Solar Installer Career Guide in Illinois

How to Become a Solar Installer in Illinois

Solar photovoltaic installers commonly learn through employer-sponsored training, an apprenticeship, a technical program, or supervised on-the-job instruction. Training typically covers PV modules, mounting and racking systems, roof and ground installations, basic electrical theory, system components, blueprint reading, fall protection, electrical safety, weatherproofing, commissioning, and manufacturer requirements.

Training does not automatically authorize every type of solar work. Mechanical mounting, roofing work, electrical wiring, service-panel work, battery storage, system commissioning, and utility interconnection may require different licenses or supervision. NABCEP certification is an industry credential, not a substitute for a state or local contractor or electrician license.

Most Solar Installers in Illinois complete solar photovoltaic training programs, electrical technology courses, technical college programs, or employer-based training. Training includes solar panel installation, PV system wiring, inverter installation, battery storage systems, roof safety, electrical code requirements, troubleshooting, and renewable energy maintenance.

Note: Training pathways vary by employer, program sponsor, and licensing category. Classroom education may provide useful technical preparation, but it does not automatically replace supervised work experience unless the applicable licensing authority specifically allows that credit.

Solar Installer Salary in Illinois

The salary figure shown on this page represents the Illinois median wage for solar installer workers, based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics occupational wage data. A median wage is the point at which half of workers earn more and half earn less. It is not a guaranteed starting salary.

Actual earnings may vary by experience, license level, metropolitan area, employer, industry, overtime, and union agreement.

Compared with the national median of $51,860, the median wage in Illinois is approximately $7,770 higher. This comparison does not account for differences in cost of living.

OFFICIAL REGULATORY SOURCE

Licensing Authority for Solar Installers in Illinois

Illinois Commerce Commission

Official Website: https://icc.illinois.gov/authority/distributed-generation-installer

License Types:

• Distributed Generation Installer Certification
• Utility-Scale Solar Installer Certification
• Applicable local electrical license

Authority Notes:

ICC certification applies to entities performing covered electrical wiring and connections needed to interconnect distributed-generation facilities. Utility-scale projects use a separate certification framework.

Note: Licensing rules, fees, examinations, exemptions, and renewal requirements may change. Applicants should verify current requirements directly with the authority listed above before beginning work, applying for an examination, or enrolling in a training program.

CAREER PREPARATION

Solar Installer Training Requirements in Illinois

EDUCATION DIRECTORY

Solar Installer Training Providers in Illinois

Note: Program availability, admission requirements, tuition, and credit toward licensing requirements may change. Verify current details directly with the provider and the applicable state licensing authority before enrolling. Listings are informational and do not constitute rankings or endorsements.

PAID TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES

Solar Installer Apprenticeship Programs in Illinois

STATE AND LOCAL RULES

Solar Installer Licensing Requirements in Illinois

Illinois does not require a standalone Solar Installer license. However, electrical work involved in photovoltaic (PV) installations must comply with Illinois electrical licensing requirements and local building regulations. Solar installers commonly work under licensed electrical contractors for electrical connections and system commissioning. NABCEP certification and OSHA safety training are widely preferred by employers.

Illinois requires certification for organizations or individuals installing the electrical interconnection of distributed-generation facilities. Utility-scale solar installers are subject to a separate Illinois Commerce Commission certification framework. Local electrical licenses, permits, and inspections may also apply.

EMPLOYMENT PROJECTIONS

Solar Installer Job Outlook in Illinois

Illinois has growing demand for Solar Installers due to expanding renewable energy adoption, the Illinois Solar for All program, community solar projects, commercial solar installations, and utility-scale renewable energy development. The Chicago metropolitan area and surrounding industrial regions provide strong employment opportunities.

Illinois projects solar photovoltaic installer employment to increase from approximately 200 workers in 2022 to 530 in 2032, an increase of about 170%. Approximately 60 openings per year are projected. Because the base employment level is small, the percentage should be interpreted together with the projected worker counts.

Note: State employment projections may use a different base period from national BLS projections. Projected growth is an estimate rather than a guarantee of employment, and local demand may vary by metropolitan area, industry, construction activity, and employer investment.

CAREER QUESTIONS

Frequently Asked Questions

DATA TRANSPARENCY

Career Data Sources

State wage, employment outlook, and licensing information is reviewed using government and official regulatory sources. Data and requirements may change after publication.

1. May 2024 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates — U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. May 2024 State OEWS
2. Illinois Wages for Solar Installer (SOC 47-2231) — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Illinois Solar Installer Wages
3. Illinois Solar Installer Employment Trends — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Illinois Solar Installer Employment Trends
4. Illinois Commerce Commission — Licensing authority. Illinois Commerce Commission

CAREER DISCOVERY

Related Trade Careers in Illinois

STATE CAREER GUIDES

Explore Solar Installer Careers by State