A handful of solar retailers in Australia have so far been accepted as signatories to the Clean Energy Council’s Solar PV Retailer Code of Conduct, reflecting the high standards set by the program.
A voluntary scheme for retail businesses selling home and commercial solar power systems; signatories have been able to demonstrate a commitment to responsible sales and marketing activities and industry best practice.
According to the Clean Energy Council, since the launch of the code late last year and up until April 4 this month, 21 applications have been received. Of those applications, eight have been accepted as signatories, nine have been rejected and 5 are in process. Among the accepted signatories is Energy Matters; which also participated in the development of the Code.
“The rigorous application process is designed to maintain the high standard of signatories to the code,” says the CEC. “Any solar retailers that are committed to best practice are strongly encouraged to submit an application to become a signatory.”
The Code was developed to provide solar buyers added assurance when making a solar power system purchase decision – it sets the bar higher than the minimum requirements set by government and regulations. It also includes strict requirements that companies must adhere to with regard to pre- and post-sale processes, documentation and general business practices.
The approval process can take to two months due to the number of checks involved.
Oversight of the Solar PV Retailer Code of Conduct will be undertaken by the Code Review Panel; an independent body incorporating consumer and industry representation.
A summary of the principles of the Code can be viewed here. Detailed information for consumers can be viewed here (PDF) and for solar companies here (PDF).
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) granted authorisation to the Code last year, stating “it is likely to improve consumer confidence and consumer protection in the PV retail sector, improve PV retailer standards and compliance in the PV sector, and reduce risk and cost for other stakeholders operating in the market.”
