Alternative Energy Sources
Over the past years, BC has risen and continues to rise to the challenge of combating climate change. BC is becoming increasingly conscious of its consumption and carbon footprint. They are rapidly switching to clean, green energy sources through wind, solar, and hydrogen while traditional energy sources diminish.
BC is one of the largest producers of renewable energy in Canada. Therefore, the need for highly trained, specialized skilled trade workers is crucial and presents many opportunities.
Many of these specialized skills are a viable option for Red Seal-certified electricians who want to expand their knowledge and skill set by taking additional solar, wind, and hydrogen-certified training.
Solar Power is the conversion of sunlight into electricity via solar cells within a solar panel or module. It reduces greenhouse gas emissions, requires no fuel, makes no noise, and requires minimal maintenance.
The growth in the market for Solar Photovoltaic (PV) installations and the need for safe and effective installations of PV systems have rapidly increased the requirement for competent system installation personnel.
The E2inc offers a PV solar program to Red Seal-certified construction electricians through employers who are active or interested in the solar power market. The training is open to construction electricians who hold a Red Seal certificate.
They provide a 24-hour course consisting of two days of in-class theory and one day on installation. Completing the PV solar training program offers the construction electrician quality knowledge and skills for this high-demand line of work.
British Columbia has some of Canada’s most robust and consistent wind regimes, with many excellent locations for wind farms and harnessing wind power. Those who already have their electrical Red Seal certification must complete a short course to become certified in wind turbine maintenance.
Once certified, a wind turbine maintenance technician can find employment in wind turbine maintenance, wind farm construction, turbine manufacturing, or blade inspection and repair. They can also specialize in inspecting or repairing wind turbine electrical, mechanical, and hydraulic systems.
According to the Government of BC, hydrogen will be necessary for BC to achieve net zero by 2050. Hydrogen plays a key role in reducing emissions across a wide range of sectors in BC, including medium and heavy-duty transportation, industry, and refining, displacing natural gas and diesel used for electrical generation in remote communities.
BC is home to plenty of natural gas reserves and geological carbon storage capacity necessary for producing low-carbon hydrogen from natural gas. With BC’s plan to become a leading hydrogen economy, these job opportunities have increased substantially in this sector throughout the province.
As Canadians shift away from fossil fuels and prepare for the future, what better time to expand your skill set and increase your knowledge about the growing green jobs and opportunities through renewable, sustainable energy? Solar, Wind, Hydrogen… what powers YOU?
Written by: Savannah Davis, ClearWater Communications Co.