Photovoltaic systems - electrical licensing requirements

Installation and maintenance of photovoltaic (PV) systems and associated wiring systems which operate at more than 120 volts DC or 50 volts AC (extra low voltage) must only be performed by a person with an appropriate electrical work licence. In addition where electrical work is performed as part of a business or undertaking, it must be performed under the authority of an electrical contractor licence.

While the output of an individual PV panel may be extra low voltage, once PV panels are connected in a series, the system may have an operating voltage in excess of 120 volts DC or 50 volts AC.

When this happens, the installation of wiring systems that connect the panels and provide low voltage supply to a device such as an inverter must only be carried out by a licensed electrical mechanic.

Even though interconnecting wiring between PV panels may be connected by devices such as plug-in connectors, the installation of wiring including the associated connecting devices is still regarded as installation wiring and must only be installed by a licensed person.

A person without an electrical work licence is permitted to locate, mount or fix in place electrical equipment including PV arrays.

The subsequent making or terminating of electrical connections to the equipment or installation-supply conductors that will connect the equipment to a supply of electricity, may only be carried out by a licensed electrical mechanic and under the authority of a licensed electrical contractor.