HERE'S HOW TO IDENTIFY
AN APPROVED SOLAR
RETAILER OR INSTALLER

It has been established that solar power offers both immediate as well as long-term benefits and significant payback. It reduces operational expenses, lowers utility costs, creates a favourable ‘green’ corporate image, is great for the environment, and more.

However, even the solar industry isn’t immune from scams by unlicensed and unapproved solar retailers and installers who have not been vetted by the Clean Energy Council (CEC).

Let us help you navigate the world of solar power in Australia, and how you can identify CEC-approved solar retailers and CEC-accredited solar installers.

An approved solar retailer refers to a business that is involved in responsible marketing & sales activities as well as following industry-best practices and guidelines. Some also sign on to the CEC’s ‘Solar Retailer Code of Conduct’, which is a voluntary scheme that demonstrates their commitment to provide high standards of quality and service.

Being accredited by the CEC is a must-have qualification for any business involved in installing solar and / or storage. Such installers are expected to have fulfilled the required training and prerequisites for designing and installing any kind of renewable energy system.

Research & Gather Information about the Solar Provider

• Being a clean energy council-approved solar retailer doesn’t guarantee that the solar provider is perfect for you. They are licensed to work in the solar retailing market, but you should always look for more information.
• Read up on the solar retailer and find out how old or young the company is before signing up.
• A good sign of prominent solar retailers these days is there overall market presence and online visibility. If you can easily access relevant information about them, their products and services based on information available online, chances are high that you will find an approved solar retailer who is genuine.
• Accredited solar installers are always expected to carry their digital accreditation ID card, which can be shown to you on your phone. The card should provide the following information:
  • Photo of the installer
  • Accreditation number
  • Expiry date
  • Types of accreditation held

Ask Them about the Grid Connection and Installation Process

• Don’t hold back with any questions related to your solar power system, especially in terms of grid connection and the overall installation process.
• Most reputable solar retailers use long-term subcontractors who are CEC accredited and are trained to install solar systems.
• Always ask them to guide you through the entire installation process and grid connection requirements.
• Accredited solar installers for small-scale renewable energy systems are required to either physically install the system or attend the site no less than three times during the beginning, middle, and end of the installation process.

Verify All Information and Documents Provided

• For any kind of solar system installation, solar retailers should provide a list of relevant documents and associated paperwork that equip customers with detailed information.
• You should specifically seek information in your quote related to system size, estimated savings, itemised list of products/components, and estimated return on investment during the system’s lifetime.
• Good solar retailers don’t rush you or pressure you into purchasing solar from them. They understand that it’s an important decision that you alone should have authority to take only after you’ve received detailed information.

Check for Product and Manufacturer Warranties

• Make sure to always check for product, manufacturer, inverter, battery, and panel warranty before installing solar.
• It is quite easy to miss out some of the most essential details and completely ignoring the fine print. Ensure that the solar company you choose provides accurate details on both system and product warranties.

Enquire about solar rebates, incentives, and grants

• Your solar retailer should be able to provide information on various government rebates, incentives, and grants for going solar.
• Be aware of financial benefits like STCs, LGCs, and Victorian solar rebates.

Conclusion

Being a clean energy council-approved solar retailer doesn’t guarantee that the solar provider is perfect for you. They are licensed to work in the solar retailing market, but you should always look for more information. GEE helps you navigate the world of solar power in Australia, and how you can identify CEC-approved solar retailers and CEC-accredited solar installers. 

Key Points:

• An approved solar retailer refers to a business that is involved in responsible marketing & sales activities as well as following industry best practices and guidelines.
• Accredited solar installers for small-scale renewable energy systems are required to either physically install the system or attend the site no less than three times during the beginning, middle, and end of the installation process.
• A good sign of prominent solar retailers these days is their overall market presence and online visibility.
• As a CEC-approved solar retailer, GEE’s mission is to deliver customized, affordable, and sustainable energy and solar solutions across Australia and ensure 100% customer satisfaction.

As a CEC approved solar retailer, GEE’s mission is to deliver customised, affordable, and sustainable energy and solar solutions across Australia and ensuring 100% customer satisfaction.

If you are interested in going solar, feel free to connect with our solar experts for more information.

Call us on 1300 707 042 or email us at [email protected]