Focus

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 system installations.

Certification is valid for three years. Recertification can be achieved by participating in continuing education courses and paying a recertification fee.

Half-day exams will be held the week of Dec. 6 in various cities based on candidates' locations. The exam also will be offered Feb. 18, 2011, in conjunction with the 2011 International Roofing Expo® in Las Vegas and in May 2011. The application fee is $150, and the exam fee is $350.

Next month, Professional Roofing will provide an in-depth look at the new program. More information also is available at www.riseprofessional.org.

Ambika Puniani Bailey is editor of Professional Roofing and NRCA's senior director of communications.