Skilled trades training platform Interplay Learning has introduced new offerings that equip solar organizations to quickly launch flexible, online apprenticeship programs and qualify for IRA incentives.

Interplay’s apprenticeship packages help solar developers, EPC companies, and commercial-scale contractors set up registered in-house apprentice programs and meet standards for new business opportunities and solar installation tax incentives available through the federal Inflation Reduction Act (IRA).

“The IRA represents an enormous investment in solar installation and opens incredible new opportunities for developers, EPC companies, and contractors,” said Doug Donovan, founder and CEO of Interplay Learning. “Until now, the cost and complexity of in-house apprentice programs have been a barrier for many business owners. They simply didn’t have the resources to efficiently implement a program that would prepare new and existing team members for large-scale solar installation projects. But with Interplay’s apprenticeship packages, those businesses can establish their own registered apprenticeship training program that can be leveraged to take full advantage of the opportunities available through the IRA and drive growth.”

The IRA offers up to 30% in tax credits on some large commercial and utility-scale solar installations. To qualify, 15% of total labor hours on the project must be completed by apprentices enrolled in a registered apprenticeship program approved by the US Department of Labor or State Apprenticeship Agency.

Interplay Learning’s apprenticeship experts help companies start a registered apprenticeship program, supplement existing programs with the right curriculum or provide a turnkey program with ongoing management services and support.

The program’s modern apprenticeship approach offers flexibility for workers using an online delivery method. Organizations get high-quality, expert-led training and hands-on simulations without the need for in-person teaching. By managing administrative details of the program, Interplay Learning allows companies to focus on their core operations while benefiting from Interplay’s insights to easily track progress and compliance.

With Interplay Learning’s apprenticeship packages, business owners can identify and implement an apprentice program suited to their specific needs.

• With the Start package, Interplay experts help companies launch their program by offering guidance on registered apprenticeship policies as it relates to the IRA; designing, implementing and registering the program and incorporating Interplay’s flexible training courses into the apprenticeship curriculum; and sharing best practices for on-the-job training, related instruction and wage tracking.
• The Supplement package allows companies to enhance an existing apprentice program using Interplay Learning’s deep catalog of solar and electrical content and more than 450 hours of expert-led video courses and hands-on 3D simulations. In addition, the Supplement package offers assistance with curriculum mapping and RTI reporting.
• With the Steward package, Interplay experts work closely with companies to design, register, implement and manage their program; create a curriculum of courses to pair with on-the-job training; manage apprenticeship compliance and other ongoing administrative tasks; research grant opportunities, including applications and reporting; train supervisors on processes; and provide guidance for licensure in correlating states.

“The financial incentives of the IRA are driving a surge of investment in the solar industry,” Donovan said. “Interplay is uniquely positioned to help companies meet labor demand as the sector grows. We have a proven track record of providing tools that quickly and effectively get people skilled, and our new apprenticeship packages offer companies a reliable, trusted path to comply with IRA guidelines, win more work, and take advantage of valuable tax incentives.”

News item from Interplay