What does “certification” mean for an electrical installation?

In everyday language, the term “certification” is often used to mean different things. In Spain, for an electrical installation, depending on the case, it can involve various technical documents, certificates, and, where applicable, inspections.

These can include, for example:

• Certificado de Instalación (CI / Boletín Eléctrico)
• CAI – Certificado de Adaptación de la Instalación
• Memoria Técnica de Diseño (MTD)
• Proyecto Técnico
• where applicable, an OCA inspection
• the subsequent registration with the Consejería de Industria

Which route is required depends on the type and scope of the installation.

Which document is required for your installation?

📄 C.I. / Boletín Eléctrico

The Certificado de Instalación (C.I.) is the standard document proving a new or significantly modified electrical installation.

📑 C.A.I

For certain extensions or modifications to an existing installation, a Certificado de Adaptación de la Instalación may be required instead of a new C.I.

📐 Proyecto Técnico

For certain larger or more technically complex installations, an MTD isn’t sufficient on its own. In that case, a Proyecto Técnico prepared by an engineer is also required.

✔ OCA inspection

For certain installations, an additional independent inspection by an authorized control body (Organismo de Control Autorizado) is also required.

How does certification work?

1️⃣ Review of the starting situation

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2️⃣ Determining the required scope of documentation

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3️⃣ Technical inspection of the electrical installation

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4️⃣ Preparation of the required technical documents

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5️⃣ Where applicable, further review by an engineer or an OCA

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6️⃣ Submission to the Consejería de Industria

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7️⃣ Registration of the installation

When might certification be required?

For example, in the case of:

• a new installation
• significant modifications or extensions
• a capacity increase (Potencia)
• certain changes to the existing installation
• certain commercial or technical installations
• a required official registration
• certain requirements from the grid operator

And now an important point:

Which document and which procedure are required in your specific case depends on the type of installation and the change being planned.

Not sure whether you need a Boletín Eléctrico?

I’ll review your particular situation and tell you which documentation is actually required.