Renewable Energy Professional (REP) License

The state mandates that anyone installing or servicing solar photovoltaic (PV) systems hold a Renewable Energy Professional (REP) License issued by the Rhode Island Office of Energy Resources (OER). 

REP License Qualifications:

There are several ways to qualify for a REP license:

• Must hold current certification from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) as a PV Installation Professional or Solar Heating Installer.
• Possess a UL's PV Installer Certification Program certificate.
• Have an Associate's degree or higher in renewable energy technology or solar PV installation from an accredited school.
• Demonstrate at least six years of experience in the electrical trade with a journeyman electrician's license for at least two years (License Certificate A).
• Show proof of 4 years of apprentice electrical experience (License Certificate B).

REP License Application: The OER website offers information and resources for applying for a REP license, including application forms and fees: https://energy.ri.gov/renewable-energy/solar/renewable-energy-professional-rep

Additional Considerations:

• Electrical Work and Potential Subcontracting: While the REP license covers general solar PV installations, a licensed electrician's involvement is crucial for electrical work on the project. Here's how to address this
  • Hold a Rhode Island Electrical Contractor License: Ideal for businesses specializing in solar, allowing them to handle the project's electrical and general contracting aspects.
  • Subcontract with a Licensed Electrician: If you need to possess an electrical contractor license yourself, partner with a licensed electrician who oversees the electrical work on your solar projects.

Local Permits: A separate electrical permit from your local jurisdiction is usually required for solar installations. 

This information has been referenced from the following site.