What Is a Solar Consultant and How to Become One
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What Does a Solar Consultant Do?
As a solar consultant, you help explain renewable energy systems and resources to potential customers. In this role, you may travel to visit potential job sites, help determine power needs, and use software to determine the actual costs and rate of return on solar systems. This job involves significant amounts of market research and trends and could also include negotiating with lending institutions and local government offices. Some consultants focus on the marketing and sales aspect while others provide technical consulting and may create complex engineering blueprints. Many solar consultants focus on residential customers, but some focus on commercial buildings or larger industrial facilities.
How to Become a Solar Consultant
The primary qualifications for becoming a solar consultant are a bachelor's degree and some experience with solar systems. Most companies prefer applicants who have a relevant engineering degree, but they may also accept people with backgrounds in sales or marketing. The solar industry moves relatively quickly, with new products coming out regularly, so research skills and the ability to stay on top of the latest developments are essential to this job. Fulfilling the responsibilities and duties of a solar consultant requires interpersonal skills, analytical skills, stamina, and sometimes the ability to climb ladders and work in high places for extended periods.
