Electrial Union Wants Electricians to Install Solar Photovoltaic Systems

The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 1186 is requesting that the state of Hawaii require the use of a licensed electrician for all phases of the installation of solar photovoltaic systems. According to the IBEW, under state law the installation of solar systems meet the definition of "electrical work" and as a results would need a licensed electrician for every nonlicensed electrical worker on the job site.  According to the business manager for IBEW Local 1186, Damien Kim, there has been concern that some photovolatic systems have been install incorrectly by unlicensed individuals.  Kim stated, "The PV industry has exploded. All of these new companies have been started and they're overwhelmed with the amount of work. We're saying let's make sure it's done properly and safely. We just want to make sure it is being done in accordance with the language in the statute."

However, officials from the Hawaii Solar Energy Association contends that the majority of the work can be safely done by nonlicensed employees and a licensed electrician should only be required to do the final wiring.  Of course, having licensed electricians present for all phases on installation would dramatically increase the costs for the solar company.

Source: Honolulu Star Advertiser, 11-4-2013, www.staradvertiser.com
Posted by Jeff Uyemura-Reyes, Broker-in-Charge, REALTOR®
Global Executive Realty, LLC
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