EV, Solar, or PAT? Where Electricians Should Upskill Next

If you are wondering where electricians should upskill next, you are not alone.

Many electricians know they need to move forward. The challenge is deciding which route gives the best return. EV? Solar? PAT? Or something else first?

The good news is that there is no one-size-fits-all answer. The right next step depends on your goals, your customers, and the kind of work you want more of.

Why this decision matters now

The electrical industry is shifting quickly. From 1st October 2026, updated EAS guidance will apply to electricians carrying out low-carbon work such as EV charging and solar PV, as well as testing and certification work. The correct Level 3 qualifications and evidence of ongoing competence will matter more than ever.

That makes upskilling a practical business decision, not just a training decision.

EV charging: strong demand and future growth

EV charging is a smart option if you want to tap into a growing market. Official government statistics show there were 116,052 EV chargers in the UK on 1 January 2026, and official demand estimates range from 250,000 to 550,000 public chargers by 2030.

EV is a strong fit if you want to:

• Add a future-focused service

• Work on domestic and commercial projects

• Stay relevant as transport changes

If your clients are asking about chargers, this is a clear signal.

Solar PV: ideal for growth in renewables

Solar PV is another strong route. It sits firmly within the low-carbon category recognised by the EAS guidance, which means it is both commercially relevant and strategically important.

Solar is a strong fit if you want to:

• Move into renewable energy projects

• Expand beyond standard installs

• Build long-term capability in green technologies

Solar can also work well alongside EV, especially for electricians building a broader green offer.

PAT Testing: the practical commercial option

PAT Testing may not sound as exciting as EV or solar, but it is valuable.

It helps businesses stay compliant. It can reduce outsourcing costs. It also gives electricians a service they can offer quickly and confidently.

PAT is a strong fit if you want to:

• Widen your offer fast

• Support local businesses

• Add compliance-led revenue

PAT Testing is often a great first step if you want a practical upskill with quick application.

So, where electricians should upskill next depends on this

Ask yourself three simple questions:

What do my customers already need? If you already get asked about EV chargers, start there.

Do I want quick wins or long-term positioning? PAT can deliver quick wins. EV and solar support longer-term growth.

Is my compliance base already strong? If not, make sure your 18th Edition and testing knowledge are current first. The IET has confirmed that BS 7671 remains the standard, with Amendment 4:2026 on the way.

“The best upskill is the one that matches both demand and direction.”

A simple way to choose

A practical route might look like this:

• Start with the 18th Edition if you need to refresh your base

• Choose PAT if you want compliance-led work

• Choose EV if demand is already visible

• Choose Solar if you want to build a green specialism

You can explore our main Greenpays page, check upcoming cohorts, or send an enquiry. For industry guidance, visit the IET EAS Qualifications Guide or the government’s EV charging infrastructure statistics.

Ready to upskill with confidence?

If you are deciding where electricians should upskill next, focus on the route that supports your work now and your goals for the future.

Greenpays offers commercial City & Guilds-accredited courses in EV, Solar, PAT, and core compliance training to help you move forward with confidence.

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