In a significant development for homeowners and businesses with solar PV systems, the Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (OUTA) has urged the public to delay registering their installations with Eskom. This recommendation comes after a constructive meeting with Eskom Distribution, where OUTA raised concerns over the utility’s mandatory registration and compliance requirements.
Similar to OUTA, the Electrical Contractors’ Association of South Africa (ECA(SA)) has also voiced a similar opinion, advocating against Eskom’s requirement for an Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA) sign-off on residential solar installations. Both organizations contend that a valid Certificate of Compliance (CoC) issued by a registered electrical contractor should be sufficient, as mandated by existing regulations such as the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Act and the SANS 10142-1 standard.
Both OUTA and the ECA(SA) have actively engaged with the relevant authorities. OUTA has had public and private engagements, including meetings with Eskom Distribution and plans for further discussions with regulatory bodies like the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA). The ECA(SA) also participates in similar parallel conversations, contributing their expertise in the electrical contracting industry to ensure that the regulatory framework is practical and fair.
ECA(SA) Accredited Training
To address the need for skilled and competent professionals in the industry, the ECA(SA) offers a range of accredited training courses at their Meadowdale Training Centre. These programs are designed to empower individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to ensure installations are safe and compliant.
The courses available include:
- Module 0-3 & ELCONOP 2: A foundational course covering essential electrical principles and safety regulations.
- Module 4-6 & ELCONOP 3: An advanced course that builds on the foundational modules, focusing on complex electrical systems, fault finding, and advanced wiring techniques.
- Electric Fence System Installer: A specialized course on the installation, maintenance, and repair of electric fencing, including regulations and safety protocols.
- Evening Class Modules 0-6: An evening program that covers the full scope of Modules 0-6, designed to accommodate different schedules.
- Solar Mounter and Service Technician: A course that covers the principles of solar PV systems, from installation and mounting to troubleshooting and maintenance. This course can be taken as a “Standalone Service Technician” or a “Standalone System Mounter” option.
These courses, listed on the ECA(SA) Training page, focus on garnering competence and provide a clear path to professional growth and excellence in the solar PV sector.
angie@ecasa.co.za or 011 392 00 00
