1. Check the installer: Solar Accreditation Australia
Since 2024, installer accreditation for small-scale solar and batteries has been run by Solar Accreditation Australia, which took over from the Clean Energy Council. Ask for the installer's accreditation number and search for it on the SAA website. The name on the quote should match.
2. Check the seller: NETCC Approved Seller
The company you pay is often not the person on your roof. Check the retailer on the New Energy Tech Consumer Code Approved Seller list. Approved sellers have signed up to a consumer code covering sales practices, contracts, cooling-off and complaints.
3. Check the equipment: CEC approved products
Your system only creates small-scale technology certificates (STCs), the federal discount most solar quotes already subtract from the price, if the panels and inverter are on the Clean Energy Council's approved product lists. Your quote should name the exact brand and model of each, not just "tier 1 panels".
Red flags in a solar quote
- No installer name or accreditation number.
- "Premium panels" or "tier 1" with no brand and model.
- The STC discount not shown, or shown without the number of certificates.
- Pressure to sign today, or a large payment before installation.
- No mention of the grid connection application, the electrical safety certificate, or warranties for panels, inverter and workmanship.
Electrical work needs a licensed electrician
Connecting a solar system is electrical work, so in every state it must be done by a licensed electrician, who should give you the electrical safety certificate for your state when the job is finished. In Victoria that's a Certificate of Electrical Safety, and you can check the electrician with Energy Safe Victoria.
Sources
- Solar Accreditation Australia
- New Energy Tech Consumer Code: find an Approved Seller
- Clean Energy Council
- Energy Safe Victoria
General information only, not legal, electrical or financial advice.