Training programmes for Installers
Updated: 14.02.2019
Training programmes for RES installers are mentioned in the Energy Act (§ 359 EZ-1) and are specifically regulated by the provisions in RS 20/2013 that is set by the Minister responsible for energy matters in agreement with the Minister responsible for environmental affairs. The document foresees the required training and its content for installers and the examination process that potential candidates need to follow. If the candidate has been successful in both theoretical and practical parts of the examination he is entitled to receive a certificate valid for 10 years (§ 8, 9 and 10 RS 20/2013).
According to the Ministry of Education there are currently no specific educational programmes for RES installers. It is however a part of the standard curriculum for electricians/installers in the subject with the title “Renewable Energy Sources”, where students learn about new technologies in the fields of RES installations.
Installers who wish to specialize as installers for RES facilities can apply for a course and specialize as any of the following: biomass, PV or heat pump installer. So far only few educational institutions offer these courses as an individual programme – an example is the School Center Velenje (a pioneer in the field), while some additional courses are organised in partnership with the School Center Velenje on other venues.
The training course is completed with an exam, which, if passed, is the basis to obtain a valid documentation of competency as a RES installer. Currently, the programme is an integral part of all electricians/installers courses.
Exam and course organisers are obliged to publish on their website information on training programmes and a list of installers, who have a valid certificate of professional competence. They are also obliged to report to the ministry responsible for energy each year by March 31 on the performance of the trainees in the past year (§ 11 RS 20/2013, § 359 EZ-1).