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Global Standards for Solar Workforce Now Live

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Global Solar Council and GWO Launch New Training Framework.

New training standards provide a unified, recognised approach to building the skilled and safe global solar workforce necessary to reach 2030 targets. 

London/Copenhagen, 2 September 2025 – Global Solar Council (GSC) and GWO have announced the launch of the Global Solar Training Standards — a new, internationally recognised training framework developed to help the solar sector scale its workforce rapidly and safely.

As the global energy transition accelerates, utility-scale solar PV is expected to deliver more than 50 percent of the 11 terawatts of renewable capacity needed by 2030. That growth requires a massive expansion of trained, job-ready technicians — but today, the lack of standardised training makes it difficult for employers to hire confidently, ensure safety, and maintain consistent quality across projects.

The new Global Solar Training Standards address this challenge. Developed using GWO’s proven training methodology — already adopted by over 650 certified centres in 55 countries — the framework introduces standardised modules for installation and maintenance technicians working on commercial and utility-scale solar PV projects.

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“By combining GWO’s deep expertise in renewables training development with Global Solar Council’s international network of solar employers and industry leaders, we are delivering the first truly global solution for technician training in solar,” said Sonia Dunlop – CEO of GSC . “These standards are built by the industry, for the industry — and they come at exactly the right time.” 

Piloted earlier this year in Germany, the United States, and the United Kingdom, the Global Solar Training Standards are now available for delivery by GWO-certified training providers. The framework includes clearly defined learning objectives, risk mitigation strategies, and practical skills to help employers improve safety, reduce costs, and scale faster.

The standards are now available for implementation. Businesses, EPCs, and asset owners looking to align with the framework can partner with GWO-certified training providers to upskill their workforce. 

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"We are delighted to bring Global Solar Training Standards to the market. This is a first step towards achieving the kinds of benefits experienced by employers in wind over the last decade. Standardised training, deployed globally by our network of certified training providers can guarantee access to industry-approved training for technician workforces, while reducing duplication for their employers" said Jakob Lau Holst, CEO of GWO. 

The initiative is guided by the Solar Training Committee, which brings together leading voices from across the solar industry to ensure the framework reflects employer needs, regional compliance realities, and real-world working conditions. 

More than just a training curriculum, the Global Solar Training Standards represent a new phase of professionalisation for solar energy — one that will help elevate the industry, empower its workforce, and accelerate progress toward global climate goals.

To learn more or download the standards, visit: https://www.globalwindsafety.org/trainingstandards/solar 

For inquiries:

Naomi Kelechi Di Meo – Communications and Events Officer, Global Solar Council – [email protected]

Sara Bastholm – Head of Communications & Engagement, GWO – [email protected]