solar Industry. See the Master Plumbers for the allocation of Master Plumbers CPD points.
Solar safety training is also available free of charge to workers who maintain and clean solar PV panels. While not mandatory for these workers, completing the training will help contribute to a safe working environment for all.
How to enrol
Please go to the Victorian Skills to select a participating training provider.
After completing all steps to enrol, keep an eye on your emails (and sometimes your junk or spam folder). Your chosen training provider will use email as the main way to communicate with you.
For help with your enrolment, please contact your chosen training provider directly.
About our commitment
Solar Victoria is investing $11million to deliver a comprehensive training and workforce development package for solar and heating, ventilation and air-conditioning industry workers to have the skills and capabilities needed to deliver our programs and support growth.
Boosting training and workforce development will ensure Victoria has an ongoing supply of skilled workers to support growth in the renewable and clean energy sector.
Any questions?
Please contact your preferred training with any questions about this training and how to enrol.
If you are not eligible for free TAFE or other government assistance, or for general enquiries about Solar Victoria's training and workforce development package, please email industrytraining@team.solar.vic.gov.au or call our Customer Service team during business hours on 1300 376 393.
For information about other initiatives helping to grow Victoria’s clean energy workforce, see Training and workforce development.
Promotional resources
Many of our training and workforce development initiatives are open to people working outside our programs, so we encourage training providers, local councils, businesses, community groups and others to promote them. See Training and workforce development promotional resources.
Reviewed 17 May 2023
