Choosing a CEC-Accredited Solar Installer + Top Picks
When you look into the solar energy industry, you’ll probably hear about CEC-accredited installers. Now, it’s worth noting that, as of 29th February 2024, the CEC (Clean Energy Council) handed the duties of design and installation accreditation over to Solar Accreditation Australia (SAA).
In this article, we will continue referring to CEC accreditation; the term known throughout the solar industry for 16 years as the peak body for quality, standards and reliability.
Understanding CEC Accreditation
What is the Clean Energy Council (CEC)?
Before handing over to the Solar Accreditation Australia, the CEC was the leading body for the renewable energy sector in Australia, having been founded in order to ensure quality standards are met in a rapidly growing industry. The CEC had worked closely with the government, the public and regulators on policies, standards and advocating for growth in the renewable energy industry, helping lay the foundations for the Solar Accreditation Australia to continue that same work.
Importance of CEC Accreditation for Installers
CEC-accredited installers (now SAA-accredited) offer evidence of proven quality. The promise of meeting uncompromising industry standards removes the degree of risk that can deter some people from solar installation.
This is obviously a prominent and almost necessary feather in the cap of any solar installation companies, but – critically – the Clean Energy Council’s pre-set standards give consumers an assurance and confidence indicator to look for when exploring different solar retailers. Any solar company not boasting CEC-accredited installers is taking a risk.
How to Become a CEC-Accredited Installer
Despite the changing hands of the accreditation scheme, the process remains the same. It begins with completing a recognised course in solar panel and solar battery installation, including both practical and theoretical elements and covering areas like solar photovoltaic system installation, grid-connection requirements and safety standards in the renewable energy industry.
This is followed by an assessment testing their knowledge of technical, safety and regulatory standards; checking that they understand the essential skills required to carry out installations to Australian standards.
If they pass the assessment, installers can then go through the application process to the SAA in the same way they would have with the Clean Energy Council: verifying qualifications and submitting relevant documentation. Ongoing training is often required to maintain accreditation, including training to keep installers up-to-date with the latest standards, technologies and regulations in the clean energy sector.
Benefits of Hiring CEC-Accredited Installers
Ensuring Quality and Safety in Installation
Installation of solar products is complex and installation costs can be high, so the peace of mind that comes with installer accreditation is important. Quality installations and safe processes, particularly with rooftop solar panels and other higher-risk solar systems, should be non-negotiable.
Compliance with Industry Standards
Not only does the training and assessment ensure an understanding of the standards, codes and processes – every installer accredited by the Clean Energy Council knows how to follow the correct steps to meet those standards of safety and quality in the clean energy industry.
Additionally, the SAA carries out audits and inspections on completed installations, which means solar installers and solar companies are held accountable for installation of solar panels, batteries and other solar products.
Getting Your Solar Rebate
This is an important one: if you have invested in solar power (rooftop solar panels, solar battery storage systems, etc.) in anticipation of a rebate but your solar system isn’t installed by a CEC-accredited installer, you won’t receive the rebate.
This is a condition written into every incentive for solar power and could cost you thousands of dollars in rebates/incentives.
Comprehensive Services Offered by CEC Accredited Installers
Warranties for Peace of Mind
All Clean Energy Council-accredited installers are required to offer you a minimum five-year warranty on their labour. It’s strongly advisable not to accept anything less than this from a solar installer, both because the warranty speaks to confidence in their work and serves as a level of protection for you as a consumer.
Long-term Benefits of Quality Installation
First and foremost, Australian standards are strict in order to minimise risks of electrical faults, safety hazards or system failures. Quality installation by accredited installers ensures you are covered by those protective measures.
Additionally, quality installation ensures efficient operation in your solar system. That means you’re getting the most out of your investment, with higher savings on your energy bills and optimal energy production.
Quality installation also improves the lifespan of your solar panels or PV system and even reduces the need for repairs.
Are you ready to commit?
There’s nothing like the peace of mind of knowing that your investment is a safe, smart decision. At SAE Group, we pride ourselves on giving you the highest standards in quality and safety in your solar power. That’s why we have a team of CEC-accredited installers ready to give you solar power that you can trust and rely on.
Why not find out more by speaking to us via the button below? We’d be happy to answer any questions and guide you along your journey to solar energy.
