Learn about Electrical Contracting
Electrical contracting is the business of bringing lighting, power, and communications to buildings and communities across the United States and around the world. In the United States alone, it is an industry valued at over $125 billion annually and is made up of over 70,000 electrical contracting firms employing over 650,000 electrical workers.
- An electrical contractor is a business person or firm that performs specialized construction work related to the design, installation, and maintenance of electrical systems. Whether high-voltage power transmission or low-voltage lighting, electrical contractors ensure these systems work in a safe, effective, and environmentally-sound manner.
- An electrician is an individual trained (and usually licensed) to perform electrical work. Electrical work is a highly technical discipline that requires a thorough understanding of electrical theory and practice, as well as electrical safety and quality standards, to insure that complex electrical systems deliver the performance intended and they safeguard life and property.
- An electrician may be employed by an electrical contracting firm or may be self-employed as an electrical contractor. In most states, there are separate licensing requirements for electricians and electrical contractors.
The Electrical Contracting Market
The electrical contracting market covers a broad range of specialties, encompassing building and non-building construction, service and repair for customers as varied as homeowners, commercial building owners, small businesses, manufacturers, utility companies, and governments at all levels.
The Industry Voice
NECA represents small and large contractors alike. While most NECA members qualify as small businesses, included among NECA’s firms are the largest electrical contracting companies. Members’ expertise range from energy efficiency, power quality and demand solutions to integrated building systems solutions representing the institutional, industrial, residential and commercial markets.
NECA contractors are professionals who
- lead the industry in the practical application of new technologies,
- develop engineered solutions to meet existing and emerging customer needs;
- set industry standards for traditional electrical and integrated building system installations; and
- are backed by the resources, research and support of NECA, the industry leader.
