A new distinction | FocusAmbika Puniani Bailey
The growing popularity of roof-mounted photovoltaic (PV) system
installations has spurred a bit of a turf war between electricians
and roofing contractors, both of whom believe they have the right
to perform such work. And as the trades compete for market share,
building owners are becoming increasingly confused regarding whom
to hire.
To help clarify the situation, NRCA and the Center for Environmental Innovation
in Roofing have founded Roof Integrated Solar Energy
(RISE) Inc. RISE certifies solar roofing professionals so they
can demonstrate to building owners they have the skills, expertise
and credentials needed to install roof-mounted PV systems.
Those earning RISE certification will be known as Certified
Solar Roofing Professionals (CSRPs). To earn certification, an
individual must be at least 18 years old, meet prerequisite
experience and education criteria, complete an application form,
sign a code of ethics and professional conduct, pay applicable fees
and pass a written exam.
No course work is required to pass the exam; however, RISE
offers information about the publications and classes that can help
candidates prepare for the exam. The exam will focus on planning
and implementing safety requirements; identifying structural, roof
assembly and PV system design issues; applying basic electrical
system principles and practices; estimating, contracting and
selling roof-mounted PV systems; and managing and directing
roof-mounted PV...
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