17 Solar Engineer Interview Questions and Answers

As solar energy becomes an increasingly important part of the global energy mix, the number of jobs for solar engineers is on the rise. Solar engineers design, install, and maintain solar energy systems. They may also work on research and development to improve solar technology.

If you’re looking to enter this growing field, you’ll need to be able to answer some tough questions in your job interview. To help you get started, we’ve compiled a list of common solar engineer interview questions and answers.

Are you familiar with the various types of photovoltaic cells used in solar power systems?

This question is a great way for interviewers to assess your knowledge of solar power systems and the various components that make them work. When answering this question, it can be helpful to list out the different types of photovoltaic cells you are familiar with and describe their functions in solar power systems.

Example: “There are three main types of photovoltaic cells used in solar power systems. The first type is monocrystalline silicon, which is made from single-crystal silicon wafers. This type of cell has high efficiency rates but is also quite expensive. The second type is polycrystalline silicon, which is made from multiple crystals of silicon. This type of cell is less expensive than monocrystalline silicon but still highly efficient. The third type is amorphous silicon, which is made from thin layers of silicon. This type of cell is the least expensive but also the least efficient.”

What are the advantages and disadvantages of using crystalline silicon photovoltaic cells?

This question is a great way to test your knowledge of solar cells and how they work. You can use this opportunity to show the interviewer that you understand the different types of solar cells, their advantages and disadvantages and when it’s best to use each type.

Example: “Crystalline silicon photovoltaic cells are one of the most common types of solar cells because they’re relatively inexpensive to produce and easy to install. However, crystalline silicon photovoltaic cells have a lower energy conversion rate than other types of solar cells, such as thin-film solar cells. This means that crystalline silicon photovoltaic cells aren’t as efficient at converting sunlight into electricity.”

How would you troubleshoot a solar power system that isn’t producing as much energy as expected?

Solar power systems are complex, and the interviewer may want to know how you would troubleshoot a solar system that isn’t producing as much energy as expected. Use your answer to highlight your problem-solving skills and ability to analyze data to find solutions.

Example: “I would first look at the inverter to see if there is any damage or malfunctioning components. If everything looks good on the inverter, I would then check the wiring for any loose connections or damaged wires. After checking the wiring, I would test the voltage of each panel to make sure they are all functioning properly. Finally, I would check the battery to ensure it has enough charge to support the system.”

What is the difference between direct and indirect sunlight?

This question is a basic one that tests your knowledge of solar energy. It also shows the interviewer how you apply this knowledge to real-world situations. In your answer, define direct and indirect sunlight and explain their differences. You can use an example from your previous experience to show how you used these concepts in practice.

Example: “Direct sunlight is when the sun’s rays directly hit a surface. This type of light is intense and has high temperatures. Indirect sunlight occurs when the sun’s rays reflect off other surfaces before hitting a surface. The temperature of indirect sunlight is lower than direct sunlight because it loses some of its heat as it reflects.”

Provide an example of a solar thermal system and explain how it works.

This question is a great way to test your knowledge of solar thermal systems. Solar thermal systems are used for heating water and other liquids, so it’s important that you can explain how they work in detail. When answering this question, try to use specific examples from your experience with solar thermal systems.

Example: “Solar thermal systems use the sun’s heat to warm up liquids like water or oil. The liquid is heated by using mirrors to reflect sunlight onto a receiver tube. This heats up the fluid inside the tube, which then transfers its heat into the system’s storage tank. In my last position, I helped design a solar thermal system that could heat water to 120 degrees Fahrenheit.”

If a customer is concerned about the aesthetics of a solar power system, how would you address their concerns?

Interviewers may ask this question to assess your customer service skills. They want to know that you can help customers understand the benefits of solar power and how it works, even if they’re not interested in its aesthetics. In your answer, try to emphasize your communication skills and ability to educate others about solar energy.

Example: “I would first explain why aesthetics are important when designing a solar system. I’d also show them examples of systems with different aesthetic designs so they could see what’s possible. If they still aren’t satisfied, I would offer to design a custom solution for their home or business that meets their needs while also incorporating solar technology.”

What would you do if a solar panel stopped working during the middle of a project?

This question can help interviewers understand how you approach challenges and solve problems. Your answer should show that you are willing to take initiative, communicate with your team members and use your problem-solving skills to find solutions.

Example: “If a solar panel stopped working during the middle of a project, I would first try to determine why it stopped functioning. If it was due to a minor issue like a loose wire or a more serious problem like a broken circuit board, I would fix the issue myself or call in my supervisor for assistance. If the solar panel is beyond repair, I would contact the client to discuss our options. We could either replace the damaged panel or remove it from the system entirely.”

How well do you work under pressure to meet deadlines and stay on schedule?

The interviewer may ask this question to assess your ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines. Use examples from past experiences where you met tight deadlines or worked on a project with strict time constraints.

Example: “In my previous role, I was responsible for designing solar panels that could withstand harsh weather conditions. This meant working in a short timeframe because the company needed these designs before the start of hurricane season. In this situation, I had to work long hours to ensure all aspects of the design were complete by the deadline. However, I managed to stay ahead of schedule and deliver the final product just in time.”

Do you have experience working with electrical components?

This question can help the interviewer determine if you have experience working with solar panels and other electrical components. Use your answer to highlight any previous work experience that involved electrical components, but also include any training or certifications you may have in this area.

Example: “I do have some experience working with electrical components. In my last role as a solar engineer, I was responsible for designing solar systems that were compatible with existing electrical grids. This included understanding how different types of solar energy could interact with the grid’s current and voltage levels. To prepare myself for these projects, I took an online course on solar power system design.”

When is it more cost-effective to use solar power instead of traditional electricity sources?

This question can help interviewers understand your knowledge of solar power and how it compares to traditional energy sources. Use examples from your experience that show you know when solar is more cost-effective than other forms of electricity generation.

Example: “Solar power is most cost-effective when the sun’s rays are directly hitting a solar panel, which means it’s best for use in locations with plenty of sunlight. In my last position, I helped determine where solar panels would be most effective on our client’s property. We determined that installing solar panels on the south side of their building would provide them with the most savings because they had plenty of direct sunlight there.”

We want to be environmentally friendly. How would you promote the benefits of solar power to our customers?

Solar power is a growing industry, and many people are interested in using solar energy to reduce their carbon footprint. Employers want to know that you can effectively promote the benefits of solar power to customers. In your answer, explain how you would convince someone to use solar power over other forms of renewable energy.

Example: “I believe that solar power is one of the most environmentally friendly ways to produce electricity. I would start by explaining the basics of solar power to my customer. Then, I would show them how much money they could save on their monthly bill by switching to solar power. I also think it’s important to educate people about the environmental impact of fossil fuels so they understand why reducing our dependence on these resources is beneficial.”

Describe your process for installing solar panels on a new roof.

This question is a great way to test your problem-solving skills and ability to work as part of a team. When answering this question, it can be helpful to describe the steps you would take when installing solar panels on a new roof. You may also want to mention any challenges that might arise during the installation process.

Example: “When working with my last employer, I was responsible for designing the layout of solar panels on new roofs. My first step in this process was to meet with the client to discuss their goals for the project. After meeting with the client, I would then create a blueprint of the house’s current structure. Next, I would use the blueprint to determine where the best locations are for placing the solar panels.”

What makes solar energy unique compared to other renewable energy sources?

Solar energy is a unique renewable resource because it’s the only one that can be used to generate electricity. Other renewable resources, such as wind and water, are typically used for other purposes like transportation or irrigation. Solar energy is also unique in that it’s available during all hours of the day, unlike wind and water which are more prevalent at certain times of the day.

Example: “Solar energy is unique because it’s the only renewable source of energy that can be used to generate electricity. It’s also unique because it’s available throughout the entire day, whereas wind and water are most prevalent at different times of the day.”

Which industries use solar power the most?

Solar power is a growing industry, and many companies are looking for solar engineers to help them expand their use of renewable energy. Your answer should show the interviewer that you have experience in this field and can apply your knowledge to their company.

Example: “Solar power is used most often by residential customers because it’s an affordable way to generate electricity. However, businesses also use solar power as a source of renewable energy. For example, some businesses use solar panels on rooftops or parking lots to generate electricity. Solar power is also used in remote locations where there isn’t access to traditional power sources.”

What do you think is the future of solar energy?

Solar energy is a growing industry, and the interviewer may want to know your thoughts on how solar power will evolve in the future. Your answer should show that you are passionate about solar energy and understand its potential for growth. You can also use this question as an opportunity to discuss any personal goals or ambitions related to solar energy.

Example: “I think solar energy has a bright future ahead of it. As more people learn about the benefits of solar energy, I expect we’ll see more homes and businesses using solar panels. In fact, I would love to work with a company that helps homeowners install solar panels. I believe that if everyone used solar energy, we could reduce our dependence on fossil fuels and help protect the environment.”

How often should solar panels be cleaned?

Solar panels are cleaned to remove dust and dirt buildup. This is important because it can reduce the efficiency of solar panels, which reduces their ability to produce energy. Your answer should show that you know how often they need to be cleaned and why this is necessary.

Example: “Solar panels should be cleaned at least once a year. If they aren’t cleaned regularly, then they may become inefficient due to dust and dirt buildup. I recommend cleaning them in the spring when there isn’t as much dust on the ground. Cleaning them during this time will ensure that they are clean before summer, when they are most efficient.”

There is a new technology that could improve the efficiency of solar panels by 20%. Would you be interested in learning about it and implementing it in your work?

This question is a great way to determine how much you enjoy learning new things and adapting to change. It also shows the interviewer that you are willing to put in extra effort to improve your work. Your answer should show that you are excited about learning new technologies and implementing them into your work.

Example: “I would definitely be interested in learning more about this technology. I love learning about new ways to improve efficiency, especially if it could save our company money. I am always looking for ways to make my projects even better than they already are.”