For the users of photovoltaic (PV) systems, business and residential customers alike, it is critical that those who perform PV installations have the proper training and experience. It is also vital that oversight of solar electric projects is provided by qualified wire inspectors that examine all aspects of the electrical installation. It is a matter of protecting public safety as well as having assurance that an appropriate, quality solar electric installation has been provided.
There are those that are trying to downplay the importance of having qualified personnel install PV systems and are seeking to exempt photovoltaic/solar electric projects in Massachusetts, via House Bill 1004, from existing state regulation and oversight. NECA remains fully in support of the existing regulations that affirm that solar installations are indeed electrical installations and therefore must be installed by trained and licensed electrical professionals.
The installation of photovoltaic power systems is well covered by what has long been State law in Massachusetts – M.G.L. Ch. 141S 1. The statute reads, “No person, firm or corporation shall enter into, engage in or work at the business of installing wires, conduits, apparatus, fixtures or other appliances for carrying or using electricity for light, heat or power purposes, unless such person, firm or corporation have received a license and a certificate therefore, issued by the state examiners of electricians and in accordance with the provisions hereinafter set forth.” The language of this statute is unambiguous. It certainly applies to the installation of photovoltaic systems, which require wiring to enable the conversion of sunlight into electricity, which is used to light, heat and power our homes, educational facilities, and businesses.
For the last 96 years, the contractors of the Electrical Contractors Association of Greater Boston (NECA) have abided by the regulations of the State Examiners of Electricians. We have gained the necessary training and experience to qualify as “Master Electricians.” In a 2009 ruling, The Massachusetts Board of State Examiners of Electricians (BEEE) reinstated its determination that photovoltaic systems in Massachusetts are required to be installed, repaired and maintained only by a licensed journeyman electrician or a properly supervised apprentice. It is a determination that will continue to serve the Commonwealth and its citizens well.
NECA and our electrical industry partners, the IBEW, are well prepared to meet the increasing demand for photovoltaic installations. We have, for years, been training apprentices and journeymen electricians in photovoltaics. The contractors of our Association have adeptly performed dozens of solar installations, just a few of which are documented on these pages. These PV projects, and many others that are underway by our experienced electrical contractors, will continue to positively impact the business community and residential customers throughout the region for years to come. They are projects that have been and will be installed to meet all Electrical Codes and specifications. We applaud the State Board of Electrical Examiners for their ruling that confirms that PV system installations be handled by properly trained personnel, and with the oversight of electrical examiners and wire inspectors. NECA looks forward to continuing to build a safer, brighter and renewable future for Massachusetts.
Glenn Kingsbury is the executive manager of National Electrical Contractors Association Boston Chapter