Standards are used to measure or guide performance.  Standards identify the vital aspects of a product or service.  When standards are followed, consumers can be assured that they are getting a workable product or service.

ISP develops Quality Standards for the renewable energy training field to ensure that practitioners receive the knowledge and skills they need to correctly plan, install, repair, service, or otherwise work with renewable energy technologies like solar electric systems or wind turbines.

ISP started with a key document describing quality factors that any renewable energy training program or trainer should demonstrate.  The ISPQ International Standard 01021 describes HOW a quality training program or trainer should run. Its sections include guidance on administration, facilities, personnel training & qualifications, documentation practices, safety, equipment, ethical practices, policy, etc. 

ISP develops its standards through a consensus process that involves consultation with Subject Matter Experts (SME).  Subject Matter Experts are those persons with experience and acknowledged expertise in a specific area.  For the ISP standards-development process, this has included consultation with experts on education, vocational training, and accreditation, certification, as well as experts on the individual renewable energy technologies.

In addition to this key standard, ISP uses industry-approved “content standards” that describe WHAT a quality training program should teach.  These content standards are called Task Analyses.  They are specific to a technology and a job description.  So, for example, there is one Task Analysis aimed at training for solar electric system installers and another for solar thermal installers and others.  Please check with your Regional ISPQ Licensee for the list of Task Analyses that are used.