Solar Installer Career Guide in Texas

How to Become a Solar Installer in Texas

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 Texas complete technical training programs, electrical courses, or employer-based apprenticeship programs. Training includes photovoltaic system installation, solar panel mounting, electrical wiring, inverter installation, battery storage systems, roof safety, equipment troubleshooting, and National Electrical Code (NEC) requirements.

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 Texas

The salary figure shown on this page represents the Texas 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 Texas is approximately $3,620 lower. This comparison does not account for differences in cost of living.

OFFICIAL REGULATORY SOURCE

Licensing Authority for Solar Installers in Texas

Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation — Electricians Program

Official Website: https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/electricians/index.htm

License Types:

• Apprentice Electrician
• Residential Wireman
• Journeyman Electrician
• Master Electrician
• Electrical Contractor

Authority Notes:

Texas requires non-exempt photovoltaic electrical work to be performed by licensed individuals through a licensed electrical contractor. Residential solar retailer and salesperson registration is scheduled to become mandatory on September 1, 2026; as of July 31, 2026, that requirement is not yet in effect.

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 Texas

EDUCATION DIRECTORY

Solar Installer Training Providers in Texas

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 Texas

STATE AND LOCAL RULES

Solar Installer Licensing Requirements in Texas

Texas does not require a statewide license specifically for Solar Installers. However, electrical work involved in solar photovoltaic (PV) installation must be performed by licensed electricians or under appropriate electrical contractor supervision. Solar professionals commonly obtain NABCEP certification and OSHA safety training to improve employment opportunities.

Texas requires individuals performing non-exempt photovoltaic electrical installation work to hold the appropriate electrician license and perform that work through a licensed electrical contractor. A turnkey solar-installation business must hold a Texas Electrical Contractor license.

EMPLOYMENT PROJECTIONS

Solar Installer Job Outlook in Texas

Texas has excellent demand for Solar Installers due to its rapidly expanding solar energy market, large-scale solar farms, residential solar adoption, and growing renewable energy investments. The state’s strong solar resources and increasing electricity demand continue to create new opportunities across major cities and rural energy regions.

Texas projects solar photovoltaic installer employment to increase from approximately 5,050 workers in 2022 to 7,220 in 2032, an increase of about 43%. Approximately 730 openings per year are projected.

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. Texas Wages for Solar Installer (SOC 47-2231) — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Texas Solar Installer Wages
3. Texas Solar Installer Employment Trends — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Texas Solar Installer Employment Trends
4. Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation — Electricians Program — Licensing authority. Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation — Electricians Program

CAREER DISCOVERY

Related Trade Careers in Texas

STATE CAREER GUIDES

Explore Solar Installer Careers by State