SAQA All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.
SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Occupational Certificate: Wind Turbine Service Technician 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
99559  Occupational Certificate: Wind Turbine Service Technician 
ORIGINATOR
Development Quality Partner - MERSETA 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
-   OQSF - Occupational Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Occupational Certificate  Field 06 - Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology  Manufacturing and Assembly 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  123  Not Applicable  NQF Level 05  Regular-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Reregistered  EXCO 0425/24  2018-07-01  2025-12-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2026-12-30   2029-12-30  

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.  

This qualification does not replace any other qualification and is not replaced by any other qualification. 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:
The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as a Wind Turbine Service Technician.

A Wind Turbine Service Technician plans, prepares and conducts installation, maintenance and component assembly for wind turbine processes, systems, facilities and equipment.

A qualified learner will be able to:
  • Prepare and plan for installation of components.
  • Inspect, diagnose malfunctioning and conduct maintenance, replacement and repair of wind turbine components.
  • Assemble and install component parts and/or equipment.

    Rationale:
    A consortium of sector organisations, including Green Cape, Centre for Renewable and Sustainable Energy Studies and South African Wind Energy Association, conducted and supported earlier studies by identifying the need for specific training for Wind Turbine Service Technicians in South Africa.

    The Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) allocated funds for the establishment (design, erection and commissioning) of the South African Renewable Energies Technology Centre (SARETEC) at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) to focus on training of Wind Turbine Service Technicians. This initiative is supported by the National Skills Fund (NSF), South Africa's National Energy Development Institute (SANEDI), DHET; Department of Education (DoE), GIZ, CIM, GREEN CAPE, BAVARIA and ESKOM. Erection of wind turbine parks has commenced in the Eastern and Western Cape.

    This qualification will draw learners that are qualified in disciplines such as Electrician, Fitter/Turner, Millwright and Mechatronics, and various other equivalent national certificates from the Technical Vocational Education and Training colleges (TVET). The incumbents will receive additional training in operation and maintenance of wind turbines. Learners will perform a variety of (operational and maintenance) functions that are important to sustain the capital investment in this sector.

    The wind energy will provide an additional source of alternative energy and assist the South African economy to comply with various international protocols aimed at reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable environment practices. The current concession contracts for installation of wind turbines in the three Cape provinces are estimated to have generated many additional jobs for Wind Turbine Service Technicians. Currently, almost all the components required for erection of wind turbines are imported, but the potential exists for immediate development of component manufacturers and other services around targeted areas of Western, Northern and Eastern Cape. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    RPL for access to the external integrated summative assessment: Accredited providers and approved workplaces must apply the internal assessment criteria specified in the related Curriculum document to establish and confirm prior learning. Accredited providers and workplaces must confirm prior learning by issuing a Statement of Results or certifying a Work Experience Record.

    RPL for access to the qualification: Accredited providers and approved workplaces may recognise prior learning against the relevant entry requirements.

    Entry Requirements:
  • Level 4 qualification in any of the following disciplines: Electrical, Fitting and Turning Millwright, and Mechatronics. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification is made up of the following compulsory Knowledge and Practical Skill Modules:

    Knowledge Modules:
  • 313110000-KM-01, Renewable energy and the environment, Level 3, 15 Credits.
  • 313110000-KM-02, Wind Turbine Technology, Level 5, 26 Credits.
  • 313110000-KM-03, Principles of Occupational Health and Safety, Level 4, 3 Credits.
    Total number of credits for Knowledge Modules: 44.

    Practical Skill Modules:
  • 313110000-PM-01, Apply health and safety requirements, Level 4, 3 Credits.
  • 313110000-PM-02, Use and operate rigging gear in wind turbine environment, Level 3, 2 Credits.
  • 313110000-PM-03, Select, use and care for engineering tools, Level 3, 2 Credits.
  • 313110000-PM-04, Inspect, diagnose and address malfunctioning of wind turbine mechanical equipment, Level 5, 5 Credits.
  • 313110000-PM-05, Assembly and installation of mechanical parts and components, Level 5, 11 Credits.
  • 313110000-PM-06, Diagnose and address malfunctioning of electrical and electronic equipment, Level 5, 5 Credits.
  • 313110000-PM-07, Assembly and installation of electrical and electronic components, Level 5, 6 Credits.
  • 313110000-PM-08, Inspect, assess and maintain electrical and electronic components in wind turbines, Level 5, 5 Credits.
  • 313110000-PM-09, Inspect, assess and address composite parts and components, Level 5, 8 Credits.
    Total number of credits for Practical Skill Modules: 47.

    This qualification also requires the following Work Experience Modules:
  • 313110000-WM-01, Participation in planning and preparation processes, Level 5, 8 Credits.
  • 313110000-WM-02, Participation in diagnosis and resolution procedures of malfunctioning equipment, Level 5, 8 Credits.
  • 313110000-WM-03, Operations and maintenance processes, Level 5, 8 Credits.
  • 313110000-WM-04, Parts and component assembly and installation processes, Level 5, 8 Credits.
    Total number of credits for Work Experience Modules: 32. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Identify, select and set up all material, components, tools and equipment for installation and assembly of a wind turbine plant.
    2. Identify and address malfunctioning electrical, mechanical and hydraulic components of a wind turbine plant.
    3. Assemble and install component parts of a wind turbine to be a completely functional plant.
    4. Operate and maintain wind turbine and its subcomponents to function optimally. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Tools and equipment for rigging and climbing gear are identified, selected and used according to industry norms and standards.
  • The tools and equipment selected for working at heights and confined spaces are selected and correctly used in accordance with industry's best practice.
  • The faults on equipment are inspected and evaluated and reports are submitted to the relevant authority as well as faulty tools are identified for repair/maintenance or replacement.
  • Rigging signs are correctly placed and appropriate communication techniques are used during lifting and slinging operations to ensure that work is performed safely and optimally.
  • The equipment is prepared and slung in accordance with relevant Codes of Practice and standard operating procedures.
  • The Engineering tools are used correctly to measure and mark out a range of materials as per manufacturer's specifications.
  • The functioning and principles of operation of the different Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), as well as their usage are explained in terms of site-specific and operational requirements.
  • Significant hazards and risks related to wind turbine operations, their consequences and mitigating actions are explained with respect to each PPE impact on health and safety.
  • First-aid procedures are identified and carried out to comply with standard practices.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Electrical measuring instruments are correctly set up for application and handled in accordance with their specifications.
  • Drawing practices and specifications are explained with reference to projected views, materials and volumes requirements.
  • Placement of the programmable logic peripherals and processor on the back plane is correct according to the address structure of the back plane.
  • The correct sequence is used to monitor the on-line programme that resides in the processor.
  • The sequence of the operation is analysed according to electrical circuit diagram and manufacturer's specifications.
  • All worn, damaged and defective gearbox, pump, brakes, clutch, drive, lubricant system, hydraulic system, bearing, valves, ventilation and cooling systems, tower, rotor blades, pitch drive system, yaw system, generator, vibration damper devices and related components are correctly identified.
  • Diagnosis of faults is conducted for the composite material in accordance with standard industry fault-finding techniques.
  • Electrical and electronic components' faults are safely repaired according to work site procedures and gathered information.
  • Inspection checklists are correctly completed by identifying all observable faults in the composite material.
  • The consequences of not preparing to fault-find and repair the Direct Current (DC)-powered machine in line with company procedures and manufacturer's specifications are explained in terms of potential effect on the environment, occupational health, safety and production.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Planning and preparation of switchgear component assembly is demonstrated and planning guidelines are followed in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications and standard operating procedures.
  • Electrical connections on the switchgear assembly are marked to show torque settings at specified tensions.
  • Applicable test equipment is selected to conduct tests on basic electronic and three-phase circuits in accordance with work site procedures and statutory requirements.
  • The components of the basic electronic circuit board are laid out and visually checked for faults according to the circuit-and-layout diagram.
  • Construction, assembly and wiring of circuits are completed according to the design.
  • All components are fitted, assembled and labelled according to electrical drawings and statutory requirements.
  • Electrical cables are run out and installed in the cableways; cable gland or end is positioned, assembled and secured according to manufacturer's specifications.
  • Cable cores are visually phased, aligned, made-off, and connected according to numbering/colour coding and installation specifications.
  • The cable termination box cover plates are installed/closed and where applicable, filled with insulation compounds/resins as per manufacturer's specifications.
  • The applicable electrical instruments and control device specifications are determined and verified according to job specifications.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Electrical and electronic components are tested and measured and results are evaluated according to maintenance procedures.
  • Alternating Current (AC) machines and control gear are maintained according to manufacturer's specifications and maintenance procedures.
  • All the requirements of the selected maintenance operations that are covered by the maintenance plan for electrical and mechanical components are conducted.
  • Maintenance inspection sheet and documents are completed according to determined standard operating procedures.
  • Component testing demonstrates component functionality.
  • Maintenance and diagnosis of WEP follow industry practices.
  • System and operations of the plant are tested correctly following standard operating procedures.
  • Procedures are followed to inform role players about operational readiness of wind turbine plant.

    Integrated Assessment:
    Integrated Formative Assessment:
    The skills development provider will use the Curriculum to guide them on the stipulated internal assessment criteria and weighting. They will also apply the scope of practical skills and applied knowledge as stipulated by the internal assessment criteria. This formative assessment leads to entrance into the integrated external summative assessment.

    Integrated Summative Assessment:
    An external integrated summative assessment, conducted through the relevant Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) Assessment Quality Partner, is required for the issuing of this qualification. The external integrated summative assessment will focus on the Exit Level Outcomes and Associated Assessment Criteria. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The comparability study was undertaken to examine whether the Wind Turbine Service Technician qualification is comparable to international best standards in terms of the competencies that Wind Turbine Technicians are expected to attain upon completion of a qualification.

    United States of America:
    The National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) is a not-for-profit education foundation created in 1996. It was developed with the support of more than 125 construction CEOs and various association and academic leaders who united to revolutionise training for the construction industry. Sharing the common goal of developing a safe and productive workforce, these companies created standardised training and credential programmes for the industry. The NCCER in collaboration with the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA) have developed a Core Skill Set for Wind Turbine Service Technicians.

    The core skill set is as follows:
  • Demonstrate the ability to inspect the required personal protective equipment prior to use.
  • Properly and safely ascend and descend a 30-foot tower or comparable structure.
  • Under instructor supervision, measure the voltage from line to neutral and neutral to ground.
  • The ability to use an ohmmeter to measure the value of various resistors.
  • Prepare and terminate various low-voltage conductors and cables.
  • Select the appropriate conductor based on the ampacity, insulation type, and temperature rating using the National Electrical Code (NEC) tables.
  • Interpret hydraulic schematics and symbols; check hydraulic fluid levels; inspect and replace hydraulic system strainers and filters and charge an accumulator.
  • Perform necessary record keeping.

    Conclusion:
    This qualification has ensured that the international standard compiled for Wind Turbine Technicians' competencies has been met. In addition this qualification also enables learners to to be able to identify and address malfunctioning components of a wind turbine plant as well as to be able to operate and maintain a wind turbine and its subcomponents. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    Horizontal articulation is possible with:
  • Higher Certificate in Renewable Energy Technologies, Level 5 (ID 91825).

    Vertical articulation is possible with:
  • Diploma in Electrical Engineering, Level 6 (ID 97088).
  • Diploma in Electrical Engineering, Level 6 (ID 96856).
  • Bachelor of Engineering Technology in Electrical Engineering Level 7 (ID 94627). 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    NOTES 
    Qualifying for External Assessment:
    In order to qualify for an external assessment, learners must provide proof of completion of all required modules by means of Statements of Results and Work Experience Records, including Foundational Learning Competence.

    Additional legal or physical entry requirements:
  • None.

    Criteria for the accreditation of providers:
    Accreditation of providers will be done against the criteria as reflected in the relevant Curriculum on the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) website.

    The Curriculum title and code is: Wind Turbine Service Technician and 313110000.

    This qualification encompasses the following trades as recorded on the NLRD:
  • None.

    Part Qualifications
  • None. 
    		•

    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
     
    NONE 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.
     
    NONE 


    All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.