Growing solar demand drives nationwide expansion of specialist electrician training
One of New Zealand's largest private training providers is accelerating the rollout of its specialist solar training courses, expanding from Auckland and Christchurch into Hamilton, Tauranga, Whakatāne, Napier and Dunedin.
The move comes amid rapid growth in New Zealand’s grid-connected solar capacity and increasing national focus on renewable energy. Since 2023, 247 MW of new grid-connected solar has come online, with total capacity forecast to more than triple to 1,031 MW by 2028.¹
The expansion also comes as new requirements from the EWRB require electricians installing grid connected solar and battery systems to hold mains parallel endorsement from the 1st of September 2026.
Skills Trades Training Director Di Lithgow says the combination of rapid growth in solar generation, and new regulatory requirements has increased demand for specialist training.
“New Zealand's renewable energy ambitions rely on having enough skilled electricians to deliver them safely and professionally,” says Lithgow.
“Solar installations are becoming increasingly common across the country, but electricians outside our main centres have often needed to travel to Auckland or Christchurch to gain the qualifications that will soon be required. By expanding into five more regions, we're making it easier for electricians to build these specialist skills without spending extended periods away from work and whānau.”
Electricians seeking endorsement to carry out prescribed electrical work on systems that generate electricity in parallel with the mains supply can complete two micro-credentials: Grid-connected PV Systems, Design and Install (Level 4) and Grid-connected Battery Storage Systems, Design and Install (Level 4).
Together, the programmes comprise about 152 hours of online learning with tutor drop-in support and two three-day practical block courses.
Lithgow says the programmes are designed to build genuine capability, not simply satisfy a compliance requirement.
“This programme goes well beyond an introduction to solar. Participants complete substantial online learning alongside practical assessment, where they demonstrate they can take a real project brief and deliver a safe, compliant installation. When they finish, they have the confidence and competence to install solar systems to a high professional standard.”
She says the practical component gives electricians the technical knowledge they need on the job.
“Participants leave understanding not only how to install a system safely, but why particular equipment is selected, how to interpret technical ratings, and how to choose the right equipment for each installation. That's the knowledge that protects both installers and customers.”
Course information is available at skillstrades.co.nz.
ENDS
¹ Electricity Authority, Grid-connected solar is having its time in the sun, 9 February 2026.
About Skills Trades Training
Skills Trades Training is New Zealand's specialist provider of training for the electrical, plumbing, gasfitting, drainlaying and electrotechnology industries. Formed through the consolidation of Etco, E-tec and ICE, Skills Trades Training operates campuses from Auckland to Dunedin, delivering practical, industry-led education that supports apprentices, qualified tradespeople and employers.