Key Delaware Amendments to the NEC: What Pros Must Know

The Great Leap Forward: Delaware Adopts the 2020 NEC

In a decisive move, the Delaware Fire Prevention Commission officially adopted the 2020 edition of NFPA 70, also known as the National Electrical Code, with an effective date of September 1, 2021. By skipping the 2017 NEC entirely, Delaware created a significant knowledge gap for electricians accustomed to the 2014 rules. Suddenly, professionals were faced with integrating seven years of code evolution into their daily work. The NEC, published by the National Fire Protection Association, is the bedrock of electrical safety, and understanding its intricacies is fundamental. If you need a refresher on the basics, you can explore our article on what the NFPA 70 is and why it matters. This adoption of the 2020 NEC Delaware standard impacts all forms of electrical work, from residential service calls to large-scale commercial projects.

Crucial AFCI & GFCI Protection Rules Under the 2020 NEC

Among the most impactful changes for Delaware electricians are the expanded requirements for Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupter (AFCI) and Ground-Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) protection under the adopted 2020 NEC. While part of the national standard, their implementation represents a major shift from the previous 2014 code used in the state.

GFCI Requirements Delaware: A Closer Look at Outdoor Outlets

A notable change for pros in Delaware is the expanded GFCI requirement for outdoor outlets in NEC 210.8(F). The 2020 NEC initially broadened this rule, but its implementation was adjusted by a Tentative Interim Amendment (TIA 20-13) that delayed the effective date for requiring GFCI protection on specific outdoor HVAC equipment. This TIA, which Delaware recognizes, provided a grace period until January 1, 2023, to give manufacturers time to address compatibility issues with variable-speed equipment. That deadline has passed, and this rule is now in full effect. Every commercial electrician Delaware and residential pro must ensure compliance for these outdoor units to pass a residential electrical inspection.

AFCI Protection Rules and Dwelling Units

With the adoption of the 2020 NEC, the requirements for AFCI protection in Delaware were expanded significantly from the old 2014 rules. Per NEC 210.12(A), AFCI protection is now required for all 120-volt, single-phase, 15- and 20-ampere branch circuits supplying outlets or devices in a comprehensive list of dwelling unit locations. This includes kitchens, family rooms, dining rooms, living rooms, parlors, libraries, dens, bedrooms, sunrooms, recreation rooms, closets, hallways, laundry areas, and similar rooms or areas. This broad application of AFCI protection rules underscores a major safety update for residential settings, a key area of knowledge for anyone specializing in services for the residential market.

The Future is Now: Energy Storage and Solar Panel Code Impacts

As technology evolves, so does the code. Delaware has taken proactive steps to regulate two of the fastest-growing sectors in the electrical industry: energy storage systems and solar photovoltaics.

Navigating NFPA 855 for Energy Storage Systems

Delaware directly addresses the safety of stationary energy storage systems through its adoption of national standards. As of September 1, 2021, the Delaware State Fire Prevention Regulations officially adopted the 2020 edition of NFPA 855, Standard for the Installation of Stationary Energy Storage Systems. Therefore, electricians in Delaware must ensure their installations comply with both NEC Article 706 (Energy Storage Systems) and the detailed requirements of NFPA 855. This makes proficiency in both the NEC’s requirements and the principles of NFPA 855 energy storage systems a vital and enforceable skill for modern electricians in the state.

Powering Through Restrictions: The Delaware Solar Panel Code Landscape

While Article 690 PV systems in the nec code book provides the technical installation framework, Delaware has addressed a major business obstacle for solar installers: restrictive covenants. With the passage of House Bill 65, which became effective on August 20, 2019, Delaware made any HOA or other private covenant that “effectively prohibits or unreasonably restricts” the installation of residential solar systems void and unenforceable. This law is a massive win for electricians and solar companies, opening up markets that were previously closed by neighborhood rules. It empowers homeowners and, by extension, the electricians they hire, to move forward with solar projects, aligning with the state’s policy of encouraging renewable energy. This legal backing is a key part of the Delaware solar panel code environment that professionals must know about.

How These NEC Variations Impact Your Delaware Electrical Licensing

For any professional holding a master electrician license or journeyman electrician regulations license in Delaware, staying current isn’t optional—it’s a core requirement for renewal and professional survival. These Delaware-specific NEC variations and new adoptions directly influence project planning, bidding, and execution. A failure to account for the specific AFCI rules or the requirements of NFPA 855 can lead to failed inspections, costly rework, and potential liability.

The path to licensure, whether for a journeyman electrician, master, or residential electrician, requires rigorous electrician training and examination. Keeping that hard-earned license active means committing to ongoing education. The best way to stay ahead of these complex local rules is through dedicated electrical continuing education DE. Our Delaware electrical licensing renewal courses are fully updated to cover these critical code changes. Our online electrical courses are designed for busy professionals, ensuring you get the accurate information you need to keep your projects compliant and your license in good standing. Our Delaware CE courses cover all state-specific code changes.

Looking Ahead: The 2023 NEC is on the Horizon

Change is constant in the electrical industry. The Delaware Fire Prevention Commission has already adopted the 2023 NEC, with a planned effective date of August 1, 2024. This makes it even more important to master the current 2020 amendments now to build a strong foundation for the upcoming transition. For those wanting a head start, you can begin to navigate the 2023 NEC code book with our helpful resources.