The Electrical Contractors’ Association of South Africa has raised serious concerns about safety and compliance issues in the rapidly growing solar power market, urging property owners to be cautious when installing solar photovoltaic (PV) systems. The association highlighted that an increasing number of unqualified individuals are attempting to certify solar installations, which could pose major risks to homeowners and businesses.
According to the association, only registered Installation Electricians and Master Installation Electricians are legally allowed to sign off on solar PV systems. However, a common problem in the market is the use of “Single Phase Testers” for certification. These individuals are not qualified to deal with the technical requirements of modern solar systems, especially those involving DC-coupled technology. The association warned that using unqualified personnel could result in serious consequences, including electrical fires, system failures, legal issues, and even the rejection of insurance claims.
The ECA SA stressed that all solar installations must comply with SANS 10142, which sets the safety requirements for electrical systems in the country. In addition, grid-connected solar systems must be registered as Small Scale Embedded Generators with local municipalities. Systems that are not registered may be considered illegal and could face penalties. Major utilities such as Eskom and the City of Cape Town have already enforced these rules and do not allow single-phase testers to approve solar projects.
The association also advised consumers to take extra steps to verify the credentials of installers before starting any solar project. Property owners are encouraged to request a valid wireman’s license and a registration card issued by the Department of Employment and Labour. These credentials can be checked with the Provincial Chief Inspector to confirm their authenticity. It is also recommended to ensure that contractors are registered with the Bargaining Council for the Electrical Industry and have accreditation from the SAPVIA PV GreenCard programme, which is considered a mark of quality in the solar sector.
The ECA SA stated that following these steps will help property owners protect their investments and ensure that their solar systems are safe and compliant. The association is also working with government authorities to strengthen regulations and improve enforcement. It emphasized that maintaining proper qualification standards is essential for ensuring safety and supporting the long-term growth of South Africa’s renewable energy sector.
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