Certifications for Undergraduate Students in Renewable Energy

Why Renewable Energy Certifications Matter for Students

There is a soaring demand for clean energy talent across diverse sectors. In fact, employment in clean energy sectors in the United States grew by nearly 12%, from 3.2 million in 2021 to 3.6 million in 2024. In particular, solar, wind, grid modernization, and energy storage take the spotlight.

How can you take advantage of the soaring demand as a college student? Earn certifications for undergraduate students in renewable energy ASAP. You’ll gain credibility before entering the renewable energy workforce in the process.

Why? Employers use certifications to verify technical skills and safety awareness. You’ll likely then have a competitive edge for jobs.

The top pathways are the REP and PVIP certifications. Both provide a clear pathway toward in-demand jobs in the renewable energy industry.

Related:

• Sustainability Certifications for Undergraduate Students
• Top Modern Degree Programs for High-Growth Career Fields
• Environmental Science Certifications for Undergraduates
• Top Emerging Degree Programs

The Renewable Energy Job Landscape (2026–2035)

Why consider certifications for undergraduate students in renewable energy? You’ll be prepared for renewable energy job opportunities in the next decade.

In 2025, the renewable energy market was valued at $1.2 trillion. By 2026, its projected market value is $1.4 trillion – an increase of 16.7%. By the end of 2035, its projected market value is $3.8 trillion – or an increase of 171.4% from 2026.

With explosive growth comes job opportunities. Now’s the best time to gain a competitive edge for them.

Fastest-Growing Green Job Sectors

But it’s also crucial to choose certifications based on the fastest-growing sectors. These sectors offer in-demand, high-paying roles for qualified graduates.

• Solar power
• Wind turbine
• Battery technology and energy storage.
• Smart grid and energy efficiency.

The solar power (+42%) and wind turbine (+50%) sectors have high projected job growth (BLS, 2024-2034).

Why Undergraduates Should Start Early

First, certifications accelerate hiring for internships, technician roles, and project assistant roles. Second, thesehelp students stand out in engineering, environmental science, and sustainability programs.

Top Renewable Energy Certifications for Undergraduate Students

These are the best renewable energy certifications for students for the following reasons:

• Reasonable costs
• Accessible eligibility requirements
• Career-boosting benefits

Renewable Energy Professional (REP) – Association of Energy Engineers

The Renewable Energy Professional (REP) certification has these major features:

• Signals foundational knowledge and skills for real-world renewable jobs
• Applies to early- to mid-career professionals
• Provides an industry-recognized, standardized credential

For these reasons, it’s among the top entry-level renewable energy certifications. Students learn the fundamentals of:

• Energy auditing
• Renewable project fundamentals
• Energy efficiency

Career outcomes include:

• Energy analyst
• Sustainability technician
• Project assistant
• Energy auditing intern

AAE also offers student eligibility pathways or alternative criteria for early-career learners. You can qualify through courses and project experience.

Solar PV Installation Professional (PVIP) – NABCEP

NABCEP offers one of the most popular solar energy certifications for college students. But candidates must meet rigorous standards to earn credentials.

Candidates must pass the rigorous Solar PV Installation Professional (PVIP) exam. The exam validates advanced competencies in solar PV installation. As such, it’s designed for experienced professionals and considered the gold standard.

Eligibility requirements include:

• At least 18 years old
• Complete 58 hours of advanced solar PV training
• Complete  OSHA 10 Construction Industry safety training or equivalent
• Complete installations of at least six project credits in the last two years
• Documented experience in decision-making roles related to PV installation quality

Many schools offer training to students who want to meet these requirements.

Job roles include solar installer, PV technician, and residential solar consultant.

NABCEP Photovoltaic Associate (PVA) – Best Entry-Level Solar Certification

The PVA certification is an entry-level credential recognized by employers. This is suitable for undergraduates because it’s easier and cheaper to earn. The first-time application and exam fee is around $150.

The certification covers the basics of PV systems, safety, and electrical components. The hands-on knowledge and skills can improve chances of landing solar internships.

Wind Energy Technician Introductory Certifications

The top wind energy certifications for beginners include:

• American Wind Energy Association (AWEA) Wind Technician Certificate
• Global Wind Organisation (GWO) Basic Safety Training

Both prepare candidates for entry-level roles. Candidates develop skills in:

• Turbine mechanics
• Climbing safety
• Basic electrical systems

If you’re an engineering or technical student, these are ideal choices. You’ll gain practical experience with direct applications to renewable energy roles.

Energy Efficiency & Building Performance Certifications

Are you interested in a career in sustainable construction and energy management? If you are, consider earning one or more of these certifications.

• Building Performance Institute (BPI) Building Science Principles Certificate. Candidates learn the fundamentals of building science.
• RESNET HERS Rater Trainee Certification. Candidates prepare for green building assessment and energy auditing roles.

These work well for architecture, HVAC, and sustainability students, too.

There’s an increasing demand for these certifications, too. The reason: An increasing awareness of the importance of retrofitting older buildings. Doing so improves energy efficiency, among others.

Electric Vehicle (EV) & Battery Technology Certifications

Candidates pursuing these certifications gain specialized knowledge in, among others:

• Electric drivetrains
• Energy storage systems
• High-voltage safety

You can enroll in training programs offered by:

• Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE)
• U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)
• Private EV technician bootcamps (e.g., Legacy EV, Autobot Academy)

Also, energy storage is the fastest-growing part of renewable energy careers. There were 93,500 workers employed in 2024, a 17% increase from 2019.

IS Certifications for Renewable Energy Planning

Earning the ESRI GIS Fundamentals Certificate is an excellent start. GIS is used for site mapping, wind farm planning, and solar modeling.

As such, it’s useful for environmental science and engineering majors. University of Wisconsin – Stevens Point offers an Energy Policy Certificate.

Zero Carbon, Net-Zero & Climate Certifications

Consider these certifications:

• UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) certificate
• Net Zero Energy ambassador training

If you’re interested in policy or corporate sustainability, you’ll find them useful.

Matching Certifications to Career Paths

Are you wondering how to start a renewable energy career in college? Start by earning the certifications that match your desired career path.

Here are the best certifications for specific career paths.

Solar Energy Careers

• PV Associate
• PVIP
• REP

Wind Energy Careers

• GWO Safety
• AWEA tech fundamentals

Energy Efficiency Careers

• BPI Building Science
• REP

Environmental & Sustainability Analysis Roles

• GIS
• SDG
• REP

Engineering & Technical Pathways

• PVIP, wind safety
• EV battery credentials

How Undergraduates Can Prepare for Renewable Energy Exams

The certification exams can be challenging, especially without good preparation. You can increase your chances of passing these exams by following these steps.

Relevant Coursework

Enroll in relevant courses like:

• Physics
• Electrical technology
• Environmental science

Build your skills by completing courses in engineering foundations, too.

Internships & Hands-On Labs

Gain practical experience in companies like:

• Solar farms
• Utility companies
• Energy startups
• Facilities management offices

Clubs & Campus Organizations

Build your network and learn from peers and professionals by joining:

• Renewable energy clubs
• IEEE sustainability groups
• Engineering student chapters

Affordable Prep Resources

Take advantage of prep resources like:

• NABCEP free exam prep modules
• ESRI free GIS training
• DOE’s online solar and energy efficiency courses

When you prepare, you prepare for success – cliché but true.

Cost, Difficulty & Time Investment Comparison

Renewable Energy Salary Outlook

Salaries vary, but these are usually above the median annual wage for all occupations. Currently, it sits at $49,500, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Positions Students Qualify For

Renewable energy technician certifications can lead to jobs as:

• Solar installer: $44,000–$60,000
• Wind turbine technician: $60,000–$75,000
• Energy efficiency assistant: $40,000–$55,000
• Renewable energy project assistant: $45,000–$65,000

Green energy certifications for students aren’t the be-all and end-all of employability. You must also demonstrate job readiness in other ways. Engage in internships, fieldwork, and practical projects to boost your employability.

Fastest Growing Green Careers

These are:

• Solar PV installers (+42% growth)
• Wind turbine technicians (+50% growth)
• Energy efficiency specialists (consistently growing)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best renewable energy certification for beginners?

NABCEP Photovoltaic Associate (PVA) is considered the gold standard in renewable energy certification.

Can undergraduates get NABCEP certified?

Yes, but only for the PVA and PVIP certifications.

Is the REP certification worth it for students?

Yes, since it boosts employability for entry-level roles.

How do I start a renewable energy career with no experience?

Engage in internships, gain practical experience through projects, and earn entry-level certifications.

Which certifications help students get renewable energy internships?

PVA, REP, BPI, and GWO Safety certifications qualify you for excellent internship opportunities in the industry.

What is the easiest solar certification to earn in college?

NABCEP Photovoltaic Associate (PVA) is considered an easy-to-earn certification.

Conclusion: Start Your Renewable Energy Career Before Graduation

Renewable energy jobs are expanding faster than the supply of trained workers. To get started, choose at least one entry-level certification in this field, and build your credentials from there. Certifications provide skills, credibility, and access to job opportunities that can be the foundation of a successful career.

Begin studying for your first solar, wind, or REP credential today.