GSES – Solar Awareness for Tradespeople

Solar power systems are now a common feature on homes, businesses, and construction sites across Australia. As more buildings incorporate rooftop solar and battery storage systems, it is increasingly important for tradespeople to understand the hazards these systems can present and how to work around them safely.

The Solar Safety Awareness for Tradespeople course is designed for workers with little to no prior solar experience and is ideal for new worker and site inductions. This practical two-hour course provides an introduction to solar power systems and the key safety considerations when working on sites where solar and energy storage equipment are installed.

Participants will learn how to identify common hazards associated with solar power systems, recognise potentially unsafe or non-compliant installations, and understand when to escalate concerns and request a solar inspection. The course references relevant AS/NZS safety requirements and covers solar modules, inverters, protection devices, cabling, earthing, signage, labelling, and energy storage systems. Students will also have access to the comprehensive Solar Awareness for Tradespeople informational report for further learning.

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Learning outcomes

Here is a quick snapshot of the practical takeaways this course covers:

• Define microgrids and understand their components, applications, and classifications
• Understand the role of microgrids within various electricity networks
• Explain the benefits and drawbacks of microgrids in different scenarios, and identify situations where microgrids are the best option
• Understand the various uses of microgrids, including load control, demand management, grid stability, and bushfire resilience
• Identify the regulatory framework relevant to microgrids, including jurisdictional approvals, standards, and electricity network requirements and restrictions