At Learn Trade Skills, we believe that real learning happens when students get their hands on actual equipment. That philosophy was put into action recently when a group of our trainees completed the installation of a full 16kWh solar photovoltaic and battery storage system as part of their practical training.
The Project Brief
The installation involved a complete solar PV array paired with a 16kWh battery storage unit. Trainees were responsible for every stage of the process, from initial site assessment and system design through to commissioning and handover documentation. This mirrors the workflow they will encounter on real domestic and commercial installations once qualified.
The system was designed to capture solar energy during daylight hours, store excess generation in the battery, and feed power back into the property when needed. This type of hybrid setup is increasingly common across UK homes as energy costs continue to rise and homeowners look for greater independence from the grid.
What the Trainees Learned
The hands-on installation gave our students experience across a wide range of practical skills:
- Roof-mounted panel installation including mounting rail systems, weatherproofing, and correct panel orientation
- DC and AC wiring from the panels through the inverter and into the consumer unit
- Battery storage integration ensuring safe and compliant connections between the battery unit and the rest of the system
- System commissioning including testing, performance verification, and generation meter setup
- Documentation and certification required for MCS compliance and building regulations
Working on a system of this scale gave trainees a genuine understanding of the complexities involved. Small classroom exercises are valuable, but nothing compares to the confidence gained from completing a full installation from start to finish.
Why Hands-On Training Matters
The renewable energy sector is growing rapidly, and employers are looking for electricians who can demonstrate practical competence rather than just theoretical knowledge. Having completed a real installation during training gives our students a significant advantage when applying for jobs or pitching for contracts.
Battery storage in particular is a skill area where demand is outpacing supply of qualified installers. Homeowners who have already invested in solar panels are increasingly adding battery systems to maximise their return, and new builds are being designed with integrated renewable energy from the outset.
Trainee Feedback
The response from participants was overwhelmingly positive. Many commented that the hands-on project was the highlight of their course and gave them the confidence to tackle similar installations independently. Several trainees noted that seeing how the different components connect together made the theoretical content they had studied much easier to understand.
Looking Ahead
We are committed to expanding our practical training facilities and offering more opportunities for students to work on live installations. As the UK continues its transition towards cleaner energy, the demand for skilled solar PV and battery storage installers will only increase.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need existing electrical qualifications before taking the solar PV course? Yes, the City and Guilds 2922 Solar PV course requires you to hold a relevant electrical qualification, such as the Level 3 2365 or equivalent. This ensures you have the foundational knowledge needed to work safely with electrical systems.
How long does it take to learn solar PV and battery installation? The formal courses typically take around five days each for solar PV and battery storage. However, gaining confidence through practical experience takes additional time on real installations, which is why hands-on training is so valuable.
Is there demand for solar and battery installers in the UK? Absolutely. The combination of government incentives, rising energy prices, and increasing environmental awareness means demand for qualified renewable energy installers is growing year on year across the UK.