Electrical industry welcomes expanded solar panel inspections
25 May 2011
Electrical industry welcomes expanded solar panel inspections
Today, peak Australian electrical industry body, the National Electrical and Communications Association (NECA), welcomed an announcement by the New South Wales Government to inspect a further 500 solar panels in Sydney to ensure the installations are safe for consumers and comply with regulations.
The announcement to undertake more checks was made today by Fair Trading Minister Mr Anthony Roberts.
NECA NSW chief executive, Mr Lindsay Le Compte, said electrical contractors support further inspections of solar panels because electrical safety must be guaranteed in any electrical installation.
“NECA supports the move to inspect the installations of solar panels to ensure they comply with the existing electrical and building regulations,” Mr Le Compte said.
“Electrical safety is paramount during any electrical installation. Solar panels are subject to the same regulations as other electrical installations and this is why the installation needs to be conducted by people with the appropriate licence.
“There are plenty of installers that have done the right thing but I think it is important to make sure that consumers are confident their solar panels are safe and more inspections will address this.”
NECA advises consumers to only engage licensed contractors who are accredited to install solar panels.
-ENDS-
NECA is the peak industry body representing the interests of electrical and communications contractors Australia-wide.
Media Enquiries and interviews:
Mr Lindsay Le Compte
NECA NSW Chief executive
02 9744 1099