New grant program will train area residents in solar technology and business

A new grant program at Georgia College & State University gives Central Georgia residents the opportunity to take a free certification course in solar and green technology. It will also provide the tools for starting their own businesses.

The 40-hour course, “An Introduction to Solar Technology and Entrepreneurship,” launches in January through Georgia College’s Department of Continuing and Professional Education. It’s paid from a $100,000 grant from the Partnership for Inclusive Innovation (PIN), awarded to the university’s Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship in September.

The course is for anyone interested in getting trained in green technology, solar power and next-generation business tactics. Underserved residents and the unemployed are especially invited to apply. The course will be taught by Dr. Nicolas Creel, assistant professor of business law and ethics, and Dr. Hasitha Mahabaduge, associate professor of physics.

Special emphasis will be placed on the design and installation of photovoltaic electrical systems for residential and commercial use. Participants will also be taught about entrepreneurship and how to start their own businesses in the solar and green-energy market sector.

Participants will receive a certificate of completion and selected individuals will install solar panels on local government buildings in Milledgeville. 

There will be four cohorts of classes from January to June 2024. Participants must be age 18 or older with an interest in solar power. To sign up, please visit: https://cpe.gcsu.edu/gcsu/course/course.aspx?catId=115.

For more information, please contact Nancy Finney, program coordinator for Continuing & Professional Education, at 478-445-2762.