For homeowners considering solar energy, there’s important news about how solar installers and designers are accredited in Australia. The Clean Energy Regulator (CER) has recently announced the change from solar installers needing Clean Energy Council (CEC) accreditation to now needing Solar Accreditation Australia (SAA) accreditation to operate under the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES). This change aims to maintain high standards in the solar installation industry, but what does it mean for you as a homeowner? Let’s break it down.
What is Solar Accreditation Australia (SAA)?
Solar Accreditation Australia is an independent entity established to oversee the accreditation of professionals who install small-scale solar systems, such as rooftop solar. While it operates independently, similar to the CEC, it is accountable to the Clean Energy Regulator, ensuring that it upholds strict standards of quality and reliability in solar installations.
Why the Change?
The shift to SAA from the previous accreditation body, the Clean Energy Council (CEC), is designed to introduce an additional level of quality assurance in solar installations. For homeowners, this means a greater emphasis on the expertise and training of electricians who install solar panels on your home. It’s all about ensuring that your solar system is not just compliant with state and territory requirements, but also meets a nationally recognised standard of excellence.
The Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES)
The SRES provides the STC financial incentives for homeowners to install small-scale solar systems. To ensure your new solar system will qualify for this incentive, your solar system must be installed by an installer who has SAA installer accreditation – i.e. they are accredited under the SRES, now overseen by SAA. This ensures that your solar installation is performed by someone who has proven their competency in the field.
What Does This Mean for You?
If you’re looking into installing solar panels, the new accreditation scheme should reassure you of the quality and reliability of the workmanship. Installers must now transfer to SAA accreditation within three months to remain eligible to offer the small-scale technology certificates that come with the SRES incentives. This means that, moving forward, only those installers who meet SAA’s stringent standards will be involved in installing your solar system.
Transition and Growth
This changeover comes at a time when the rooftop solar sector in Australia is experiencing significant growth. With installations increasing year on year, ensuring the quality of these installations has never been more important. The establishment of SAA aims to safeguard the standard of installations, ensuring homeowners like you can rely on their solar systems for efficient and sustainable energy production.
Looking Forward
As the transition to Solar Accreditation Australia unfolds, the focus is firmly on maintaining and enhancing the standards of training and performance for solar installers. This means you can expect high-quality installations by skilled professionals who are up to date with the latest in solar technology and safety standards.
If you’re thinking of installing solar on your home, contact Solar Market today for your 3 free quotes from accredited installers in your local area!
