Electrical industry concerned about botched solar installations
23 December 2011
Electrical industry concerned about botched solar installations
Today, peak Australian electrical industry body, the National Electrical and Communications Association (NECA), expressed concern at a report released by EnergySafety entitled Electrical safety of grid-connected solar installations in Western Australia.
The report details that 12% (approximately 2,500) domestic solar installations in WA carry a significant risk of fire.
General Manager of NECA Western Australia, Mr Kyle Kutasi, says that solar installation regulations require a dramatic overhaul to ensure these risks are reduced.
“Presently there is no clarity as to who is regulating the solar industry. The State and Federal Governments both have rules and regulations, which often overlap and contradict each other.
“Solar installers are not required to be licensed; only those persons who do the electrical wiring need to be licensed electrical contractors. The majority of regulation of the solar industry is done by the Clean Energy Council, which is a private corporation that has been given extraordinary powers by the Federal Government. NECA believes that all solar installers should require an electrical contracting licence.
“The vast majority of electrical contractors who perform solar installations are trained and experienced. The fact that unqualified operators are able to participate in our industry will only ensure that unsafe practice continue. NECA has raised this with the Federal Government repeatedly but they have said it is not a priority for them.
“If anyone has concerns that their solar installation is unsafe, they should call their licensed electrical contractor to arrange a safety inspection.”
-ENDS-
NECA is the peak industry body representing the interests of electrical and communications contractors Australia-wide.
Media Enquiries and Interviews:
Kyle Kutasi – General Manager
NECA Western AustraliaPh: 0433 123 865