The public is reminded that there are certain stringent protocols to follow when having a solar power system installed at a premises.
Breede Valley Municipality is asking the public to follow these guidelines for the safe and legal installation of embedded generation systems.
These are electricity generation plants or storage devices for private usage which are connected to the municipal distribution network:. All existing and new embedded generation systems must be registered and approved in writing by the municipality.. Application forms can be collected at the Helpdesk office at the Electrical Services Department (Mark Street, Worcester) or it can be electronically requested via email at elecapplications@bvm.gov.za. Illegally connected systems could compromise the safety of your private electrical installation as well as the municipal network.. The due date to register for municipal approval is 30 June 2024 to avoid any additional service charges or possible electrical disconnections.. All solar panel installations must be performed by a registered installation electrician and must be green card or P4 accredited.. An electrical certificate of compliance (CoC) must be issued to the owner after the installation work is complete (SANS 10142:1 compliant).. The completed embedded generation system must be evaluated and signed off by an accredited professional electrical engineer (PrEng).
Important key areas:
. The owner remains responsible for the structural integrity of the roof construction when roof solar panels are installed. A structural assessment can be performed by a professional structural engineer for the additional weight of the PV panel on the roof construction.. Installers of embedded generation systems must ensure that all inverters comply with NRS097-2-1 [all new installations as from 01/10/2023 must be in full compliance with NRS097-2-1 (specifically 2017 edition)].Poorly installed and illegally connected embedded generation systems may cause:. exposure to the risk of electrical fires and electric shock.. safety and the power quality. violations on the electricity network. safety risks and electric shock to electricity staff working on the municipal network.
All technical enquiries must please be directed to the Electrical Services Department at 023 348 8013.
