Switching to solar energy is one of the smartest investments a business or homeowner can make today, providing substantial savings and a smaller carbon footprint. However, the rapidly growing solar market can feel overwhelming, making it tricky to tell genuine quality from dodgy practices.Â
This is exactly why the Clean Energy Council‘s Approved Solar PV Retailer program, also known as the Solar Retailer Code of Conduct, was created to simplify this complexity and set a standard for quality and ethical behaviour in the solar retail industry. This industry-led, voluntary scheme, authorised by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), acts as a consumer protection measure.Â
However, it has now been replaced by the New Energy Tech Consumer Code (NETCC) program. Although CEC accreditation for installers remains important, the NETCC programme ensures consumer protection and quality in solar and battery purchases by setting strict standards, making it a vital checkpoint for consumers seeking trustworthy solar providers after the transition from the old CEC scheme.
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What is the Clean Energy Council Approved Solar PV Retailer Program?
The Clean Energy Council (CEC) is Australia’s peak body for the clean energy industry, championing the development and use of clean energy sources. The Approved Solar Retailer program, now administered under the broader New Energy Tech Consumer Code (NETCC), is a voluntary commitment by solar retailers to uphold the highest standards of sales, service, and installation quality.
Companies that achieved CEC-approved solar PV Retailer status had undergone a rigorous assessment process. This included demonstrating that their business practices met the stringent requirements of the Code of Conduct, thereby improving the consumer experience.
The evolution of the program: Clean Energy Council and the NETCC
The solar industry is constantly evolving, and so are the standards that govern it. As of February 2023, the Clean Energy Council’s Approved Retailer program has transitioned to administration under the New Energy Tech Consumer Code (NETCC).
This expansion acknowledges the increasing integration of different renewable technologies into Australian homes. For consumers, this means that finding a NETCC-approved seller is now the strongest signal of a company’s commitment to quality and ethical business practices across the entire spectrum of new energy technology. The Clean Energy Council remains the administrator of the NETCC, ensuring the continued application of high standards.
The NETCC expands the scope of the original program to cover a broader range of new energy technologies, including:
- Solar PV systems
- Home battery storage
- Electric Vehicle (EV) chargers
- Other new energy tech products and services
Use Energy Matters’ easy-to-use solar power and battery storage calculator to determine the size of your solar system with storage! Our solar calculator will generate performance information and potential savings.Â
We can send this information to 3 of our pre-vetted and trusted local installers in your area to receive obligation-free solar quotes and take the first step towards true energy independence!
Powering up your EV with solar
If you’re thinking of buying an EV, adding an EV charger to your solar system is a smart way to “fuel” your car with clean, renewable energy.
Key pillars of approval
To be recognised as a CEC Approved Solar Retailer (now NETCC Approved Seller), a company must prove adherence to four core pillars:
- Pre-sale activities: Ensuring honest, transparent, and ethical sales and marketing practices.
- Post-sale activities: Respecting consumer rights regarding cooling-off periods and refunds, and guaranteeing system performance.
- Documentation: Providing customers with all necessary information and contracts clearly and in writing before any commitment.
- General business: Adhering to all existing legislation and regulations, and maintaining an effective complaints process.
These pillars collectively raise the bar for service quality across the industry, going above and beyond minimum legal requirements. The commitment extends to using CEC-approved products and strictly employing SAA (Solar Accreditation Australia) installers for all work. This holistic approach ensures quality is maintained from the initial quote right through to installation and beyond.
Approved solar retailer/seller vs Accredited solar installer: What’s the difference?
These terms often confuse buyers, but they represent different roles in the solar industry.
Approved solar PV seller
- A business responsible for system sales and customer service.
- Must meet the NETCC Approved Seller standards (formerly Clean Energy Council Approved Solar PV Retailer).
- Provides warranties, contracts, and consumer protections.
CEC-accredited solar installer
- A trained electrician approved by the SAA (Solar Accreditation Australia) to install solar systems.
- Ensures technical compliance and safe installation.
- Works alongside or with the retailer.
A reputable retailer will always deploy accredited installers during your solar installation.
Key requirements of the Approved Retailer Code of Conduct (NETCC)
Understanding the specifics of the Code of Conduct can help you ask the right questions when obtaining quotes. A NETCC Approved Seller is formally committed to the following:
Area | Commitment Details | Consumer Benefit |
Sales & Marketing | Prohibits dishonest and misleading claims; ensures all government incentives are accurately represented. | Confidence that the information provided is truthful and reliable; no false promises on savings. |
Quoting & Contracts | Requires quotes and contracts to be straightforward, easy to understand, and to include full system specifications (manufacturer, model). | Avoids hidden costs or nasty surprises; ensures the system components are what you agreed to. |
Installation | Mandatory use of SAA (Solar Accreditation Australia) Accredited Installers/Designers; work must comply with all Australian Standards. | Guarantees a safe, technically sound, and fully compliant installation. |
Warranties | Minimum five-year whole-of-system warranty covering products and workmanship. | Single point of accountability for the entire system; greater protection for your investment. |
After-Sales Support | Commitment to maintaining a fair and transparent complaints process, with mandatory response times. | Quick and fair resolution of any issues that arise post-installation. |
Documentation | Providing all necessary paperwork, including a written compliance statement and product manuals, before and after installation. | Complete record keeping and proof of compliance for warranty claims and future reference. |
Sources and References: Clean Energy Council (CEC) – Accelerating Australia’s clean energy transition, NETCC program for retailers | New Energy Tech Consumer Code (NETCC) – Find a New Energy Tech Approved Seller | Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) – We are Australia’s national competition, consumer, fair trading and product safety regulator
The Energy Matters advantage: Connecting with quality
Energy Matters partners exclusively with trusted, pre-vetted solar installers that meet high-quality standards. Our network includes SAA (Solar Accreditation Australia)- accredited solar installers who provide reliable solar solutions and outstanding customer service. We focus on safety, transparency, and long-term performance to ensure every homeowner receives the best value from their investment.
Whether you’re upgrading an existing system or switching to solar for the first time, Energy Matters simplifies the journey by matching you with leading solar providers committed to quality and ethical practices.
Ready to make the smart move?
Take action now to locate a NETCC-approved seller near you. Get free quotes from our trusted, pre-vetted solar installers today and begin saving on your energy bills.
