Fundación Chile, in conjunction with the University of Tarapacá, is developing the project “Labor Competency Accreditation System for Photovoltaic Solar System Installers for the Tarapacá Region,” which is funded by the Innovation and Competitiveness Fund of the Regional Government of Tarapacá.

The objective of this project was to accredit a labor competency system for photovoltaic installers, which currently provides labor competency profiles for electrical technicians who wish to serve as Photovoltaic Installers.

Following the methodology, these profiles are validated by more than ten Chilean and international PV panel provider companies.

In May 2013, the first “Train the Trainers” course was held for 20 instructors at the Esmeralda campus of the University of Tarapacá. The classes were taught by West Valley College, an institution with extensive training experience in the United States.

To conclude the project activities, between March 11 and 14, 2014, at the University of Tarapacá, Iquique campus, the 2013 instructors will train 20 Electrical Technicians who apply via email, providing proof of their technical qualifications and SEC certification. This course will have theoretical and practical components. The practical component will be conducted on a grid-connected photovoltaic system, using two modular dismountable kits and ad hoc measuring instruments.

The top-performing students will have the option to participate in real installations during April 2014. These will take place within the framework of the “Iluminemos el Altiplano” initiative led by Desafío Levantemos Chile and will be supervised by a specialist instructor. This will strengthen and solidify the knowledge and skills acquired during the course.

PV Installation at Altiplano Schools:

Desafío Levantemos Chile, together with Fundación Chile, is promoting the “Iluminemos el Altiplano” initiative, which will install solar photovoltaic systems in 12 selected schools in the altiplano. The goal is to provide energy for the operation of computers with satellite internet, which currently face limited energy resources. Additionally, this initiative seeks to hold workshops to bring technology closer to the entire community.

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