The new Canadian Electrical Code (CEC) has incorporated the latest sustainability requirements for electrical professionals, as well as business and home owners. The Canadian Standards Association (CSA) 22nd edition of the CEC’s mandatory guidelines include 180 important updates and revisions. CSA Standards is a leading standards-based solutions organization in Canada. The CEC addresses electrical safety, shock, and fire hazards of electrical products.
On February 6, 2012, the CSA officially announced the launch of the 2012 CEC, Part 1. The code includes sections on renewable energy sources (ie solar photovoltaic installations, wind generated electricity) and new requirements for electric vehicles and charging stations (both commercial and residential). By 2018, there will be at least a half a million 500,000 plug-in electric-drive vehicles on Canadian roads, and even more hybrids.
According to a CSA press release, the New Canadian Electrical Code represents the most comprehensive set of changes ever. The guidelines include future-looking developments toward sustainable technologies that help address climate change issues.
The code also covers unique installation requirements for a variety of renewable energy systems including wind and fuel cells. Hydrokinetic generation systems that convert tidal or ocean current into energy, and micro-hydro systems that are very small versions of hydro power stations that convert the energy of streams creeks into usable electricity, are also covered. Lastly, existing requirements for solar power have been updated considerably to reflect new technologies, techniques, and calculations. CSA’s 2012 Canadian Electrical Safety Code may also be considered a roadmap for the enhanced safety and success of electric vehicles.
As stated by Bonnie Rose, President, CSA Standards. “With major manufacturers bringing these products to market in greater numbers, they can no longer be considered simply emerging technologies, but part of our daily lives.”
© 2012, Richard Matthews. All rights reserved.
