Residential Electrical Expo to Co-Locate With EHX Spring

Some of the new "green" technologies, like solar power via photovoltaic panels, are becoming more popular than ever among consumers.

Electricians are at the forefront of that technology.

That is just one reason this year's EHX Spring (March 11-15, Orlando, Fla.) will be offering some special insight into the needs of line-voltage electricians at the Residential Electrical Expo, co-located at the show and sponsored by the Independent Electrical Contractors Association (IEC).

The REX will be holding 16 hours of training, which will include:

• An overview of the changes made to the electrical code.


• Marketing advice for electricians for reaching existing homes.


• Residential lighting control information.


• Notes on worker's compensation.


• Ways to make money selling advanced electrical products.

The timing of the seminars couldn't be better. 2008 is a license renewal year for electricians who will be required to take 14 hours of continuing education units (CEUs) by September to earn a license.

"The show is a great convenience for electricians because they can earn all their CEUs in one place over three days," says Shawn Smith, vice president of Oldsmar, Fla.-based S&S Electric, and a CEA TechHome Division board member.

"There are two big issues in the new electrical code that everyone needs to be aware of," Smith says.

"Both tamper-resistant outlets and arc-fault circuit interrupters will now be required throughout the home."

According to Smith, the exact adoption status of the IEC 2008 Code in the state of Florida is not known at this point. Electrical licensing in the state is administered by the State Department of Business and Professional Regulations.

Regarding solar power, Smith says his company receives two to three inquiries per week from consumers. "Many electricians are in the dark about solar power. That's why we are holding these classes."

He adds, "The solar power manufacturers want electricians to adopt it into their businesses, but there is a lack of installers right now."

The state of Florida offers a rebate of up to $14,000 for a photovoltaic installation, depending on the cost of the system.

The IEC classes take place every hour on the hour starting Wednesday, March 12 at 11 a.m. and continue until Friday, March 14 at 4 p.m. There is also an IEC membership cocktail party on Thursday, March 13 from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m.