In the world of professional PV (photovoltaic) solar installation, the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) represents the highest standard of professional certification programs. In fact, it is North America's only renewable energy personnel certification program accredited at an international level. NABCEP certification ensures that the solar installer adheres to a rigorous set of criteria all-the-while instilling confidence in you, the consumer.
Think of your money for a moment. In the complicated world of finance, you need a way to trust that the people handling your money are going to do the job well. A lot is at stake! That is why you look for a certified public accountant (CPA) or a certified financial planner (CFP). Solar, when it comes down to it, isn't all that much different. When you buy solar, you are investing your money in something that pays itself off in ten years or less and then makes you money over time. (Unlike stocks, however, solar is a sure investment.)
This means, then, that much like you would hire a CPA or CFP to take care of your money, it would be in your best interest to hire a certified professional when it comes to installing your solar, too. A lot of things can go wrong in the implementation of your solar investment - faulty waterproofing, wrong system sizing, shoddy components, to name a few. Certified professionals are trained to prevent the full scope of these issues (and address them, if need be). It turns out, though, they're also in short supply, especially in Santa Barbara!
Allow us to brag for a moment. At the beginning of this month (May 2018), Ryan Helmer, Sunrise 805's Senior Project Manager, qualified, tested, and received NABCEP certification for "PV Solar Installation Professional"! To be certified, Ryan first took a class in advanced PV-specific training through Solar Energy International (SEI), the most respected solar education provider in the industry. He then enrolled in the OSHA Outreach Training Program for the construction industry, another 10-hours added to his course load. Finally, Ryan (prior to his promotion to "Senior Project Manager") took the lead in three of our projects. He drafted plans, ordered materials, and oversaw the installations, earning him the experiential credits he needed to take the final exam. Four hours of testing later, Ryan received NABCEP certification. He passed, as we thought he might, with flying colors.
Here's the real big news: This makes Ryan the only NABCEP-certified solar professional in the city of Santa Barbara, not to mention Ventura, Oxnard, or Camarillo! Under his knowledge and guidance, Sunrise 805 will continue to plan, install, and commission solar systems that exceed the expectations of their owners, both in quality and in longevity. We couldn't be more proud to call Ryan our own, and - as a result of his efforts - officially call ourselves the only NABCEP-certified solar installer in Santa Barbara!