Why Every Electrician Needs at Least a Basic Understanding of PV, Battery Storage and EV Charging Systems

For many electricians, the emergence of technologies such as solar photovoltaic (PV) power supply systems, battery electrical energy storage systems (EESS), and electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) has transformed parts of the industry. However, not every electrician has chosen to specialise in these areas, and many remain focused on more traditional installation, inspection and maintenance work.

That is perfectly understandable and certainly not unacceptable.

The electrical industry is broad, and no one can be expected to become an expert in every technology that appears on the market.

Nevertheless, there is an important reason why all electricians should develop at least a basic awareness of these technologies: sooner or later, they are likely to encounter them during a periodic inspection and testing process.

The Changing Nature of Electrical Installations

Electrical installations are evolving rapidly. What was a straightforward consumer unit or distribution board supplying lighting and power circuits not that long ago, may now include:

• Solar photovoltaic (PV) power supply systems

• Battery electrical energy storage system (EESS) installations

• Electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE)

• Smart energy management systems

• Grid-connected energy generation equipment for use by Prosumers

As these technologies become increasingly common in domestic, commercial and industrial premises, inspectors are far more likely to encounter them when performing a periodic inspection and test, and when entering the appropriate installation details into an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR).

Why Awareness Matters

An electrician carrying out a periodic inspection and test is not necessarily expected to be a specialist PV installer or EV charging equipment expert. However, they do need sufficient knowledge to recognise the presence of such systems and understand how they may affect the inspection process.

Without a basic understanding, there is a risk of missing safety concerns, failing to identify installation defects, misinterpreting test results, damaging equipment during testing, or exposing themselves or others to danger.

Identifying What You Are Looking At

One of the most valuable skills during any inspection is the ability to recognise equipment and understand its basic function.

A skilled inspector should be able to identify PV inverters, battery storage units, EV charge points, generation meters, disconnection devices, warning notices and labels, and connection arrangements to the installation.

Inspection Responsibilities

BS 7671 requires electrical installations to be inspected and tested by ‘one or more skilled persons, competent in such work’ (Regulation 651.5; BS 7671). Having this level of skills and competence includes having sufficient knowledge and experience relevant to the electrical installation being inspected.

Where this skill and competence is lacking, it may be appropriate to record limitations and recommend urgent further investigation by a suitably qualified inspector, though this could be costly and a disservice to the client.

Understanding the Risks

Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Power Supply Systems:

• Multiple sources of supply
• DC voltages remaining present after AC isolation
• Arc fault risks associated with DC circuits

Battery Electrical Energy Storage Systems (EESS):

• Stored electrical energy
  • Potential fault currents
  • Thermal runaway considerations
  • Alternative supply arrangements

EV Supply Charging Equipment:

• Additional earthing arrangements
• Protective device requirements
• Load management systems
• Interaction with PME supplies

The Importance of Continued Professional Development

Keeping up to date does not necessarily mean becoming a specialist installer in every emerging technology. However, it does mean understanding enough to safely inspect, assess and report on modern electrical installations.

Regular CPD activities such as industry seminars, technical articles, manufacturer training, IET guidance publications and short awareness courses can help electricians maintain the knowledge required for today’s increasingly diverse installations.

Final Thoughts

You may have no intention of installing solar PV systems, battery storage equipment or EV charging points. Your business may focus entirely on inspection, testing, maintenance or traditional electrical work.

However, these technologies are becoming a permanent feature of modern electrical installations. As a result, electrical inspectors are increasingly likely to encounter them during periodic inspections. Having a basic understanding of how these systems operate, the hazards they present, and the inspection considerations they introduce is no longer a specialist skill – it is becoming an essential part of being a skilled electrician.