North Carolina's solar photovoltaics pathway prepares students for careers in renewable energy installation and maintenance. Students develop expertise in PV system design, electrical integration, installation techniques, and safety practices. North Carolina's growing renewable energy sector and state incentives for solar adoption create strong career opportunities.
Curriculum covers solar panel technology, electrical systems, system design, installation practices, and maintenance. Students learn about net metering, grid integration, and battery storage systems. Hands-on training includes roof safety, equipment handling, and actual PV system installation experience.
Graduates work as solar installers, solar electricians, system technicians, and project managers for solar companies. Others work for construction firms, utilities, or establish independent solar installation businesses serving North Carolina's residential and commercial markets.
Solar Photovoltaics at a Glance
3
Courses
8
Credentials
4
Career Paths
State Standards & Framework
North Carolina's solar photovoltaics curriculum aligns with industry standards and electrical codes. Students complete 4-6 pathway units covering PV technology, electrical systems, installation practices, and safety as defined by NC DPI and the National Electrical Code.
Programs teach North Carolina's solar resource potential, incentive programs, and interconnection standards. Students learn OSHA safety requirements and electrical certification pathways.
Typical Course Sequence
| Course | Code |
|---|---|
| Construction Core | IC00 |
| Electrical Trades I | IC41 |
| Electrical Trades II | IC42 |
Industry Certifications & Credentials
Career Opportunities
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2024). Growth projections from BLS Employment Projections (2023-2033). Cost-of-living adjustment uses BEA Regional Price Parities (2023). Entry-level salaries reflect the 25th percentile; experienced salaries reflect the median.
Solar Installation Assistant
Entry LevelSalary range: $36,010 - $50,630
Adjusted for cost of living: $38,252
Solar Installer
Entry LevelSalary range: $36,010 - $50,630
Adjusted for cost of living: $38,252
Solar Electrician
ExperiencedSalary range: $47,000 - $61,380
Adjusted for cost of living: $57,436
Solar Project Manager
ExperiencedSalary range: $36,010 - $50,630
Adjusted for cost of living: $50,159
Work-Based Learning Opportunities
Students intern with solar companies, electrical contractors, and construction firms throughout North Carolina's growing renewable energy sector.
Career & Technical Student Organization
Students in this pathway can participate in SkillsUSA, gaining leadership experience and competing in career-related events.
How Sage Helps North Carolina CTE Programs
AI-Powered Curriculum
Generate standards-aligned lesson plans in minutes, not months
North Carolina Standards Built In
Pre-loaded with North Carolina's CTE standards and frameworks
Teacher Customization
Teachers personalize content while maintaining standards alignment
Ongoing Updates
Curriculum stays current as North Carolina standards and industry needs evolve
Related Pathways in North Carolina
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