IBT Residential is GRID’s established training path for residential solar installation, offered in two formats: IBT 200, our flagship 200-hour program, and IBT 120, a 120-hour version of the same core curriculum. Hands-on training happens in the lab and, for IBT 200, on real residential rooftops. Training is offered at no cost, with no experience required, and many regions also pay a stipend while you train.
120 / 200
Hours, depending on program (IBT 120 or IBT 200)
3-8 wks
Typical length of IBT 200
$0
No cost to eligible participants
Paid
Stipend in many regions
3+
Certs: IBT, OSHA-10, CPR/First Aid
12
Participants per cohort, capped
About IBT Residential
Classroom on the roof
Formalized classroom sessions paired with hands-on training labs and, for IBT 200, real installations on homes and community buildings.
One program, two lengths
IBT 120 uses the same core curriculum as IBT 200. The difference is that IBT 200 adds roughly 80 hours of real-world installation experience that IBT 120 doesn’t include.
Built to a national standard
Curriculum is aligned to the NABCEP PV Installer Specialist Job Task Analysis and GRID is recognized as a NABCEP registered training provider. GRID’s Central Valley and Inland Empire sites are also IREC Accredited Training Providers for IBT 200.
Connects to employers
Trainees get direct connections to employers who are hiring, including through solar showcases and job fairs.
Full curriculum, cost details, and post-graduate support live on the main IBT page, and apply across every offering.
Who It's For
IBT Residential is built for people with no construction or electrical background, including people changing careers and people who have been impacted by the criminal justice system.
18 years of age or older
Basic English comprehension, including the ability to follow spoken safety instructions. We train in Spanish in Puerto Rico.
Authorization to work in the U.S.
Ability to do physical work: standing for long periods, bending, lifting up to 50 pounds, and working outdoors, including on rooftops. Reasonable accommodations are available.
Motivated to start a career in the solar industry
Find a program
Pick the region closest to you to see the program and request information. Cohorts run throughout the year; a member of the regional training team will follow up with current start dates and next steps.
Pick the program closest to you and request information. A member of the regional training team will follow up with current dates and next steps.