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Solar Installer Certifications South Africa

Last updated: February 2026

Protect yourself by understanding installer certifications. Verified credentials mean safer installations and better warranty protection.

Quick answer: Always verify COC capability. Look for ECA or PV GreenCard for quality assurance.

Why Certifications Matter

Using an uncertified installer can void your equipment warranty, invalidate home insurance claims, make your installation illegal, and leave you without recourse if problems occur. Always verify credentials before signing a contract.

Essential Certifications

These certifications are critical for any solar installation. The COC is legally required.

Important Certifications

These certifications indicate professionalism and may be required for specific situations.

Beneficial Certifications

These certifications are beneficial for specific use cases like government tenders.

All Certifications at a Glance

CertificationIssuing BodyPriorityLearn More
Certificate of Compliance (COC)Registered Electrical ContractorsEssentialView Details
Electrical Contractors Association (ECA)ECA South AfricaEssentialView Details
PV GreenCardSAPVIA & GreenCapeEssentialView Details
South African Bureau of Standards (SABS)SABSImportantView Details
South African Photovoltaic Industry AssociationSAPVIAImportantView Details
SANS 10142SABSImportantView Details
National Energy Regulator of South AfricaNERSAImportantView Details
Construction Industry Development BoardCIDBImportantView Details
Broad-Based Black Economic EmpowermentVerification AgenciesBeneficialView Details

Certification FAQs

At minimum: Registration with the Department of Employment and Labour (to issue COC), and ideally ECA membership or PV GreenCard certification. SAPVIA membership is a good sign of professionalism. The more certifications, the better protected you are.
The COC (Certificate of Compliance) is legally required. Without it, your installation is technically illegal and may void insurance. ECA membership and PV GreenCard are the next most important as they indicate quality and solar-specific expertise.
Ask for certification numbers and verify them: Check the DoEL database for electrical registration, the ECA website for membership, and SAPVIA for member companies. We provide links to verification databases on each certification page.
No, DIY electrical work is illegal in South Africa. Only registered electrical contractors can do electrical installations and issue COCs. Using an unregistered person could void your insurance and leave you liable for accidents.
You won't receive a valid COC, your installation is illegal, your insurance may be void, you have no recourse if something goes wrong, and your equipment warranty may be affected. Always verify certifications before hiring.

Find Certified Installers

Browse our directory of verified solar installers with confirmed certifications.