Renewable Energy Technology
Students in the Renewable Energy program acquire hands-on skills in installing, operating, repairing, and replacing related equipment. The program prepares you to pursue careers in the renewable energy field through coursework focused on solar and wind energy production and usage.
The AAS degree and related job experience will allow you to sit for the solar PV installer exam (offered by NABCEP) and the LEED AP exam (provided by the Green Building Council).
Renewable energy technicians install and maintain sustainable energy systems. These systems rely on energy from wind, geothermal, biofuels, and solar sources rather than traditional fossil fuels like gas and oil. Renewable energy technicians work in various locations, such as:
- Homes
- Commercial buildings
- Construction sites
- New turbine installation locations
- Other environments that have renewable energy installations and maintenance needs
What’s the Job Outlook for Renewable Energy Technicians?
Employment of solar photovoltaic installers is expected to grow by 22% from 2022 to 2032, significantly faster than the average for all occupations.
Bureau of Labor Statistics, USDO:, OOH, Solar Voltaic Installers, June 2024
Recommended course sequencing
Semester 1 Total: 14 Credits
- RET 101 - Renewable Energy Principles 3 Credit(s)
- SED 101 - Principles of Sustainability 3 Credit(s)
- EE 101 - Survey of Electrical and Electronics Technology 4 Credit(s)
- EE 107 - Mathematics for Electrical/Electronics I 4 Credit(s)
Semester 2 Total: 17 Credits
- EE 102 - Circuit Analysis 4 Credit(s)
- EE 115 - Mathematics for Electrical/Electronics II 4 Credit(s)
- ENG 119 - English I 3 Credit(s)
- RET 143 - Wind Power and Hydropower 3 Credit(s)
- RET 144 - Solar Power 3 Credit(s)
Semester 3 Total: 15 Credits
- EE 103 - Residential Wiring 3 Credit(s)
- EE 111 - Solid State Fundamentals 4 Credit(s)
- PHY 115 - Fundamentals of Physics 4 Credit(s)
- RET 210 - Advanced Photovoltaic Concepts and Commercial Applications 4 Credit(s)
Semester 4 Total: 17 Credits
- PS 101 - American Government 3 Credit(s)
- FM 106 - Safety and Support Services 3 Credit(s)
- MCT 203 - Electrical Machinery and Controls 3 Credit(s)
- PHY 235 - General Physics I 4 Credit(s)
- Elective: Technical: CAD 101 OR CT 203 4 Credit(s)
Semester 1 Total: 14 Credits
- RET 101 - Renewable Energy Principles 3 Credit(s)
- SED 101 - Principles of Sustainability 3 Credit(s)
- EE 101 - Survey of Electrical and Electronics Technology 4 Credit(s)
- EE 107 - Mathematics for Electrical/Electronics I 4 Credit(s)
Semester 2 Total: 14 Credits
- EE 102 - Circuit Analysis 4 Credit(s)
- EE 115 - Mathematics for Electrical/Electronics II 4 Credit(s)
- RET 143 - Wind Power and Hydropower 3 Credit(s)
- RET 144 - Solar Power 3 Credit(s)
Semester 3 Total: 11 Credits
- EE 103 - Residential Wiring 3 Credit(s)
- EE 111 - Solid State Fundamentals 4 Credit(s)
- RET 210 - Advanced Photovoltaic Concepts and Commercial Applications 4 Credit(s)
Where is WCCCD’s Renewable Energy Technology Program Offered?
The Renewable Energy Technology program is offered at our Ted Scott Campus. As a WCCCD student, you can take courses, use facilities, and get involved at any of our six locations.
It is the policy of WCCCD that no person, based on race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, height, weight, marital status, disability, or political affiliation or belief, shall be discriminated against, excluded from participation in, denied the benefits of, or otherwise be subjected to discrimination in employment or in any program or activity for which it is responsible or for which it receives financial assistance from the U.S. Department of Education.
