Why Study/Key Benefits

• Develop specialist knowledge of grid-connected solar photovoltaic (PV) systems for residential and commercial applications.

• Learn the operating theory and safety requirements needed to understand PV system design, specification and sales.

• Build the ability to interpret fault-finding results supplied by electrical workers during installation and maintenance.

• Gain practical familiarity with solar-system components through a simulated-worksite session.

• Complete flexible online preparation before attending the three-day practical course.

• The course is a prerequisite for WITT’s Grid-connected Battery Storage Systems: Design Only course and supports progression into further solar-system design training.

• WITT states that its design-only solar courses have endorsement from the Sustainable Energy Association of New Zealand (SEANZ).

Programme Structure and Subjects/Topics

The published course structure includes:

• Online pre-course learning – approximately 96 hours, completed flexibly at the participant's own pace with tutor support.

• Practical campus training – 24 hours over three days.

• Familiarisation with grid-connected PV system components.

• Practical exposure to system components in a simulated worksite environment.

• Testing of ELV components.

• Demonstration of commissioning and fault-finding by a licensed electrician.

• Understanding the operating theory and safety requirements of grid-connected PV systems.

• Understanding the design, specification and sales considerations for residential and commercial PV installations.

• Interpreting fault-finding results provided by electrical workers.

Disciplines/Specialisations

The course is focused on:

• Solar energy and renewable energy systems.

• Grid-connected photovoltaic (GCPV) system design.

• Electrical engineering and electrical technology.

• Solar-system specification and technical sales.

• PV system safety and fault-finding interpretation.

Programme Highlights

• A short, industry-focused course for people who already have electrical knowledge.

• Flexible online preparation with tutor support.

• Three days of practical, face-to-face training in New Plymouth.

• Practical familiarisation with PV system components and ELV testing.

• A licensed electrician demonstrates commissioning and fault-finding.

• SEANZ endorsement is stated by WITT for its design-only solar courses.

• Completion is recognised through a WITT certificate of completion, rather than an NZQA qualification.

• The course is a prerequisite for WITT's Grid-connected Battery Storage Systems: Design Only course.

Career Outcomes

This course may help people who already work in, or have relevant experience in, electrical and renewable-energy fields to strengthen their knowledge of grid-connected PV system design.

Potential areas where the learning may be relevant include:

• Solar PV system design support.

• Technical solar sales and specification.

• Renewable-energy project support.

• Electrical engineering and technical services.

• PV system fault-finding interpretation and maintenance support.

Latest Updates/Special Requirements

• The current WITT page lists the 2027 intake dates from February to November.

• The current published international fee is NZD $1,310, plus the textbook charge.

• Minimum participant numbers apply before a course is confirmed.

• Participants must complete the online learning and attend the practical training.

• Only licensed electricians may carry out the live electrical testing and work specified by WITT.

• WITT states that withdrawals made more than 15 working days after online login details are issued will incur the full course fee, including the textbook fee.

• If a participant requests a transfer to a different practical-course date, or is transferred because they have not completed the required online modules, WITT may charge an additional NZD $300.

• Non-attendance on the course date incurs the full course fee. These cancellation charges are non-transferable.

 

International Student Visa Requirements

This course lasts three days on campus, with online preparation completed before attendance. It is therefore important to distinguish the visa rules for short courses from those for longer full-time qualifications.

• Immigration New Zealand states that people holding a visitor visa, work visa or eligible NZeTA may study for up to three months in a 12-month period, subject to their visa conditions.

• A visitor visa normally permits study for up to three months. It does not permit employment in New Zealand.

• For a course of three months or less, Immigration New Zealand explains that an offer of place and student visa are generally not required for eligible short courses approved or exempted by NZQA. However, WITT states that this particular design-only course is not NZQA-registered. Applicants should therefore ask WITT and Immigration New Zealand to confirm the appropriate visa route for this exact course before travelling.

• If a student intends to study in New Zealand for more than three months, a student visa is generally required.

For reference, the general Fee Paying Student Visa has the following published conditions, but it should not be assumed that this short course qualifies for that visa:

• Visa cost: from NZD $850.

• Processing time: 80% within seven weeks.

• Maximum stay: up to four years, depending on the course and visa conditions.

• Applicants need an offer of place from an approved education provider, sufficient funds for tuition and living costs, acceptable medical and travel insurance, good health and character, a genuine reason for study, and evidence that they can leave New Zealand at the end of their stay.

• Work rights of up to 25 hours per week and full-time work during scheduled holidays apply only where the visa conditions permit.

Living-funds guidance for applicants who do need a student visa:

• For tertiary or other non-compulsory study lasting less than one year, Immigration New Zealand's published benchmark is NZD $1,667 per month.

• Prepaid accommodation may be deducted in accordance with Immigration New Zealand's rules.

• Applicants may need to show evidence of the source and availability of their funds.