The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has stated it proposes to grant reauthorisation to the Clean Energy Council’s revised Solar Retailer Code of Conduct.
The Code was developed to give consumers added peace of mind when making a solar power system purchase decision. For solar businesses, being a signatory enables them to demonstrate their commitment to responsible sales and marketing activities and solar industry best practice.
Energy Matters (now SunEdison Australia), assisted in the development of and was among the first Australian solar power retailers to sign on to the Code, which is a voluntary undertaking.
23 companies are currently Clean Energy Council Approved Retailers. Not all providers seeking to display the distinction pass muster – 16 applications have been rejected so far.
The entire code as it currently stands can be viewed at ApprovedSolarRetailer.com.au
Since the Code was established in 2013, the solar industry has continued to evolve and new financial products such as Power Purchase Agreements (solar PPA) and solar leasing have been gaining popularity. Guidelines concerning these products have been incorporated in the revised Code.
The Code enhances consumer protection by requiring signatories to clearly and accurately disclose information about the finance arrangement and the fees and charges involved.
The revised Code also updates requirements related to grid connection approvals and privacy.
The ACCC proposes to grant reauthorisation for five years for the revised Solar Retailer Code of Conduct and is seeking submissions (due by 17 August 2015) from interested parties in relation to its draft determination before making a final decision.
“Household solar panels are a significant purchase for consumers. It is important to ensure that industry participants continue to strive to improve standards of practice. Doing so will increase consumer confidence, enable consumers to make better decisions and enhance compliance as the industry grows,” ACCC Deputy Chair Delia Rickard said.
The Clean Energy Council welcomed the decision.
“Today’s draft decision confirms the need for such protection and emphasises the value of this voluntary code of conduct in raising standards in what is proving to be an enduring industry,” says part of a statement from the CEC.
Related
Energy Matters Solar Power Consumer Guide – Free Download
