Certificate of Compliance (COC) for Solar
Last updated: February 2026
The COC is a legal requirement for all electrical installations in South Africa. Without it, your solar system is technically illegal.
A Certificate of Compliance (COC) is a legal document that confirms your electrical installation meets South African safety standards. Every solar installation requires a COC. Without it, you cannot legally connect to the grid, and your home insurance may be void.
What is a COC?
The Certificate of Compliance is a document issued by a registered electrical contractor confirming that an electrical installation complies with the Electrical Installation Regulations. For solar installations, the COC covers the entire system from panels to inverter to grid connection. It proves the installation is safe and meets SANS 10142 wiring standards.
The Certificate of Compliance is a document issued by a registered electrical contractor confirming that an electrical installation complies with the Electrical Installation Regulations. For solar installations, the COC covers the entire system from panels to inverter to grid connection. It proves the installation is safe and meets SANS 10142 wiring standards.
Who Issues the COC?
Only registered persons can issue a COC:
- Registered electrical contractors with the Department of Employment and Labour
- Must have a valid wireman's license
- Must carry professional indemnity insurance
- The installer who did the work typically issues the COC
- You can also get an independent inspection if needed
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Why the COC Matters for Homeowners
The COC protects you in several ways:
- Legal requirement: Operating without a COC is illegal
- Insurance: Many insurers require a valid COC for claims
- Property sale: You need a COC when selling your home
- Grid connection: Municipalities require COC for grid-tied systems
- Warranty: Equipment manufacturers may require COC for warranty claims
- Safety: Ensures your system won't cause fires or electrocution
How to Verify COC Validity
Ensure your COC is legitimate:
- Check the contractor's registration on the DoEL database
- Verify the unique COC certificate number
- Ensure it covers your specific installation
- Keep the original in a safe place
- Request a copy from your installer if you don't have one
What the COC Inspection Covers
| aspect | requirement |
|---|---|
| Wiring | Complies with SANS 10142 wiring code |
| Earth leakage | Functional earth leakage protection installed |
| Surge protection | Adequate surge protection for solar equipment |
| Isolation | DC and AC isolators properly installed |
| Labeling | All components clearly labeled |
| Panel mounting | Panels securely mounted and weatherproofed |
| Inverter installation | Inverter properly ventilated and accessible |
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