The deadline for solar PV cables to comply with AS/NZS 5033 has been extended until 19 November 2022 in Queensland.

WorkSafe Queensland has announced the delay to the introduction of AS/NZS 5033 Installation and safety requirements for photovoltaic (PV) arrays.

Electrical contractors must ensure compliance criteria for solar PV cables are met before they are installed, and suppliers must ensure equipment criteria are met before sale.

AS/NZS 5033:2021 requires solar PV cable, that are not installed underground, to now comply with IEC 62930 Electric cables for photovoltaic systems with a voltage rating of 1.5 kV DC.

The extended six-month period to 19 November 2022 will allow suppliers to sell existing cable, and installers to install that cable, subject to the conditions listed below.

The change in requirements for solar PV cable provides updated safety standards to relevant international electrotechnical (IEC) standards and is part of continuous improvements in safety standards applied. The extension will not compromise the safety of workers or the community, however we encourage installers to use cable complying with the latest standard, IEC 62930.

If using solar PV cable complying to the requirements of the 2014 edition of AS/NZS 5033, the responsible supplier (importer) must:

• confirm the solar PV cable was already imported into Australia before 19 May 2022
• ensure they are registered as a responsible supplier of that cable on the Electrical Equipment Safety System (EESS)
• have evidence the cable complies with one of the relevant safety standards listed in AS/NZS 5033:2014 (PV1-F from TUV 2 PfG 1169/08.2007, or UL 4703, or VDE-AR-E 2283-4).

If you need assistance with Standards, Master Electricians have unlimited access to the MEA Technical Hotline. Speak direct to the experts, phone 1300 889 198. 

MORE FROM MEA

• Action taken against licence holders for breaches
• Worker killed in ute incident