Changes to licensing requirements for plug in style refrigerated cabinets

4 January 2021

Current requirements for installing refrigerated display cabinets

Our current training/licensing requirements for installers specify that a licenced electrician is required to install a refrigerated display cabinet (activity 32) under the VEU program.

However, we are now aware that there are two distinct types of refrigerated display cabinets (RDC):

• A remote RDC which is normally a larger unit, where the compressor is housed externally to the main unit and requires an electrician to install.
• An integral RDC which is normally a smaller unit, where the compressor is housed within the cabinet. These operate as a “plug in” unit like a domestic fridge.

Update to training/licensing requirements

We recognise that ‘plug in’ RDC installations do not typically need a licensed electrician registered with Energy Safe Victoria for installation, and that having a licensed electrician to install these products creates a barrier to the roll out of the activity and is disproportionate to the safety risks.

We have modified the training/licensing requirement for activity 32 in our Appliance Activity Guide to reflect this.   

Claiming certificates in the VEU registry

The VEU registry system requires accredited persons and installers to input information into the “electrician licence number” field when submitting a VEEC creation claim for all RDC installations.

You should enter ‘N/A’ into this field where a licensed electrician is not required for the installation (i.e. for installation of a ‘plug in’ RDC).

Where to get help

If you have any questions or feedback about this program update, please contact VEU Support on (03) 9032 1310 or veu@esc.vic.gov.au.