Interplay Learning’s Solar Apprenticeship Packages Help Solar Contractors Leverage IRA Incentives
Interplay Learning has launched flexible, online solar apprenticeship packages that help solar developers, EPC companies, and contractors establish registered in-house apprentice programs to meet the Inflation Reduction Act’s requirement of 15% apprentice labor hours for qualifying up to 30% tax credits on large-scale solar projects, thereby overcoming traditional barriers of cost and complexity and enabling businesses to capitalize on federal solar installation incentives.
Interplay Learning, a leading provider of immersive skilled trades training, has introduced a comprehensive range of offerings to help organizations quickly launch flexible, online apprenticeship programs in the utility-scale solar field. These apprenticeship packages are designed to assist solar developers, EPC (Engineering, Procurement and Construction) companies, and commercial-scale contractors in setting up registered in-house apprentice programs. This enables them to meet standards for new business opportunities and qualify for extensive solar installation tax incentives available through the federal Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) passed in 2022.
According to Doug Donovan, founder and CEO of Interplay Learning, the IRA represents a significant investment in solar installation, creating new opportunities for developers, EPC companies, and contractors. However, the cost and complexity of in-house apprentice programs have been a barrier for many business owners. Interplay’s apprenticeship packages aim to remove these barriers by providing the resources needed to efficiently implement programs that prepare team members for large-scale solar installation projects. These programs can be leveraged to take full advantage of IRA opportunities and drive business growth.
The IRA offers up to 30% in tax credits on certain large commercial and utility-scale solar installations. To qualify, 15% of total labor hours on the project must be completed by apprentices enrolled in a registered apprenticeship program approved by the US Department of Labor or State Apprenticeship Agency.
Interplay Learning’s apprenticeship experts assist companies in several ways:
- Starting a registered apprenticeship program
- Supplementing existing programs with the appropriate curriculum
- Providing a turnkey program with ongoing management services and support
The program uses a modern apprenticeship approach, offering flexibility through online delivery. This allows organizations to access high-quality, expert-led training and hands-on simulations without the need for in-person teaching. Interplay Learning manages the administrative details, enabling companies to focus on core operations while easily tracking progress and compliance.
Interplay Learning’s apprenticeship packages include:
- Start Package: Interplay experts guide companies in launching their program, offering advice on registered apprenticeship policies related to the IRA, designing and registering the program, incorporating Interplay’s training courses, and sharing best practices for on-the-job training, related instruction, and wage tracking.
- Supplement Package: Companies can enhance existing apprentice programs using Interplay Learning’s catalog of solar and electrical content, which includes over 450 hours of expert-led video courses and 3D simulations. The package also offers assistance with curriculum mapping and RTI reporting.
- Steward Package: Interplay experts work closely with companies to design, register, implement, and manage their program; create a curriculum paired with on-the-job training; manage compliance and administrative tasks; research grant opportunities; train supervisors; and provide guidance for licensure in relevant states.
Donovan emphasized that the financial incentives of the IRA are driving investment in the solar industry, and Interplay is positioned to help companies meet labor demand as the sector grows. The new apprenticeship packages provide a reliable path for companies to comply with IRA guidelines, win more work, and benefit from tax incentives.
About Interplay Learning
Interplay Learning, based in Austin, is an industry leader in immersive training solutions for the skilled trades. Its training platform enables rapid upskilling and prepares new technicians to be job-ready within weeks. The platform features expert-led videos, hands-on 3D simulations, knowledge checks, and personalized learning paths, making it more scalable and engaging than traditional training. Interplay leverages advanced technologies like AI and VR to deliver effective learning experiences that lead to better careers and lives.
Recent accolades for Interplay Learning include AHR’s 2023 Innovation Award, Forbes’ 2023 America’s Best Startup Employers, the 2022 Inc. 5000 list, the 2022 Inc. Best in Business list, and honorable mentions in Fast Company’s 2021 World Changing Ideas Awards.
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