The requirements are tightening up for installers seeking Clean Energy Council (CEC) accreditation.
The CEC oversees the training requirements and accreditation of solar installation companies across Australia. It also stresses the importance of installers staying ahead of training and new technology.
This week, more ongoing changes were announced by the industry monitoring body. The upgrade to the CEC’s accreditation process will cover advances in solar technology.
At the end of 2017, the CEC will produce new online tests and assessment tools for solar designers and installers.
The CEC is also updating guidelines for grid-connect installation and batteries. Battery guidelines will become effective on 1 November 2017.
New benchmarks for solar accreditation
The CEC oversees an Installer Reference Group (IRG) with a broad cross-section of experience and expertise.
The group is recommending several changes to the existing accreditation system.
These include:
- Reducing the length of new accreditations from two years to one. This means installers undertake more regular training.
- Updating the previous case study process. This takes the system online and streamlines it.
Accreditation is now valid for one year only. Installers will need to undergo Continuous Professional Development after that time.
Previously, the case study training process showed only one way to install solar panels. Now, however, there are multiple ways to install systems.
For example, DC optimisers and technology such as an enphase microinverter or sma solar inverter are more commonly installed.
Why accredited solar installers matter
Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs) are available to reduce the up-front cost of installing solar PV. They act as a kind of government subsidy to the cost of solar installation.
However, to be eligible, the solar system must be designed and installed by a CEC accredited technician, such as Energy Matters.
Energy Matters accredited installers undergo Continuous Professional Development to enhance their skills.
With an accredited installer, you are also ensured strict quality standards. As a result, consumers enjoy greater expertise and lower costs when choosing a CEC accredited solar panel installer.
