Energy Efficiency Tax Credits and Improved Solar Products are Influencing Homeowners and Businesses to Upgrade to Solar and Other Alternative Energy Sources.
If you are a building contractor or an individual looking for a new career, consider adding solar technology to your list of abilities. There are many training opportunities which do not involve large expenditures of time or money. Some training is even provided on-the- job by solar product providers.
If you have not had much exposure to the many solar products available, attending a trade show is a quick way to gain knowledge and network job possibilities. Visiting solar installations at schools, colleges, universities, and public buildings is another way to learn about alternative energy technology applications.
TRAINING FOR SOLAR ENERGY JOBS
Solarenergy.org 
- Solar training opportunities.
Community College Times - Green workforce training.
EERE - Opportunities for continuing education and training in renewable and alternative energy.
HVAC training in Illinois
Illinois Solar Energy Association: workshop events.
GLREA - Midwest Solar Energy Technical Training Programs.
Solar Energy International learning opportunities.
Boots on the Roof - Training for the solar energy industry.
Windindustry.org - Finding training in renewable energy.
FINDING JOBS IN THE SOLAR INDUSTRY
Illinois solar energy businesses guide.
Illinoisworknet.com article on green jobs (archived).
Solar Energy International solar jobs.
Illinois workNet Career Builder Jobs.
Illinois workNet Jobs Search.
ARTICLES OF INTEREST
Government guidelines on tax credits for energy efficiency and product rebates.
Act on Energy guidelines on Small Business Pilot Program for energy efficiency incentives.
Organicgreenandnaturral.com - ROI of largest Chicago rooftop solar installation.
New wafer technology reduces price of solar PV cells.
ISU Center for Renewable Energy.
UIUC 2007 Solar Decathlon solar home.
UIUC 2009 Solar Decathlon.
Solar Energy International solar resources.
Greenrightnow.com story from a solar installer.
Allbusiness.com: Chicago’s Wright Community College installs solar.
TRADE SHOWS
ASES Conference Trade Show
Midwest Renewable Energy Association Energy Fair