Comprehensive Guide to Solar PV Management Legal Requirements in South Africa

This guide provides an in-depth overview of the legal, regulatory, and technical requirements for installing Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Management Systems in South Africa. It covers applicable legislation, standards, and processes, including the roles of electrical contractors, structural engineers, and Small-Scale Embedded Generation (SSEG) registration. Detailed cost tables are included to help homeowners and businesses plan their installations effectively. The guide is designed to ensure compliance, safety, and risk management, particularly for grid-tied systems that may feed power back into the municipal grid.

Important always use a SAPAC Stakeholder!

Contact SAPAC for assistance to a Trusted SAPAC Stakeholder in your area through the Request Access or Contact SAPAC on the front of our Home Screen or pressing this LINK

Contact SAPAC for assistance to a Trusted SAPAC Stakeholder in your area through the Request Access or Contact SAPAC on the front of our Home Screen or pressing this LINK

1. This is your introduction to Solar PV Management Systems

Solar PV Management Systems convert sunlight into electricity, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional power sources. In South Africa, the adoption of solar PV has surged due to load shedding, rising electricity costs, and supportive policies like tax rebates. However, these installations must comply with strict legal and technical requirements to ensure your safety, structural integrity, and grid compatibility.

2. Legal Framework Governing Solar PV Installations

2.1. Occupational Health and Safety Act (Act 85 of 1993)

The Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) is the primary legislation governing electrical installations in South Africa. Key provisions include:

• Regulation 5: Electrical installations must comply with South African National Standards (SANS) to ensure safety and reliability.
• Regulation 7: Only registered persons (e.g., Installation Electricians or Master Installation Electricians) may design, install, or alter electrical installations.
• Regulation 9: A Certificate of Compliance (CoC) is mandatory for all electrical installations, including solar PV systems, to verify adherence to standards.

2.2. Electrical Installation Regulations (2009)

Promulgated under the OHSA, these regulations specify:

• Only registered electrical contractors, employing Installation Electricians (IE) or Master Installation Electricians (MIE), may install solar PV systems. If they have in their employ a single phase tester that single phase tester must work under the direct general control of an installation or master installation electrician that is on site.
• Single-phase testers are not authorized to install solar PV systems due to the complexity of three-phase or DC systems.
• A CoC must be issued by the supervising IE or MIE, referencing the property’s original CoC. Meaning they must be on your site!
• Companies performing solar pv management installations and then obtaining a CoC from an "electrician" after the installation was performed must not happen. It is illegal and hurt the correct electricians. In such a way that electricians across South Africa, are sitting without the ability to employ legally operating personnel. SAPAC will press this issue unapologetically through all industry stakeholders, through all avenues.

2.3. National Building Regulations and Building Standards Act (Act 103 of 1977)

The National Building Regulations (NBR) govern structural and fire safety aspects of solar PV installations:

• SANS 10400-A: Requires a registered civil or structural engineer to plan, design, supervise, and certify structural alterations, including solar panel installations.
• SANS 10400-T: Outlines fire safety requirements, particularly for combustible materials like PV panels and DC wiring.
• SANS 10400-J1: Addresses occupancy classifications, ensuring installations align with the building’s intended use.

2.4. Electricity Regulation Act (Act 4 of 2006)

Amended in 2021, this act exempts private solar PV systems under 100 kW from requiring a generation license from the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA). However, systems above 100 kW must be registered with NERSA.

2.5. Municipal By-Laws

Local municipalities enforce additional requirements, including:

• Submission of an SSEG application to register grid-tied systems.
• Approval of architectural plans or structural assessments in many cases.
• Compliance with local zoning and environmental regulations.

3. Types of Electrical Contractors in South Africa

South Africa recognizes three categories of electrical professionals relevant to solar PV installations:

• Single-Phase Tester: Limited to testing single-phase installations. They are not authorized to install or certify solar PV systems.
• Installation Electrician (IE): Qualified to install and certify three-phase and solar PV systems under the supervision of a registered electrical contractor.
• Master Installation Electrician (MIE): Highly qualified to oversee complex installations, including solar PV systems, and issue CoCs.

Only registered electrical contractors employing IEs or MIEs may legally install solar PV systems. These contractors must be registered with the Department of Employment and Labour (DoEL). For clarity contact SAPAC through this [LINK]

Important always use a SAPAC Electrical Stakeholder!

Contact SAPAC for assistance to a Trusted SAPAC Stakeholder in your area through the Request Access or Contact SAPAC on the front of our Home Screen or pressing this LINK

4. Technical Standards for Solar PV Installations

4.1. SANS 10142-1:2020 (Wiring of Premises)

This standard governs low-voltage electrical installations, including solar PV systems. Key requirements include:

• Proper earthing and bonding of PV systems must be done correctly!
• Installation of DC circuit breakers and isolators.
• Compliance with inverter specifications (e.g., NRS 097-2-1:2017). [DOWNLOAD]

4.2. SANS 60364-7-712:2017

Adopted from IEC 60364-7-712, this standard addresses specific safety and technical requirements for solar PV systems, including:

• Protection against DC arcs.
• Safe wiring practices for high-voltage DC systems.

4.3. SANS 10400 Series

• SANS 10400-A: Structural design and supervision by a registered engineer.
• SANS 10400-T: Fire safety, including spacing of PV panels to prevent fire spread.
• SANS 10400-J1: Ensures installations align with occupancy requirements. [READ]

4.4. SANS/IEC 61215:2015 and SANS/IEC 61646:2016

These standards certify the quality and performance of crystalline silicon and thin-film PV modules, respectively. Compliance is often required by municipalities like the City of Cape Town.

4.5. NRS 097-2-1:2017

This standard governs grid-tied inverters, ensuring compatibility with the national grid. Approved inverters must be listed by municipalities or Eskom.

5. Small-Scale Embedded Generation (SSEG) Registration

Grid-tied solar PV systems must be registered with the local municipality or Eskom through an SSEG application. This process ensures:

• Grid compatibility and safety.
• Management of reverse power flow to mitigate risks for utility workers on overhead lines.
• Compliance with municipal by-laws.

SSEG Application Requirements

• Electrical CoC: Issued by an IE or MIE. [READ THIS COC GUIDE]
• Single Line Drawing (SLD): Signed by an ECSA-registered engineer (electrical, electronics, or mechatronics).
• Structural Assessment: Certified by a structural engineer.
• Inverter Approval: Proof of compliance with NRS 097-2-1.
• Signed Proxy Form: Authorizing the installer to act on the owner’s behalf (optional).
  

Important always use a SAPAC Structural Stakeholder!

Contact SAPAC for assistance to a Trusted SAPAC Stakeholder in your area through the Request Access or Contact SAPAC on the front of our Home Screen or pressing this LINK

Some municipalities, like the City of Cape Town, may require additional documents, such as proof of previous authorized projects.

6. Structural and Fire Safety Requirements

6.1. Structural Assessments

Solar PV panels add dead and live loads to rooftops, requiring a structural assessment by a registered civil or structural engineer. Key considerations include:

• Dead Load: Weight of panels and mounting structures (SANS 10160-1).
• Live Load: Maintenance access (SANS 10160-2).
• Wind Load: Resistance to uplift forces (SANS 10160-3).

6.2. Fire Safety

PV panels and DC wiring pose fire risks due to potential arcs. SANS 10400-T requires:

• Installation of panels on non-combustible surfaces or with adequate spacing.
• Battery storage in well-ventilated, fire-resistant areas (e.g., garages or anti-theft cabinets).
• Compliance with SANS 60364-7-712 Annex E for DC arc prevention.

6.3. Asbestos Roofing

Solar panels must and may not be installed on asbestos roofing due to health and safety risks. Installers suggesting otherwise violate the law and should be reported to the Electrical Approved Inspection Authority.

Important always use a SAPAC Asbestos Stakeholder!

Contact SAPAC for assistance to a Trusted SAPAC Stakeholder in your area through the Request Access or Contact SAPAC on the front of our Home Screen or pressing this LINK

7. Cost Considerations for Solar PV Installations

The following tables outline potential costs associated with legal and technical requirements for solar PV installations in South Africa. Costs vary by region, system size, and service provider. (Estimates may Vary)

Table 1: Electrical Contractor and CoC Costs (Estimates may Vary)

Service	Description	Estimated Cost (ZAR)	Notes
Installation Electrician (IE)	Installation and supervision of PV system	10,000–25,000	Depends on system size and complexity
Master Installation Electrician (MIE)	Oversight and CoC issuance	15,000–35,000	Higher for commercial systems
Electrical CoC	Certificate of Compliance for PV system	1,500–5,000	Includes testing and documentation
SLD Preparation	Single Line Drawing by ECSA engineer	5,000–15,000	Mandatory for SSEG registration

Table 2: Structural Engineering Costs (Estimates may Vary)

Service	Description	Estimated Cost (ZAR)	Notes
Structural Assessment	Roof load analysis (dead, live, wind)	8,000–20,000	Required for all rooftop installations
Structural Certification	Sign-off by Pr Eng or Pr Tech	5,000–12,000	Mandatory for compliance
Architectural Plans	Required by some municipalities	10,000–30,000	For new or modified structures

Table 3: SSEG and Municipal Compliance Costs (Estimates may Vary)

Service	Description	Estimated Cost (ZAR)	Notes
SSEG Application	Submission and processing	2,000–10,000	Varies by municipality
SSEG Consultant	Assistance with application	5,000–15,000	Optional but recommended
Municipal Permits	Building or zoning approvals	1,000–5,000	If required by local by-laws

Table 4: Additional Compliance Costs (Estimates may Vary)

Service	Description	Estimated Cost (ZAR)	Notes
Inverter Approval	Verification of NRS 097-2-1 compliance	2,000–5,000	May be included in installer quote
Battery Storage Compliance	Fire-resistant enclosure or cabinet	10,000–25,000	For hybrid systems

Note: Costs are indicative and based on 2023–2025 market trends. Obtain quotes from registered professionals for accurate pricing.

Note: Illegal self named contractors may look into these guides. Therefore ensure to reach always contact SAPAC.

Important always use a SAPAC Stakeholder!

Contact SAPAC for assistance to a Trusted SAPAC Stakeholder in your area through the Request Access or Contact SAPAC on the front of our Home Screen or pressing this LINK

8. Risks and Insurance Considerations

8.1. Risks of Non-Compliance

• Safety Hazards: Faulty installations can cause fires or electrical shocks.
• Insurance Rejection: Insurers may deny claims without a valid legal CoC or structural certification.
• Penalties: Municipalities may impose fines and will disconnect unauthorized systems.
• Grid Risks: Unregistered grid-tied systems endanger utility workers due to reverse power flow.

8.2. Insurance Requirements

Insurers typically require:

• A valid legal electrical CoC referencing the property’s original CoC.
• Structural certification by a registered engineer.
• SSEG registration for grid-tied systems.
• Proof of installer electrical licence and registration as a valid electrical contractor.
  

Important if unsure contact SAPAC for assistance!

Contact SAPAC for assistance to a Trusted SAPAC Stakeholder in your area through the Request Access or Contact SAPAC on the front of our Home Screen or pressing this LINK

9. Step-by-Step Guide to Compliance

1. Choose a Registered Installer:

   • Contact SAPAC to assist with a reliable registered electrical contractor in your area.
     

2. Conduct a Structural Assessment:

   • Contact SAPAC to assist with a reliable structural engineer in your area.
   • Obtain a certification letter for municipal submission.
     
     

3. Prepare Architectural Plans (if required):

   • Always submit plans to the municipality if altering the building structure.
     
     

4. Install the PV System:

   • Ensure compliance with SANS 10142-1, SANS 60364-7-712, and NRS 097-2-1.
   • Use approved inverters and certified PV panels.
   • Use a SAPAC Electrical stakeholder
     
     

5. Obtain an Electrical CoC:

   • Issued by the supervising IE or MIE after testing.
   • Must have a test report and photos 
   • Must not have alltertions or errors on the CoC
     

6. Submit SSEG Application:

   • Contact SAPAC to be put into contact with a professional SSEG consulting handling team.
     

7. Commission the System:

   • Obtain final approval from the municipality or Eskom.
   • Ensure warranties and manuals are provided.

10. Additional Resources

• SAPAC: Connects homeowners with registered contractors (https://sapac.co.za).
• City of Cape Town: Solar installation guidelines (https://inpower.co.za).
• NERSA: Registration for systems above 100 kW (https://www.nersa.org.za).

11. SAPAC Rationale 

Installing a Solar PV Management System in South Africa requires careful adherence to legal, technical, and municipal requirements. By engaging registered SAPAC Electrical electrical contractors, SAPAC structural engineers, and SAPAC SSEG consultants, homeowners and businesses can ensure compliance, safety, and eligibility for the incentives like tax rebates or feed-in tariffs. This guide, with its detailed cost tables and regulatory insights, aims to empower stakeholders to navigate the process effectively.

References

• Understanding Inverter and Solar Panel Installation Regulations in South Africa, SAPAC, 2024-02-17. [LINK]
• Frequently Asked Questions on Electrical Solar PV Management Panels and Systems, SAPAC, 2023-11-28. [LINK]
• Important Information about Eskom Going After People with Solar Panels, MyBroadband, 2025-04-22. [LINK]
  
• Legal Requirements for Solar PV Management Systems, SAPAC, 2024-02-16. [LINK]
• Do You Need Permission to Install Solar Panels in South Africa?, SSESA, 2024-03-29.
• Do I Need Permission from Eskom to Install Solar Panels?, SAPAC, 2023-10-30. [LINK]
• Solar Panels – Installing Home Solar, Miltons Matsemela, 2023-03-06.
• Navigating the Risks of Your Solar Energy Installation, Aon South Africa, 2023-10-13.
• Warning about Solar Power Systems in South Africa, Glenwood Brokers, 2025-04-04.
• Electrical, Structural, and Fire Compliance for Solar Installations, SAPAC, 2024-10-14. [LINK]