An electrical licence is a prerequisite for enrolment in this course. Electrical apprentices may enrol in this course, however they will need to wait till they are issued their unrestricted licence before being awarded a Statement of Attainment OR show they have completed the prerequisite Units of Competency in their studies already:

• UEEEL0039 – Design, install and verify compliance and functionality of general electrical installations
• UEEEL0012 – Install low voltage wiring, appliances, switchgear and associated accessories

Alternatively please see below for a run down on all prerequisites for the SAPS course

• UEERE0055 - No Prerequisite
• UEERE0063 - Prerequisite: UEEL0039 (this unit is a core unit in Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician Qualification and can be located in the clients USI transcript
• UEERE0078 - Prerequisite: UEEL0012 (a team members Unrestricted electrical licence can supersede this unit as it is another core Cert 3 unit)
• UEERE0079 - Prerequisites: UEEL0039 (as discussed above) UEERE0055 (this will be completed in this course) UEERE0078 (this will be completed in this course)
• UEERE0081 - Prerequisite: UEEEL0012 (same as above) UEERE0055 (will be completed in this course)

The SAPS Design and Install Course provides a comprehensive foundation in stand-alone power system design and installation. This course aligns with Australian standards and includes essential, nationally accredited units of competency. Through a blend of online theory and practical training, students gain the skills required to design, install, and maintain off-grid power systems, covering photovoltaic (PV) systems, power conversion equipment, and battery storage.

Units of Competency Covered

1. UEERE0055 - Conduct Site Survey for Off-Grid Photovoltaic/Generating Set Systems
Gain the skills to conduct comprehensive site assessments, evaluating location-specific requirements for off-grid systems, and ensuring optimal system placement and performance.

2. UEERE0063 - Design Off-Grid Photovoltaic/Generating Set Systems
Develop expertise in designing off-grid power systems tailored to various client needs, covering energy auditing, load analysis, and component selection to create efficient and reliable SAPS solutions.

3. UEERE0079 - Install Off-Grid Power Conversion Equipment to Electrical Installation
Learn the technical skills necessary to install and connect power conversion equipment safely within electrical installations, ensuring adherence to safety and regulatory standards.

4. UEERE0081 - Install Photovoltaic Systems to Power Conversion Equipment
Master the processes of installing photovoltaic modules and connecting them to power conversion equipment, following Australian standards for PV array installation.

5. UEERE0078 - Install Battery Storage to Power Conversion Equipment
Acquire hands-on skills in installing and integrating battery storage systems, focusing on safety, energy management, and system performance in SAPS configurations

This nationally recognised course is designed for licensed electricians, electrical engineers and solar enthusiasts who want to gain skills in the design and installation of Stand-alone power systems. This course will also provide electrical tradesmen and engineers with the qualifications allowing them to obtain accreditation from Solar Accreditation Australia (SAA) granting access to incentives offered by the Federal Government for solar panel installations

• 100% Online, Self Paced
• 6 months to complete can be completed sooner
• Aligned with SAA Accreditation for your Solar Accreditation needs

The course will provide you with the skills and knowledge in Stand Alone Power systems in order for you to analyse information, create bespoke solutions for clients and communicate these solutions to others. 

Completing the Stand Alone Power Systems (SAPS) Design and Install Course opens up a range of career opportunities, particularly as the demand for renewable energy and off-grid solutions grows. Graduates are well-positioned to pursue roles and projects in both residential and commercial sectors.

1. Stand-Alone Power Systems Designer and Installer

• Role: Design and install off-grid systems for clients in rural areas, remote communities, or industries where grid access is limited.
• Opportunity: Many clients seek SAPS solutions for energy independence, especially in agriculture, tourism, and mining sectors.

2. Renewable Energy Consultant

• Role: Work as a consultant advising on off-grid system design, compliance, and implementation.
• Opportunity: Renewable energy consultants with SAPS expertise can advise businesses and councils on sustainable energy solutions, leading to environmental and cost benefits.

3. Solar Accreditation and Compliance Officer

• Role: Focus on compliance, auditing, and advising on Australian standards and industry regulations for SAPS and off-grid solutions.
• Opportunity: As a compliance officer, you would work closely with government bodies, councils, and private firms to ensure standards and safety in renewable energy projects.

4. Trainer or Educator in Renewable Energy

• Role: Deliver training and educational programs for upcoming electricians or renewable energy students in SAPS design and installation.
• Opportunity: With experience, you could work with educational institutions or Registered Training Organizations (RTOs) to help train the next generation of off-grid installers.

5. Off-Grid Maintenance Technician

• Role: Specialize in the maintenance and troubleshooting of SAPS installations, ensuring their ongoing reliability and efficiency.
• Opportunity: As off-grid systems become more prevalent, there's a growing need for skilled technicians who can provide ongoing maintenance and support.

To continue building expertise in renewable energy and related fields, graduates may pursue the following courses or certifications:

1. Advanced Battery Storage Design and Installation

• Expand your skills in battery storage technology, focusing on larger systems or specialized applications like commercial and industrial storage.

2. Grid-Connected PV Systems and Battery Storage

• Broaden your scope by studying grid-connected PV systems, which complement off-grid expertise. This can lead to Clean Energy Council (CEC) accreditation in both grid-connected and stand-alone systems.

3. Renewable Energy Engineering (Higher Education)

• Pursue a diploma or degree in renewable energy engineering for an in-depth understanding of energy systems, including grid-connected and off-grid technologies.

4. Energy Auditing and Sustainability Management

• Courses in energy auditing and sustainability management can equip you to assess energy needs and recommend sustainable practices, benefiting both businesses and communities.

5. Solar Project Management Certification

• Certification in project management with a focus on solar installations will allow you to take on supervisory or managerial roles in large-scale renewable energy projects.

With these career pathways and further study options, this course not only equips students for immediate roles in SAPS but also lays the groundwork for a lifelong career in renewable energy and sustainability.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Who is eligible to enrol in the SAPS Design and Install Course?

• This course is designed for licensed electricians and electrical apprentices who are interested in specialising in stand-alone power systems. Electrical apprentices can enrol, but they must obtain their unrestricted license before receiving a Statement of Attainment.

2. Do I need prior experience in solar or battery systems?

• Prior experience in grid-connected PV or battery systems is not mandatory but can be beneficial. If you lack this experience, you may need to complete the  GC PV Systems Battery Storage Design and Install Course

3. What are the main components of the course?

• The course consists of two parts: a self-paced online theory component with tutor support, and 2 practical installs which can be done on worksite's of your choosing or aligned to any upcoming jobs 

4. What units of competency are covered in this course?

• The course includes the following nationally accredited units of competency:

5. How long does it take to complete the course?

• The course is nominally 20 hours, including online theory, assessments, and the practical component. Students typically complete it within 6 months, although individual progress may vary.

6. What practical skills will I gain from this course?

• You will gain hands-on skills in conducting site surveys, designing off-grid systems, installing power conversion equipment, photovoltaic modules, and battery storage systems, all while adhering to Australian safety and compliance standards.

7. What qualifications will I receive after completing the course?

• Upon successful completion, you will receive a Statement of Attainment covering the course’s units of competency. This qualifies you to apply for provisional accreditation with Solar Accreditation Australia (SAA) in SAPS Design and Installation.

8. What further career opportunities does this course provide?

• Graduates can pursue roles such as SAPS Designer and Installer, Renewable Energy Consultant, Solar Accreditation and Compliance Officer, Off-Grid Maintenance Technician, or even become a Trainer in renewable energy. This course also lays the groundwork for further study in renewable energy engineering, advanced battery storage, and solar project management.

9. What if I need more time to complete the course?

• The course is valid for 6 months. If you need more time, extensions are available. Head to our Student Services menu to apply for an extension.

10. Can I get a refund if I decide to cancel my enrolment?

• Staysafe offers a refund within 10 days of payment if the course has not been accessed, with some conditions. Once coursework is submitted, refunds are no longer available. Refer to the Course Information and Policies document for detailed cancellation and refund policies.

11. Are there further study options after this course?

• Yes, graduates can continue studying advanced topics such as grid-connected PV systems, advanced battery storage, renewable energy engineering, and solar project management.

If you have any other questions or need assistance with prerequisites, please feel free to contact us.

Practical Evidence for Installing Off-Grid Power Conversion Equipment

Purpose: Demonstrate competence in installing off-grid power conversion equipment connected to an electrical installation.

Overview

This practical task requires you to install off-grid power conversion equipment (PCE) and verify its operation as part of a complete stand-alone power system.
You may complete the task on a live worksite or in a simulated training environment under supervision.
All evidence collected will be reviewed by your trainer.

What You’ll Need to Do

1. Record project details – site, date, start/finish times, job description, and people involved.
2. Complete a Job Safety Analysis (JSA) including risks such as electrical shock, working at heights, sun exposure, ceiling spaces, and remote work.
3. List the tools and equipment you’ll use, checking their condition.
4. Record the inverter manufacturer, model, and associated components (isolators, switchboards, etc.).
5. Provide a simple system design sketch or photo showing panel layout, inverter, batteries, genset, and switchboard.
6. Take photos of the installation process, including: Inverter location (before and after install) AC cabling Switchboard connection and labelling
7. Perform and record electrical testing and verification (insulation resistance, polarity, earth continuity, etc.).
8. Provide evidence of system documentation handed to the owner (manuals, datasheets, compliance documentation).
9. If applicable, include proof of STC application participation.
   

Evidence to Upload

• Photos of installation steps and test results
• Completed JSA
• System design or layout diagram
• Copy of inverter datasheet and installation manual
• System documentation provided to client