Protecting consumers and securing integrity of the rooftop solar sector
The Australian Government has committed $19.2 million to implement reforms to the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES). The reforms will better protect consumers and improve integrity of the rooftop solar PV sector.
The Clean Energy Regulator (CER) has led a review into the sector. This followed reports of defective installations, misuse of installer accreditation details, and safety and quality concerns.
The CER’s final report identified aspects of current SRES regulatory framework that could be made more effective. The report sets out 13 recommendations.
The government supports the recommendations, including:
- authorising the CER to set eligibility requirements for, and oversee the operation of, installer accreditation schemes and the listing of approved solar components
- implementing streamlined reporting requirements for installers, retailers and manufacturers
- more effective powers for the CER to monitor and enforce compliance for operators in the sector.
The funding will also support online resources to help consumers make informed purchase decisions about solar PV.
The Hon Angus Taylor MP, Minister for Energy and Emissions Reduction, said the reforms will ensure that solar retailers, installers and manufacturers doing the wrong thing are held to account.
‘Improving the regulatory framework will help put an end to the safety and quality risks plaguing the sector,’ the Minister said. ‘It will help ensure the safe and successful rollout of solar PV in Australian homes and businesses into the future.'
It’s essential that state and territory governments ensure their regulatory frameworks for electrical installations adequately cover rooftop solar PV installations. This will help assure safety and quality for consumers as the SRES phases out towards 2030.
The Australian Government will consult on regulatory changes to the SRES framework in the second half of 2021.
Read more
The CER’s final report and the government’s full response
Industry Information Webinar Hosted by CER for industry participants on Wednesday 22 September from 11am AEST
