training FAQs

1. Are pre-requisites or prior solar installation training required to enroll in Sharp's solar training?
   No. Licensed contractors who pass the exam will receive formal certification. Non-licensed individuals may enroll but will not be formally certified.
2. How much does solar training cost?
   The entire three-day course is $500 per person, payable by credit card (American Express, Visa or MasterCard). Travel to the training center, food and lodging expenses are the responsibility of each student.
3. Where are the solar training centers located?
   Sharp maintains training centers in Huntington Beach, CA, and Mahwah, NJ.
   
   
   California Solar Location:
   5901 Bolsa Avenue
   Huntington Beach , CA 92647
   
   T: 1-800-SOLAR-06 (800-765-2706)
   E: traininginfo@sharpusa.com
   Directions: 714-903-4600
   Security Desk: 714-903-4670
   
   New Jersey Solar Location:
   1 Sharp Plaza
   Mahwah , NJ 07495
   South Building , 1st Floor, Solar Training Room
   T: 1-800-SOLAR-06 (800-765-2706)
   E: traininginfo@sharpusa.com
   Directions: 201-529-8414
   Security Desk: 201-529-8200
   
4. What exactly does the solar training cover?
   Participants in the Sharp solar installation training program follow a typical residential solar installation step-by-step from specification to completion. Register today and put your new skills to work immediately after completing our highly-regarded solar electric system installation training. Sharp's premier PV training course provides the hands-on experience and knowledge needed to competently and safely install solar systems and provides a technical manual that serves as a highly-effective field reference:

   Day 1 Modules
   AM: introduction to Sharp solar, the solar industry, and photovoltaic technology.
   PM: NEC 690, system design, site assessment, cost analysis
   
   Day 2: Inverter
   AM: introduction to M215Z, components (cables, brackets, caps, etc), array builder, AC wiring, mounting, monitoring
   PM: communication, enlighten, networking, activation, minor troubleshooting
   
   Day 3: Mounting Hardware & Compliance Issues
   AM: introduction to mounting hardware, hands on installation
   PM: commissioning, troubleshooting, permitting, rebate information

5. How long does the training last?
   Class will last from 9am to 5pm. Please arrive at the main entrance to sign in with security at 8:45am
6. How do I register for solar training classes?
   Visit our REGISTER NOW page to enroll in an available class or register for the waiting list for the next available class.
7. How will Sharp's solar training benefit me?
   Proper installation of Sharp solar electric systems requires a thorough understanding of solar principles, components, capabilities, and practical considerations like wiring and mounting hardware. A full three-day course is required for all new installers of Sharp solar residential grid-tied systems.
8. Do I receive a hard copy of the certificate of completion?
   State-licensed contractors who complete the course and pass Sharp's comprehensive exam will receive a formal hard copy of their certification for installations. Non-licensed individuals may enroll but will not be formally certified.
9. Is this solar installation training limited to residential systems?
   Yes.
10. Is there an expiration date on the certification? Will I need to be re-trained every few years?
    No, once you complete the course and are certified, you do not have to repeat training.
11. Do I need to be at least 18 years old to enroll?
    Yes
12. How many days of solar installation training are required to become a certified Sharp residential installer?
    Participants must attend the full three-day course.
13. Is there a mandatory dress code?
    Dress is business casual including full length pants and closed-toe shoes, sturdy enough for roof work. Sharp reserves the right to turn away students who are dressed inappropriately.
14. May I publicize the fact that I am a certified Sharp installer (i.e. company web site, business card, or other marketing collateral)?
    Yes, once you earn your Sharp solar certification status, you are welcome to promote it, but you may not use verbiage indicating that your company is a "partner" or 'in partnership with" Sharp.
15. Does solar training entitle me to buy products direct from Sharp?
    No. Sharp sells directly to established solar installation companies currently purchasing and installing at least 30KW of solar modules per month. Sharp requires direct customers to have at least one year of solar installation experience, in-house system design capabilities, and strong financial statements. Sharp's distributors may be able to assist you if your company does not meet these criteria.