Understanding Solar Certificates

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Understanding Solar Certificates

If you’re thinking about going solar, or already have, you may have heard of a Certificate of Compliance and a Certificate of Conformity. These are both important documents, but they serve very different purposes. It’s easy to get them mixed up, especially because they’re often referred to by the same abbreviation: CoC.

Here’s a straightforward explanation of what each certificate means, when you need it, and why it matters.

1. Electrical Certificate
of Compliance (CoC)

This certificate focuses on the safety of your electrical system, including how your solar installation is connected to the rest of your home.

Issued by:

A qualified and registered electrician (approved by the Department of Employment and Labour)

What it does:

  • Confirms that all electrical work complies with the national wiring standards (SANS 10142)
  • Legally required for new electrical installations or alterations, including solar PV systems

Why it’s important:

  • Required by law under the Occupational Health and Safety Act
  • Essential when selling a home, applying for insurance, or connecting your solar system to the municipal supply

What it typically includes:

  • The electrician’s registration number
  • The installation address
  • A description of the work done (e.g., solar integration)
  • Safety test results for earthing, insulation and breakers
  • Signatures of both the electrician and the property owner
  • Usually issued on an official printed form with a serial number

How to get it:

Only a registered electrician may issue this certificate. It’s worth checking their credentials before any work begins.

2. Solar PV Certificate
of Conformity

Also known as a SAPVIA CoC or PV GreenCard, this certificate focuses on the solar system itself, like the panels, inverter, batteries and how they’re all designed and installed.

Issued by:

A solar installer who is accredited by SAPVIA (South African Photovoltaic Industry Association)

What it does:

  • Confirms the solar system design and installation meet SAPVIA’s best practice standards
  • Offers assurance that your system is properly sized, correctly installed and safe to use

Why it’s important:

  • While not legally required, it’s often requested by insurers or municipalities
  • Helpful when claiming warranties or proving that your solar setup is up to industry standard

What it typically includes:

  • Details of the system components (brands, models and sizes)
  • System layout and design specifications
  • Photos of the completed installation
  • Installer’s credentials and SAPVIA registration
  • Usually provided as a digital or printed PDF report

How to get it:

You’ll need to work with a SAPVIA-accredited installer. Make sure to ask for this certificate when your system is installed.

Quick Comparison

Feature

Electrical CoC

SAPVIA CoC / PV GreenCard
Required by law
 Yes No
Covers general electrical safety
 Yes No
Covers solar system design
 No Yes
Issued by
 Registered electrician SAPVIA-accredited installer
Common uses
 Legal compliance, property sales, insurance Quality assurance, insurer support, system records

Our Advice

For your solar system to be both compliant and insurable, we recommend having both certificates:

  • The Electrical CoC makes sure your installation is legally safe.
  • The SAPVIA CoC or PV GreenCard ensures your system meets quality and design standards.

If you’re unsure whether your system is correctly certified, or if you need help understanding your insurance requirements when it comes to solar, feel free to contact us. We’re here to help you navigate the process with confidence and clarity.