Solar energy

The energy which originates from light and heat from the sun, and which can be harnessed and used as a renewable source of energy using different technologies, such as photovoltaics (PV) for electricity production and solar thermal energy (STE) for thermal energy generation.

energy from the sun
sun energy
energy from sunlight
solar power
solar thermal energy
STE
renewable solar

knowledge

cross-sector

Solar energy is an essential knowledge of the following occupations:

Renewable energy engineer: Renewable energy engineers research alternative sources of energy in order to design systems for renewable energy production. They strive to optimise energy production from renewable sources, and reduce production expenses and environmental strain. They design systems which focus on energy sustainability and efficiency.
Renewable energy consultant: Renewable energy consultants advise clients on the advantages and disadvantages of different renewable energy sources. They conduct surveys and interviews to research demand of and opinions on renewable energy, and strive to advise clients on the most advantageous source of renewable energy for their purpose.
Energy systems engineer: Energy systems engineers supervise the energy conversion and distribution processes. They analyse the energy supply and consumption efficiency developing new ways to improve the existing processes, taking into account both the technical and the financial aspects. They also study the environmental impact of energy usage and combine the production of renewable energy in the current power systems.
Energy conservation officer: Energy conservation officers promote the conservation of energy in both residential homes as in businesses. They advise people on ways to reduce their power consumption by enforcing energy efficiency improvements and implementing energy demand management policies.

Solar energy engineer: Solar energy engineers design systems which generate electrical energy from sunlight, such as photovoltaic systems. They design and construct systems which optimise the energy output from solar power, and the sustainability of the production process of solar systems.
Solar power plant operator: Solar power plant operators operate and maintain equipment which produce electrical energy from solar power. They monitor measuring equipment to ensure the safety of operations, and that the production needs are met. They also react to system problems, and repair faults.
Solar energy technician: Solar energy technicians install and maintain systems that collect solar energy. They prepare the necessary fixtures, often on roofs, install solar panels, and plug them into an electronic system including an inverter to connect the solar energy systems to the electricity lines.
Energy analyst: Energy analysts evaluate the consumption of energy in buidings owned by consumers and businesses. By analysing existing energy systems, they recommend cost-effective alternatives. Energy analysts suggest efficiency improvements, make business analyses and participate in the development of policies concerning the use of traditional fuels, transportation, and other factors relating to energy consumption.
Solar energy sales consultant: Solar energy sales consultants provide advice on solar energy for domestic or industrial purposes, and aim to promote the use of solar energy as an alternative and more sustainable source of energy. They communicate with prospective clients, and attend networking events, to ensure increased sales of solar energy products.
Renewable energy sales representative: Renewable energy sales representatives assess clients’ energy supply needs, and attempt to secure sales of renewable energy methods. They promote renewable energy suppliers and the use of renewable energy products, and liaise with consumers to increase sales.

Solar energy is optional for these occupations. This means knowing this knowledge may be an asset for career advancement if you are in one of these occupations.

Domestic energy assessor: Domestic energy assessors advise individuals on energy supply for their homes. They assess the individual’s needs and recommend the appropriate source of energy and supplier, attempting to secure energy sales. They also advise on economic and environmental advantages of types of energy, and create energy plans compliant with regulations and the technical requirements and conditions of the residence.
Electricity and energy vocational teacher: Electricity and energy vocational teachers instruct students in their specialised field of study, electricity and energy, which is predominantly practical in nature. They provide theoretical instruction in service of the practical skills and techniques the students must subsequently master for a electricity and energy-related profession. Electricity and energy vocational teachers monitor the students’ progress, assist individually when necessary, and evaluate their knowledge and performance on the subject of electricity and energy through assignments, tests and examinations.
Energy engineer: Energy engineers design new, efficient and clean ways to produce, transform, and distribute energy to improve environmental sustainability and energy efficiency. They extract energy through natural resources, such as oil or gas, or renewable and sustainable sources, such as wind or solar power. 
Energy assessor: Energy assessors determine the energy performance of buildings. They create an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) which indicates what the estimated energy consumption of a property is. Furthermore they give advice on how to improve energy conservation.
Civil engineer: Civil engineers design, plan, and develop technical and engineering specifications for infrastructure and construction projects. They apply engineering knowledge in a vast array of projects, from the construction of infrastructure for transportation, housing projects, and luxury buildings, to the construction of natural sites. They design plans that seek to optimise materials and integrate specifications and resource allocation within the time constraints.
Energy consultant: Energy consultants advise clients on the advantages and disadvantages of different energy sources. They help clients to understand energy tariffs and try to reduce their energy consumption and carbon footprint by using energy efficient products and methods.

References

1. Solar energy – ESCO