State Licensing Requirements
As you enter into the renewable energy career field it is critical that you understand the difference between your local laws regarding licensing and professional certification, as licensing is distinct from certification. States and localities establish licensing requirements for contractors and electricians in order to protect consumers from unsafe practices and protect the reputation of the industry, as improper installation may create safety risks or result in poor equipment performance. While licensing is mandatory for certain practices, certification is usually a voluntary standard that installers attain to differentiate themselves from competition and to instill confidence in consumers. Certification may entail completing coursework, installation experience for a certain period of time, and/or taking an exam, but it is typically not required by the local jurisdiction to legally install equipment.
Conclusion
Even in states that do not have contractor licensing requirements, financial incentive programs often include installer requirements, such as pre-approval or, some cases, NABCEP certification. Although intended as a voluntary, value-added credential, NABCEP certification is now either mandatory or preferred for contractors who seek to install systems eligible for state incentive programs. For example, to be eligible for state rebate funds in Maine, Minnesota or Wisconsin and possibly more, a PV system must be installed by a NABCEP-certified professional. California, Delaware and Massachusetts, etc. rebate programs prefer or recommend NABCEP-certified professionals. In Utah and Rhode Island, NABCEP-certification is a prerequisite for qualifying for a state solar contractor license. In the absence of state licensing or certification requirements, local governments like counties or cities may adopt regulations or establish their own licensing procedure.