As South Africa battles an electricity crisis, alternative sources of power, like solar panels, have "become a necessity" which has created a demand.
South Africa has a large and growing shortage of electricians and solar installers, meaning there are not enough qualified people to attend to the demand.
Electricity experts have stated that while loadshedding is undeniably devastating, it has helped to realise our country's need for artisan training and upskilling.
This has created a gap for job creation and subsequent employment. Skills training in the field of electrical engineering and becoming solar panel installers can blossom into a source of income for the unemployed.
This shortage arose from the education system that traditionally focuses on tertiary education, without pushing trade artisan sectors as much.
In South Africa, discussions about higher education frequently centre universities. However, Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges play a significant role in the county’s higher education system.
While universities demand a matric pass to earn a bachelor's degree, TVET colleges admit students who have completed Grades 9, 10, 11, or 12, with some colleges offering up to 300 different courses.
These include learnerships, the NQF Full Time, NATED/Report 191, and the National Certificate (Vocational). A total of 50 public TVET colleges are currently registered and spread out around the nation.
DeVilliers Botha, Management Committee of the South African Photovoltaic Industry Association [SAPVIA), says that electricians and solar installers differ, because it's a different skill set.
We skill people on the principles of solar. Solar power is direct current (DC). Electrician artisans are qualified on AC only. They did not traditionally have training on DC. That's why we created the PV Green Card programme or a short course for electricians to upskill themselves on the DC aspects of these systems.
So, it's an addition but it's not a formal qualification... it does add to that electrician qualification but you'll also need to get additional compliance status once registered.
Another in-demand job is becoming an elevator technician, says the owner of EMI Elevators. To do so:
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You'll need an N2 qualification to get started as an apprentice.
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Go to the merSETA website and fill out a special application form to become an apprentice.
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If you become an apprentice with a company, you'll need to spend five years in the field to be classified as "competent".
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Then, you'll be moderated with a practical test to be certified as "trade-ready."
On becoming a solar installer, Botha says, those interested can find more information online at sapvia.co.za, pvgreencard.co.za or by simply Googling TVET colleges in South Africa for solar-specific training.
