Advanced Occupational Diploma: Renewable Energy Technologist
Purpose:
Sources: SAQA official qualification record, SAQA registered qualifications record. Yiba Verified does not own the underlying qualification data shown on this page.
Qualification type
Advanced Occupational Dip
Credits
280
Sub-framework
OQSF - Occupational Qualifications Sub-framework
Providers listed
0
Qualification snapshot
Official qualification identity fields captured from the qualification record.
Originator
Development Quality Partner - EWSETA -Engineering
Quality assurance functionary
QCTO - Quality Council for Trades and Occupations
Field
Field 06 - Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology
Subfield
Engineering and Related Design
Qual class
Regular-ELOAC
Recognise previous learning
Y
Important dates
These dates are carried directly from the qualification record.
Registration start
2024-08-22
Registration end
2029-08-22
Last date for enrolment
2030-08-22
Last date for achievement
2033-08-22
Purpose and entry context
Official SAQA text formatted for easier reading.
Purpose and rationale
Purpose
The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as a Renewable Energy Technologist.
A Renewable Energy Technologist conducts research on new and existing renewable solutions and technologies, evaluates, consults and advises on renewable energy technologies and related projects to ensure the sustainability, efficiency and suitability of renewable energy solutions, technologies for renewable energy generation, transmission, distribution and utilisation in different industry contexts in compliance with the relevant legislative and regulatory requirements to meet national and international energy transition priorities.
A qualified learner will be able to
- Conduct research on new and existing renewable energy solutions and technologies including processes.
- Review renewable energy solutions and technologies to determine suitability, sustainability, efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
- Consult and facilitate site acceptance testing and factory acceptance testing and commissioning of renewable energy equipment.
- Evaluate and solve problems relating to energy generation, transmission and distribution.
- Conduct investigations and propose solutions on energy system failure(s).
Rationale
South Africa has an electricity-intensive economy, and the current sources of electricity cannot meet the high demand for electricity due to high population growth rate hence the need for this qualification as renewable energy is an energy source which will reduce South Africa's vulnerability to the escalating costs of imported fuels. Using non-renewable resources has a greater negative impact on the environment and South Africa is not an exception to this global environmental dilemma as it is largely dependent on using non-renewable resources for power generation.
This qualification will benefit the energy sector with alternative sources of energy as South Africa's fast growing population and other drivers in the economy such as industry and building, agriculture, transport, appliances and other factors pose a challenge for increased demand in electricity, which require renewable energy technologies to meet the rising demand for electricity South Africa. This qualification will not only provide South Africans with greater opportunities to access affordable, clean, safe and reliable energy, but also contribute toward the achievement of global energy transition priorities.
It will benefit the South African society, communities and create more economic opportunities as access to electricity will facilitate the establishment of new businesses, enabling the existing ones to grow thus creating jobs as well as building the capacity of businesses to be more productive contributing to the country's economy.
This qualification will provide learners with knowledge, skills, attitudes and values on a wide spectrum of renewable energy solutions including technologies taking into consideration issues of sustainability, suitability, efficiency of solutions and technologies and climate factors. Renewable Energy Technologists play a major role in discovering and providing advice on technological advancement used globally to generate energy from different sources that can provide huge opportunities for energy transitions to contribute to the nation's electricity. Their innovation in renewable energy will inevitably have positive spin-offs to socio-economic development of the country and society addressing the structural unemployment facing the country.
This qualification is aimed at learners who wish to start a career in this occupation or those who are already working in renewable energy industry but do not have formal qualifications to practice in this occupation. Qualifying learners will gain employment opportunities in government, the private sector and become self-employed. In addition, no licensing or membership requirements apply to this qualification at the time of development. The qualification will allow qualifying learners to articulate vertically, horizontally and diagonally in energy and environmental-related qualifications.
Entry requirements and RPL
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
RPL for access
Learners will gain access to the qualification through RPL for Access as provided for in the QCTO RPL Policy. RPL for access is conducted by accredited education institution, skills development provider or workplace accredited to offer that specific qualification/part qualification.
RPL for exemption
Learners who have acquired competencies of the modules of a qualification or part qualification will be exempted from modules through RPL.
RPL for credits
Learners will be awarded credits for or towards the qualification or part qualification through RPL as provided in the QCTO RPL Policy. RPL for credits provides for the formal award of credits for, or towards a qualification or part-qualification registered on the NQF.
RPL for access to the external integrated summative assessment
Accredited providers and approved workplaces must apply the internal assessment criteria specified in the related curriculum document to establish and confirm prior learning. Accredited providers and workplaces must confirm prior learning by issuing a statement of result or certifying a work experience record.
Entry Requirements
- An NQF Level 6 qualification in Power Generation or Electrical Engineering or Electronics Engineering or Mechanical Engineering.
- An Occupational Certificate at NQF Level 6 or Advanced Occupational Certificate in relevant engineering fields.
Replacement note
This qualification does not replace any other qualification and is not replaced by any other qualification.
Structure and assessment
Qualification rules, exit outcomes, and assessment criteria from the SAQA record.
Qualification rules
This qualification is made up of compulsory Knowledge, Practical Skill and Work Experience Modules
Knowledge Modules
- 215104-000-00-KM-01, Workplace Fundamentals, NQF Level 6, 10 Credits.
- 215104-000-00-KM-0,2 Renewable Energy-Related Legislative and Regulatory Frameworks and Standards, NQF Level 7, 10 Credits.
- 215104-000-00-KM-03, Sources of Renewable Energy and Sustainable Development, NQF Level 7, 15 Credits.
- 215104-000-00-KM-04, Energy Management Systems and Role of Renewable Energy in the Various Sectors of the Economy, NQF Level 7, 5 Credits.
- 215104-000-00-KM-05, Generation and Distribution Networks, NQF Level 7, 5 Credits.
- 215104-000-00-KM-06, Applied Physics and Energy Conversions, NQF Level 8, 15 Credits.
- 215104-000-00-KM-07, Contract Management in Renewable Energy Environment, NQF Level 5, 5 Credits.
- 215104-000-00-KM-08, Financial Modelling for Renewable Energy Projects, NQF Level 7, 20 Credits.
- 215104-000-00-KM-09, Renewable Energy Project Management, NQF Level 7, 10 Credits.
- 215104-000-00-KM-10, Asset Management, NQF Level 7, 8 Credits.
Total number of credits for Knowledge Modules: 103
Practical Skill Modules
- 215104-000-00-PM-01, Conduct Research on Alternative Renewable Energy Solutions and Technologies, NQF Level 7, 25 Credits.
- 215104-000-00-PM-02, Assess and Advise on the Utilisation, Sustainability, Efficiency and Cost-Effectiveness of the Various Renewable Energy Solutions and Technologies, NQF Level 8, 20 Credits.
- 215104-000-00-PM-03, Arrange and assist in Site and Factory Acceptance Testing and Commissioning Processes, NQF Level 7, 10 Credits.
- 215104-000-00-PM-04, Evaluate and Propose Energy Generation, Transmission and Distribution Solutions, NQF Level 7, 10 Credits.
- 215104-000-00-PM-05, Investigate and Resolve Energy System Failure(s), NQF Level 7, 12 Credits.
Total number of credits for Practical Skill Modules: 77
Work Experience Modules
- 215104-000-00-WM-01, Research and Advisory Processes on Renewable Energy Solutions and Technologies, NQF Level 8, 60 Credits.
- 215104-000-00-WM-02, Site Acceptance Testing and Factory Acceptance Testing and Commissioning Processes, NQF Level 7, 15 Credits.
- 215104-000-00-WM-03, Processes of Energy Generation, Transmission and Distribution Problem Analysis, NQF Level 7, 15 Credits.
- 215104-001-00-WM-04, Processes of Investigating Energy System Failures, NQF Level 7, 10 Credits.
Total number of credits for Work Experience Modules: 100
Exit level outcomes
- Examine different sources of renewable energy and advise on solutions and technological advancement for energy transitions and generation.
- Demonstrate the ability to execute evaluation functions for site acceptance testing, factory acceptance testing, and commissioning.
- Evaluate generation, transmission and distribution-related problems and suggest possible solutions.
- Investigate and evaluate causes of energy system failure(s) and propose solutions through application of relevant procedures.
Associated assessment criteria
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1
ELO 1: Examine different sources of renewable energy and advise on solutions and technological advancement for energy transitions and generation.
- Evaluate and apply key terms, concepts, theories, facts and principles applicable to renewable energy.
- Independently validate, evaluate and manage sources of data on renewable energy.
- Communicate with recommendation the ideas, facts and opinions in well-informed arguments on the different renewable energy solutions and technologies reflecting the complexities, strengths, weaknesses and opportunities to address energy related problems.
- Evaluate and consider climatic conditions and terrains impacting on renewable energy infrastructure installation when proposing renewable energy sources and technologies to address the various energy stakeholders' needs.
- Critically appraise, propose and present persuasively technological advancements for probable solutions for renewable energy in the contexts of suitability, sustainability, efficiency and cost-effectiveness including Return-On-Investment (ROI) to the relevant stakeholders.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2
ELO 2: Demonstrate the ability to execute evaluation functions for site acceptance testing, factory acceptance testing, and commissioning.
- Analyse and theories of site acceptance testing factory acceptance testing interpreted within the contexts of testing and commissioning of proposed renewable energy plant installation.
- Evaluate and apply principles governing Site Acceptance Testing (SAT) and Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) in preparation for commissioning activities.
- Plan and follow consultation and collaborative processes on the facilitation and implementation of site acceptance testing, factory acceptance testing and commissioning.
- Observe, record and report execution and installation activities of site acceptance testing factory acceptance testing and commissioning on site using relevant checklist.
- Analyse and apply criteria and processes of testing to be conducted according to plant specifications.
- Maintain production capabilities and design specifications during site testing.
- Justify appropriate ethical values and approaches on the facilitation and implementation of site acceptance testing factory acceptance testing and commissioning.
- Monitor and verify compliance with legal and contractual requirements during site acceptance testing factory acceptance testing and commissioning.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3
ELO 3: Evaluate generation, transmission and distribution-related problems and suggest possible solutions.
- Identify and evaluate problems related to energy generation, transmission and distribution in terms of their impact on socio-economic and infrastructural development.
- Evaluate potential challenges that may occur in energy generation, transmission and distribution on how supply and demand and make suggestions to resolve the identified challenges.
- Differentiate and appraise various renewable energy sources to determine compatibility with all factors such as environmental conditions that may impact on the efficiency and effectiveness of generation, transmission and distribution networks.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4
ELO 4: Investigate and evaluate causes of energy system failure(s) and propose solutions through application of relevant procedures.
- Evaluate suitability of root-cause analysis techniques to determine causes and effects on the supply and demand of energy are evaluated and applying evidence-based solutions and theory-driven arguments resolve problems.
- Factors contributing to energy system failure are analysed.
- Identify and evaluate failures, incidents and accidents causes of power generation and uninterruptible power supply solutions and evidencebased solutions to resolve problems or introduce change within a practice.
Integrated Assessment
Integrated Formative Assessment
The Skills Development Providers will use the curriculum to guide them on the stipulated internal assessment criteria and weighting. They will also apply the scope of practical skills and applied knowledge as stipulated by the internal assessment criteria. This formative assessment leads to entrance into the integrated External Summative Assessment.
Integrated Summative Assessment
An External Integrated Summative Assessment, conducted through the relevant QCTO Assessment Quality Partner is required to issue this qualification. The External Integrated Summative Assessment will focus on the Exit Level Outcomes and Associated Assessment Criteria. Additional to the written assessment the learner must also submit a portfolio of evidence compiled of outcomes achieved in the workplace.
Progression and comparability
Articulation options
This qualification provides opportunities for the following articulation options.
Horizontal Articulation
There are no qualifications at NQF level 7 in the OQSF to which articulation may be possible.
- Advanced Diploma in Mechanical Engineering in Renewable Energy, NQF Level 7.
- Higher Diploma: Mechanical Engineering NQF Level 7.
Vertical Articulation
- There are no qualifications at NQF level 8 in the OQSF to which articulation may be possible.
Diagonal Articulation
- Bachelor of Engineering Technology Honours in Electronic Engineering, NQF Level 8.
- Higher Certificate in Project Management, NQF Level 5.
NOTES
Qualifying for External Assessment
To qualify for an external assessment, learners must provide proof of completion of all required knowledge and practical modules by means of statements of results and a record of completed work experience.
Additional Legal or Physical Entry Requirements
None.
Criteria for the accreditation of providers
Accreditation of providers will be done against the criteria as reflected in the relevant curriculum on the QCTO website. The curriculum title and code: Renewable Energy Technologist: 215104-000-00-00.
Encompassed Trade
None.
Assessment Quality Partner (AQP)
Energy and Water Sector Education and Training Authority (EWSETA).
International comparability
An international comparability study was conducted to compare best practices from the National Qualifications Frameworks or training programmes aimed at this occupation. The countries searched were Canada and Australia.
Canada
Northern Alberta Institute of Technology
Diploma in Alternative Energy Technology
The Northern Alberta Institute of Technology offers a qualification that is industry and government approved aimed at alternative technologists who may work indoors or out of location on sales, design, project management or energy planning. The qualification provides learners with the theoretical and practical skills needed to design, integrate and maintain systems that utilise major alternative energy sources. Information on the level of this qualification is not provided. The entry requirements are:
- English 30-1 or English 30-2.
- Math 30-1.
- Chemistry 20.
- Physics 20.
- Proof of English Language Proficiency.
Or
- Successful completion of minimum 24 post-secondary credits or 8 post-secondary courses* within an accredited or recognized degree or diploma in a related field (engineering or engineering technology) with an Admission GPA of 2.0 based on the most recently completed post-secondary credits.
- Proof of English Language Proficiency.
Learners will be provided with the following knowledge and skills
Term 1
- Introduction to the Clean Energy Industry.
- Energy Software Applications.
- Electrical Energy.
- Thermal Energy for the Built Environment.
- Bio-energy.
- Chemical Principles in Alternative Energy.
Term 2
- Co-Generation and Heat Exchangers.
- Solar Photovoltaic Technology.
- Geo-Exchange Technology.
- Wind and Hydro Technologies.
- Energy Storage.
- Codes, Regulations and Safety.
Term 3 plus 1 Elective
- Alternative Energy System Hybridization.
- Economic Principles of Clean Energy.
- Advanced Bio-energy and Bio-refining.
- Project Leadership and Management.
Term 4 plus 1 Elective
- Alternative Energy Capstone.
- Energy Audit and Energy Management.
- Life Cycle Assessment, Carbon Accounting and Corporate Responsibility.
- Building Energy Modeling.
Electives
- Large Scale Renewable Energy Systems.
- Green Building Certifications and Retrofits.
- Global Energy Issues and Intercultural Competency.
Similarities
This qualification is similar to the South African qualification in terms of the target audience, entry requirements and content providing theoretical knowledge and practical skills that are industry specific. It is also similar to the South African qualification in terms of duration as it is offered within 2 years.
Differences
The Canadian qualification differs from the South African qualification in terms of structure as it provides knowledge, practical skills and specialised skills through electives to be completed during Terms 3 and 4, whereas the South African qualification is delivered through modular approach covering a broad range of competencies with a strong emphasis on occupational application focusing more on developing knowledge and practical skills that can be applied in a real-life work environment through the workplace experience modules to address the South African energy challenges, rather than theory and practical skills including specialised skills alone in the case of the Canadian qualification.
Australia
Chisholm Institute offers the Advanced Diploma of Engineering Technology: Renewable Energy.
The Advanced Diploma of Engineering Technology: Renewable Energy is registered on the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) which provides qualifications of vocational or occupational nature preparing learners to practice in an occupation. This qualification provides learners with competencies to plan, design, validate/evaluate renewable energy equipment and systems, project management, manage risk, estimate and manage projects, effective management techniques, workplace safety and provide technical advice in renewable energy. The level of the qualification is not provided. The entry requirements for the qualification are Year 12 and Chisolm English Language, and there is no licensing or legal requirements ato this qualification.
The curriculum is comprised of the following 24 core units which compare favourably with the South African qualification and 38 Elective units and differ slightly in terms of structure as it is unit of competency-based in respect of the elective component providing learners an opportunity for specialisation.
The content of the qualification includes
- Manage renewable energy (RE) projects.
- Develop strategies to address environmental and sustainability issues in the energy sector (Core).
- Apply work health and safety regulations, codes and practices.
- Develop design briefs for electrotechnology projects.
- Apply physics to solving electrotechnology engineering problems.
- Use drawings, diagrams, schedules, standards, codes and specifications.
- Solve problems in direct current circuits.
- Write specifications for renewable energy engineering projects.
- Provide solutions to basic engineering computational problems.
- Document and apply measures to control Work Health and Safety (WHS) risks associated with electrotechnology work.
- Implement and monitor energy sector Work Health and Safety (WHS) policies and procedures.
- Solve basic problems in photovoltaic energy apparatus and systems.
- Use engineering applications software on personal computers.
- Plan renewable energy (RE) projects.
- Compile and produce an energy sector detailed report.
- Apply material science to solving electrotechnology engineering problems.
- Diagnose and rectify faults in renewable energy (RE) control systems.
- Solve problems in stand-alone renewable energy (RE) systems.
- Manage renewable energy (RE) projects.
- Provide engineering solutions to problems in complex polyphase power circuits.
- Apply industry and community standards to engineering activities.
- Solve problems in direct current (d.c.) machines.
- Fix and secure electrotechnology equipment.
- Lay wiring/cabling and terminate accessories for extra-low voltage (ELV) circuits.
Similarities
The qualification is similar in terms of the content and the duration of the qualification is 2 years relating to the actual competencies on renewable energy and has higher vocational or job-related emphasis and focuses more on developing practical skills that can be applied in the workplace rather than theory alone.
Differences
The Australian Advanced Diploma of Engineering Technology: Renewable Energy differs with the South African qualification in terms of structure as the packaging rules provides weighting points comprising core and elective units that contribute to the vocational outcome of the qualification whereas the South African qualification is modular-based and credit-bearing that is fit-for-purpose and industry-specific.
Conclusion
The qualifications found in Canada and Australia compare favourably with the South African Advanced Occupational Diploma: Renewable Energy Technologist qualification in terms of the content and the duration.
Providers currently listed
This reflects provider names published on the official record. It is useful for qualification discovery, but it should not be treated as a substitute for checking the relevant quality body’s latest provider status.
No provider listing was captured on this qualification record.
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