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Careers in Solar Energy

Working in the Renewable Energy Industry

As the world shifts towards renewable energy sources, the solar power industry is rapidly growing. With this growth comes a variety of career paths and employment opportunities for individuals looking to make a positive impact on the environment.

What is Renewable Energy?

Renewable energy is energy that comes from a source that won’t run out. They are natural and self-replenishing, and usually have a low, or zero carbon footprint.

Types of technology used in renewable energy include:

Solar PV (Photovoltaic)
Solar Thermal
Wind Turbines
Hydroelectric
Bioenergy
Marine (Wave, Tidal)

Micro-grid
Hydrogen
Geothermal
Energy Storage
EV Chargers
Grid / Transmission

In this article, we will focus on the Solar Power Industry, since most of what we do at SolarWise Wagga is related to that branch of renewable energy.

Some of the core aspects of solar power include:
• Converting sunlight into electricity using solar PV panels.
• Transforming electricity from DC to AC with inverters.
• Storage of electrical energy in batteries.
• Energy management, control, and monitoring.
• Electric vehicle charging.

We’ll also share some insight into the things we do, the type of jobs & roles we have, and what it is like to work as part of our team at SolarWise Wagga.

A Career in the Solar Power Industry

Are you interested in making a positive impact on the environment while also pursuing a rewarding career? Look no further than the solar power industry.

As the global shift towards renewable energy continues, the solar power sector is experiencing rapid growth, creating a wide range of job opportunities. Working in this industry not only allows you to contribute towards the fight against climate change but also offers numerous benefits such as job growth, positive impact, career variety, innovation, and competitive salaries.

If you’re considering a career in the solar power industry, here are just a few of the benefits.

Job Growth

The demand for clean energy is growing, and with this comes an increased need for skilled professionals to design, install, and maintain solar panels and other solar equipment. Solar power industry jobs are expected to grow steadily over the next decade.

Positive Impact

Working in the solar power industry allows you to make a positive impact on the environment, as solar panels generate electricity without emissions or pollution. Not only can you contribute to the fight against climate change, but you can also see the tangible results of your work through the production of renewable energy.

Career Variety

The solar power industry offers a wide range of career paths, from sales and marketing to research and development. Whether you’re interested in working on solar panel installation teams, designing solar energy systems, performing quality control checks, or selling solar equipment, there’s no shortage of opportunities in this growing field.

Innovation

The solar power industry is constantly evolving to make solar energy more efficient and cost-effective. Working in this field means you get to be a part of cutting-edge innovation in renewable energy technology.

Competitive Salary

With the high demand for skilled professionals, the solar power industry offers competitive salaries and benefits.

Conclusion

If you’re passionate about the environment and making a lasting impact on our planet, working in the solar power industry is an excellent career choice. With job growth, positive impact, career variety, innovation, and competitive salaries, there’s never been a better time to pursue a career in this exciting and rewarding industry.

The employment opportunities in the solar industry are many and varied, here are just a few:

• Sales Representative
• Energy Consultant
• System Designer
• System Installer
• Electrician / Technician
• Electrical Trade Assistant
• Apprentice Electrician
• Renewable Energy Project Manager
• Renewable Energy Engineer

Working at SolarWise Wagga

SolarWise Wagga Pty Ltd is a locally owned business established in 2009.

Since its foundation, SolarWise Wagga has continued to grow as a specialist provider of renewable energy solutions, including quality solar power systems and energy efficient products designed to reduce energy consumption and save on energy costs.

Alex Manley (Owner/Manager) leads a specialist team of qualified and accredited electrical technicians and designers who carry out project installations and provide on-going service and support to our valued clients.

SolarWise is based in Wagga Wagga, NSW and provides solar energy solutions to the Riverina area.

SolarWise Wagga - Company brochure

SolarWise Wagga – Company brochure

PDF (file size: 1.9MB)
[DOWNLOAD]

The Advantages of Working in a Small Business Environment

Working in a small business environment offers unique advantages that can positively impact your career and professional growth. In a small business, you have the opportunity to wear multiple hats and take on a variety of responsibilities, which allows for greater learning and skill development.
Additionally, small businesses often have a close-knit team, fostering stronger relationships and a sense of camaraderie. With a smaller organizational structure, there is often more flexibility and agility, allowing for faster decision-making and the ability to see the direct impact of your work.
Furthermore, the close proximity to senior leadership in a small business environment provides greater exposure to decision-making processes and a chance to have your voice heard.
Overall, working in a small business environment can provide valuable experiences, personal growth, and a sense of fulfilment.

Opportunities for Growth

In a small business, you have the chance to take on diverse roles that allow you to develop new skills and challenge yourself in ways you might not be able to in a larger company. Additionally, small businesses often encourage innovation and creativity, giving you the freedom to think outside the box and come up with new ideas that can benefit the company.

Flexibility

Small businesses often have fewer bureaucratic structures in place, allowing for more flexibility in work schedules and decision-making. This means you could have more freedom in choosing your work hours or even your projects. Additionally, there is often more room for negotiation in small businesses when it comes to salaries and benefits.

Tight-Knit Team

In a small business, you will likely be working closely with just a few other team members. This creates a stronger company culture and a sense of camaraderie between colleagues. You will also be able to build closer relationships with your managers and company leaders, resulting in a greater sense of community and support.

Direct Impact

In a small business, your work will have a direct impact on the company’s success. With a smaller organizational structure, your contributions will be more visible and have a bigger impact on the overall direction of the company. This can lead to a greater sense of ownership and satisfaction in your work.

Greater Autonomy

Another advantage of working in a small business environment is greater autonomy. Since there are fewer layers of management, you will likely have more control over your work and be able to make decisions independently. This can lead to a greater sense of trust between management and employees.

Conclusion

Working in a small business environment has numerous advantages, including opportunities for growth, flexibility, a tight-knit team, direct impact, and greater autonomy. If you’re looking for a fulfilling and dynamic work experience, consider a career in a small business. You might be surprised at the opportunities it can offer.

Career Paths in Solar Power

There are various skill-based career paths available in the solar power industry.
Here we will look at some job positions relating to solar power system installation & maintenance, and possible career path entry points.

Work Experience
Work experience is a type of on-the-job training that gives you a chance to try out a career you may be considering.
It provides the opportunity to try skills, tour the workplace, and see what the job involves.
While work experience is usually something carried out by students or school leavers, it is also beneficial to anyone who is looking to explore other types of work or make a career change.

Work experience is usually done over relatively short periods and can lead to ongoing employment.

Trade Assistant
A trade assistant is an entry-level role that assists qualified trades personnel.
While there are no specific qualifications required to work as a trade assistant, having trade experience and possessing relevant safety licenses and tickets will be advantageous.

Trade assistants develop their skills while on the job which can lead to gaining further qualifications in the future.
Working as a Trade Assistant is often a stepping stone to becoming a qualified tradesperson. It allows someone to gain first-hand experience in a particular field before deciding to commit to a trade apprenticeship.

Trade Apprentice
An Electrical Trade Apprentice is someone who has commenced formal education and training to become a qualified Electrician. A trade apprenticeship involves full-time employment with a company or through an employment agency, gaining on-the-job experience, and education from a training provider such as TAFE NSW.

Electrical Tradesperson
This is a qualified & licensed Electrician.
In NSW they will have an Electrical Contractor license or a Qualified Supervisor license.

Solar Power System Accreditation
Solar Accreditation is an additional requirement for solar power installers in certain situations and circumstances.
Accreditation involves further training and qualifications in solar power & energy storage systems.
A qualified Electrician can gain Solar Installer Accreditation.
Solar Design Accreditation is available for those without electrical qualifications.

Project Manager
People who have accumulated years of experience in the solar power industry will often progress into project management roles in large commercial or industrial projects, solar farms, and community microgrids.

Electrical Engineer
Electricians who want to develop specialist knowledge and take their career to the next level can undertake further education with a Diploma in Electrical Engineering or an Advanced Diploma in Electrical Engineering.

Electrical Engineers are involved in the planning and management of large electrical projects, promoting environmental sustainability. They can attain higher-level management and leadership positions and are often in high demand in this dynamic industry.

Diversification
Experienced Electricians, Project Managers, and Engineers will sometimes diversify into roles within other sectors of the renewable energy industry such as wind, hydro, biofuel, and hydrogen.

Business
Through the progression of a career in the solar power industry, people can land highly rewarding positions as Managers or Directors in a Company, while others may become a Business Owner of a small-medium enterprise.

New Energy Apprenticeships Program

The New Energy Apprenticeships Program encourages
Australians to consider careers in the clean energy sector.

Australian Apprentices who are eligible for the program
have access to financial assistance of up to $10,000.

More Info:
https://www.australianapprenticeships.gov.au/node/4041

https://www.australianapprenticeships.gov.au/node/4041
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SolarWise Wagga Pty Ltd

Our key goals & Principles

 

  • Endeavour to be at the cutting edge of renewable energy technology in an ever-evolving industry
  • Contribute to building a safe and sustainable industry that can provide future growth and employment in the renewable energy sector.
  • To keep the public properly informed on the value and real viability of a solar grid connect system and how to ensure it effectively saves money for you or your business.
  • Maintain strict product screening processes to secure safe and reliable customer investments.
  • Supply the best quality products to provide the highest returns and peace of mind.
  • Always provide quality time to customer enquiries to help them through the process, making it as easy and stress-free as possible.
  • To ensure all clients understand how to best utilize their system to ensure the highest returns
  • To guarantee the highest standard of workmanship for all system installations
Sarah McCaig
The Solarwise team were very professional in installing our new solar system.
They used their time efficiently and were friendly and professional in their manner.
Would highly recommend Solarwise.
Response from the owner:Hi there Sarah Thanks so much for your kind words. Its great to have such wonderful customers like you and Andrew. Such a pleasure working with you. Regards Alex Manley Solar Wise Wagga
Emily Dunn
We have trusted Alex and his team for almost 20 years for all our solar needs for both solar hot water and solar panel installations on the two properties that we have owned during this time. Alex and the SolarWise team can always be trusted for their prompt, reliable and professional service and I highly recommend them for anyone looking for solar solutions.
Response from the owner:Hi there Emily Hope all is well. Thanks so much for the wonderful review. Its these sorts of kind works that make coming to work and taking care of people like yourself worth while. Been a pleasure working with you and Jim over the years. Kind Regards Alex Manley Solar Wise Wagga
Gordon Murray
SolarWise has proven to be a reliable company to deal with. From a well prepared plan for our needs, to installing the solar panels and battery on time, the very neat work including clean up, and now the delivery of power both day and overnight. We have not used any grid power since the system was installed, although this will change as we use electricity to heat the house over winter.
Response from the owner:Hi there Gordon. Thanks so much for your kind works and lovely review. I'm so glad to hear you haven't used any grid power since installation. All the best and please feel free to contact Solar Wise for any further support. Kind Regards Alex Manley Solar Wise Wagga
Marilyn Hart
Recommend this business A professional experience from first contact with SolarWise.Advised and guided on system size needed and cost for our home , quickly and professionally installed . Very happy with whole experience , workers , and panels and app installed .Already seeing savings off first account. 10 /10 Terry & Marilyn Hart
Response from the owner:Hi there Marilyn Thanks so much for your wonderful review. We are so happy to hear that you had a great experience. Hope you are enjoying some energy savings. Regards Alex Manley Solar Wise Wagga

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