The Training for Photovoltaic System Technicians Under the EMERALD Project Concludes Successfully

This week, the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry hosted an official ceremony to award certificates to the participants who successfully completed the photovoltaic system technician training, organized within the framework of the European project EMERALD – "Empowering Migrant Workers for a Sustainable Future: Upskilling and Reskilling for Green and Digital Jobs."

Over the course of three months, the trainees—third-country nationals residing in Bulgaria—underwent specialized training developed by the Solar Academy Bulgaria, which combined theoretical knowledge with practical, hands-on sessions in the field of renewable energy sources.

During the course, the participants gained a foundational understanding of photovoltaic technologies, electrical engineering, system components and installation, as well as equipment safety and maintenance. Field-based practical sessions provided them with the opportunity to apply their newly acquired knowledge in a real-world working environment, enabling them to develop the skills necessary for the safe and efficient installation and maintenance of small and medium-scale photovoltaic systems.

In his welcoming address to the participants, Dr. Vasil Todorov, Vice-President of the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, emphasized that the completed training represents an important step toward better professional realization for the participants, social inclusion, and active contribution to the green transition of the European economy. Gratitude was expressed to all the trainees for their motivation, perseverance, and drive for development in a rapidly evolving sector—that of renewable energy sources.

The certificates were presented by Dr. Vasil Todorov, Vice President of BCCI, Tsvetomir Dumanov, Executive Director of Caritas Sofia, and Eng. Dr. Veselin Todorov, President of the Management Board of the Solar Academy Bulgaria Association, partners in the initiative.

The EMERALD project focuses on developing green and digital skills, which are increasingly in demand in today’s labor market. In Bulgaria, the project is implemented by the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Caritas Sofia, in partnership with a number of organizations dedicated to the integration and professional development of migrants and refugees.

The photovoltaic system technician training serves as an excellent example of successful collaboration among businesses, the non-governmental sector, and training organizations to address skilled labor shortages and foster social inclusion through vocational training.

The participants expressed strong motivation to advance their careers and find long-term employment within the renewable energy industry.