About the Institute for Sustainable Power

The Institute for Sustainable Power, Inc. (ISP) was founded as a non-profit organization in 1996 with the goal of improving the installations of renewable energy projects by verifying the quality of training provided to renewable energy practitioners.

Quality work depends on technicians, installers, designers, and others who have been properly trained to do the job.  Whether it’s a solar electric installation in Africa, a micro-hydro installation in India, a ground-source heat pump system in Europe, or a solar hot water system in the United States, practitioners with the right training and experience will make a big difference in the success of renewable energy markets.

To accomplish this, ISP developed a standard to guide the trainers and training institutions that serve renewable energy practitioners.  The standard is then used to accredit training institutions or training programs, or to certify trainers.

In June 2005, ISP’s founder and executive director, Mark Fitzgerald, passed away.  Mark was an energetic advocate of solar and renewable energy and gained international recognition for his leadership for promoting quality training. 

With Mark’s passing, ISP is run through regional representative organizations.  To find an organization licensed to use the ISPQ Standard for Accreditation and Certification, click here