From restless student to owner of a thriving solar electrical business. Training and real-world experience led Peter to turn an apprenticeship into something bigger.
A kid who couldn’t sit still
Like many hands‑on learners, Peter’s journey in life changed when he discovered a pathway into the trades.
“I never did too well in school – I couldn’t really sit still,” says Peter, founder and managing director of Eclipse Energy.
Today, he’s the owner of his own solar electrical business, building a career that plays to his practical skills while helping to power a greener future.
From apprentice to business owner: building a career as a solar electrician
Peter learned the trade from the ground up, gaining skills through hands‑on solar electrician training on site.
For Peter, doing an apprenticeship was the best decision he’s ever made.
“I was lucky enough to get offered an apprenticeship straight out of high school,” he says.
“It was the best thing I’ve ever done because I am a hands-on type of person.”
Those lightbulb moments
If you enjoy problem‑solving, a career as a solar electrician can be a great fit, Peter says.
With hands‑on solar electrician training, each job offers new challenges to work through.
“If you are a thinker, a problem solver, then you’d be really good as an electrician,” Peter says.
“Ninety-nine per cent of our job is just figuring out problems and how to solve them.”
Variety is the spice of life
One of the best parts of working as a solar electrician is the variety the job offers. No two days look the same.
“One day we might be installing EV chargers in a domestic or commercial property,” Peter says.
“Other days we might be doing just general electrical works, switchboard upgrades or lighting and power.”
The Solar Revolution
From solar panels to batteries, Western Australia is leading the charge on the solar revolution.
Over half a million homes in WA have solar panels, and more than 100 batteries are being installed each and every day.
And Peter has seen the benefits firsthand.
“We are helping people reduce their bills. We can give people their energy independence.
“We have battery backup capabilities now, and with the EV infrastructure going in, it is a good way to move forward.”
A career as a solar electrician: “the world is your oyster”
The opportunities for qualified solar electricians continue to grow as demand for renewable energy and electrical upgrades increases.
Completing a recognised solar electrician course and gaining hands‑on solar electrician training can open the door to a wide range of career paths - from residential and commercial installations to EV charging and maintenance.
“There are endless opportunities. There is so far you can go with the trade,” Peter says.
“Don’t sleep on it, there are always people looking for apprentices.
“The quicker you get it done, the quicker you become qualified, and the world is your oyster.”
How CTF can help you
If you’re interested in becoming a Solar Electrician, contact CTF to learn about ways into the industry.
There are a number of pathways and school-based traineeships, as well as other routes and financial support, through CTF.
