For installers · Checked November 5, 2026

Colorado PV installer registration: who needs it and who can't use it

If your company isn't a registered electrical contractor and does photovoltaic electrical work under 300 kW, the deadline to register as a photovoltaic installer is December 31, 2026. The class appears built for companies already doing this work by September 1, 2025, so a new company may need a different route. Ask the State Electrical Board if that applies to you.

Why this registration exists

SB25-165 changed who can do this work. For installations under 300 kW, only an electrical contractor or a photovoltaic installer may perform or offer to perform photovoltaic electrical work (C.R.S. 12-115-107(2)(f)(III)). Installations of at least 300 kW must be done by licensed master electricians, journeyman electricians, residential wiremen, or properly supervised apprentices (C.R.S. 12-115-107(2)(f)(II)).

Who qualifies

Under C.R.S. 40-2-128(2)(a.5), a photovoltaic installer is a contractor that:

• Is not a registered electrical contractor
• Registered with the State Electrical Board by December 31, 2026
• Is a business in good standing with the state and registered with the Secretary of State
• Was performing photovoltaic electrical work as of September 1, 2025
• Employs a NABCEP PV Installation Professional

The Division of Professions and Occupations application page words the work test as "on or before September 1, 2025," and also requires one or more designated agents.

Can a new solar company register?

Read plainly, probably not. A company that began photovoltaic work after September 1, 2025 can't meet the work test. It would likely need to work as or through a registered electrical contractor. We haven't seen a Board statement on this exact question, so confirm it with the Board before you build a business plan around either route.

How to prepare

1. Check your status. Registered electrical contractors don't use this class.
2. Document your work date. Gather records showing photovoltaic work on or before September 1, 2025.
3. Confirm your NABCEP employee. The person must be certified by NABCEP to install photovoltaic systems.
4. Check your Secretary of State record. Confirm your registration and good standing.
5. Name your agents. The law allows more than one. See the rule below.
6. Apply online. The state's system lists "Photovoltaic Installer - Initial Registration by Original Method." Start from the application page.

The agent rule can end a registration

If no designated agent remains affiliated with the contractor, the registration is invalid and ineligible for reinstatement (C.R.S. 12-115-110(7)(c)). If you rely on one person, a resignation could become a licensing problem.

On-site supervision

For installations under 300 kW, photovoltaic electrical work, module installation, and mounting are subject to on-site supervision. That can be a certified practitioner working for a photovoltaic installer, or a licensed master electrician, journeyman electrician, or residential wireman (C.R.S. 40-2-128(1)). AC-side work must still be performed by an electrical contractor using licensed electricians (C.R.S. 40-2-128(1)(b)). This unofficial copy predates SB25-165, so confirm the current text.

What we couldn't confirm

• The application page doesn't list the fee. The law says a fee shall be charged (C.R.S. 12-115-117(1)(m)).
• Local licenses are separate. Check each city or county where you work.
• This page explains the rule and isn't legal advice.