Key Takeaways
Since its formation in 2007, Clean Energy Council (CEC) has been representing leading businesses operating in Solar and other renewable energy resources. CEC is critical in the renewable energy sector by emphasizing quality and safety. The council promotes leadership and awareness for clean energy businesses nationwide.
- Choosing CEC-approved installers and retailers is essential for quality results while ensuring environmental sustainability.
- CEC-accredited installers install safer, reliable, and efficient solar systems that meet customers’ needs and expectations.
- Installing CEC-approved equipment, such as CEC-approved inverters and solar panels are vital for installing renewable energy sources, while saving thousands of dollars in electricity bills.
- Buying CEC-approved solar panels also makes you eligible for different solar incentives offered by federal and state governments in Australia, such as Small-Scale Technology Certificates (STCs) and other incentive programs, such as Victoria.
Did you know the renewable energy sector was responsible for approximately 32.8% of Australia’s electricity generation in 2022? More and more homeowners are turning towards renewable energy resources due to their long-term benefits without affecting environmental sustainability. A recent report by Clean Energy Council Australia highlights that 310,000 new rooftop solar systems were added to the grid in 2022. It shows rooftop solar systems are playing a significant role in decarbonising the Australian energy grid and putting the country on the path to 82% renewable energy by 2030.
When installing a new solar panel or inverter on your home or office, relying on CEC-approved retailers and installers is vital. Solar Power Nation (SPN) has been a CEC-approved solar retailer since 2020. We have installed 24,000+ solar systems across Australia by partnering with CEC-accredited solar installers and by following all the guidelines as per the code of conduct framed by the Clean Energy Council. Solar Power Nation has also been awarded by SUNWIZ in 2023 as one of the top-volume solar retailers in Australia. This data-driven information showcases the credibility of SPN and how it runs parallel with CEC guidelines.
If you have decided to opt for solar panel system, you must know the CEC-accredited solar panels, retailers, and installers. In this guide, we will uncover the critical role of CEC in energy savings and independence. Our experts will also discuss why choosing CEC-approved installers is vital to get the best return on your investment.
Clean Energy Council: Everything you need to know.
Clean Energy Council is an independent solar association representing Australia’s clean energy sector and businesses operating in the field of energy efficiency and renewable energy. CEC is a not-for-profit association based in Melbourne, operating throughout the country. The association supports all clean energy technologies, including wind, marine energy, solar, solar hot water, hydro, geothermal, cogeneration, and bioenergy.
1. Role of CEC in promoting clean energy
The prime objective of the CEC is to help develop and advocate policies that accelerate the development of different clean energy technologies. The association promotes the renewable energy sector through media, meetings, and social events. Along with developing clean energy resources, CEC has the following key functions:
- Industry Advocacy
The Clean Energy Council represents the interests of its members to the government and other stakeholders. The association advocates for the policies and technologies that support the growth of energy efficiencies and renewable energy. They advocate through regulatory frameworks, funding for research and development, and investment in infrastructure.
- Certification and Accreditation
The Clean Energy Council also offers certification and accreditation for companies and individuals operating in the clean energy sector. This includes accreditation for different equipment, such as solar panels, inverters, and modules, as well as certification for solar and battery installers. The association offers three categories of endorsement covering solar PV retailers, installers, and other businesses. These categories include CEC accreditation, CEC approval and CEC membership.
- Promoting Clean Energy
The CEC hosts training programs and industry events to educate its members about clean energy solutions. The events include seminars, workshops, and conferences that provide education about policy changes, technological advancements, and industry developments.
- Research and Analysis
The CEC also researches and analyses the latest industry trends and technological advancements. This research aims to give members qualified insights and recommendations about clean energy resources.
Overall, the CEC plays a pivotal role in developing and promoting clean energy in Australia. They integrate with government, industry, and other stakeholders to advocate for policies, technological advancements, and initiatives supporting renewable and clean energy growth.
2. Importance of CEC-Approved Installers
When you decide to install a solar system on your rooftop, you will find several installers that claim to be your best solar installer. It is worth mentioning that not all solar installers can deliver the best-intended results. Make sure to choose the installers that carry out accreditation from the Clean Energy Council (CEC). This approval ensures that your selected installer has the skill and license to complete the job safely and effectively.
Buying solar panels from accredited retailers and hiring CEC-approved solar installers decides the longevity and efficiency of your system. CEC-accredited installers and retailers are trained enough to design and install solar panels, inverters, and other renewable energy systems with greater efficiency.
You will find 8,000+ CEC-accredited solar retailers and installers across Australia, and Solar Power Nation is one of them. You can get an approved CEC installers list from the official website of the Clean Energy Council. SPN works with only certified installers to guarantee you skilled and quality workmanship. CEC-approved retailers and installers play a significant role in energy independence and clean energy solutions.
3. Benefits of CEC-Certified Solar Retailers
When you choose CEC-accredited retailers and installers, they adhere to the ethical code of conduct in every aspect. When buying a solar panel or inverter from CEC-certified retailers like Solar Power Nation, you’re sure to close a deal with a company that is committed to end-to-end customer service and operates with integrity.
The following benefits will encourage you to rely on certified installers and retailers:
- System’s Performance Assessment
Certified retailers can calculate the number of peak hours in your area and provide an estimated system performance assessment based on the Clean Energy Council’s calculations. You will surely get a performance estimate that satisfies the CEC’s guidelines depending on different environmental conditions.
- Whole-of-System Guarantee
The installation of CEC-certified retailers comes with a whole-of-system warranty for a specific period. It means if the system does not perform as it was forecasted within the specified period, the installers will assess to find out any hidden problems. They will fix the issues and replace the defective parts at their own cost.
- After-Sales Support
Surveys reveal that since 2011, one in three solar systems in Australia has been orphaned by companies that are no longer in the industry or fail to honour solar warranties. It means most homeowners who have installed solar systems do not get after-sales support if anything goes wrong.
CEC-accredited retailers and installers are committed to providing world-class after-sales support and customer service.
4. Significance of CEC-Approved Equipment
Buying CEC-approved renewable energy equipment is as important as relying on CEC-certified installers and retailers. If you’re worried about the reliability and longevity of your inverters and panels, then CEC-approved equipment is the perfect solution for you.
Imagine you find an amazing solar deal from a local company. You do careful budgeting and sign all the paperwork. On the day of solar installation, your system is not eligible for STCs. Picture this scene. Can anything be more terrible than this? The Clean Energy Council does not approve your solar system because some parts need to be updated or meet the new safety standards this association sets.
You can only return the product if you’ve completed the paperwork and already paid. You’re stuck with the solar system that won’t be able to receive any accreditation or support from CEC. To avoid this hairy situation, you must buy only CEC-approved inverters and panels. The testing of the Clean Energy Council aims to ensure the compliance, reliability and safety of the approved products with the following:
- CEC terms and conditions
- CEC certifications
- Required product standards
By investing in CEC-approved equipment, you can enjoy the following perks:
- Solar Rebates
Solar rebates are the greatest financial incentives set up by the Australian government. These incentives run as discount schemes for households that install renewable energy systems for generating their own energy.
For example, homeowners in Victoria can enjoy a subsidy of up to $1,400 by purchasing an accredited solar power system. National solar subsidies and interest-free loans are also available as a part of the Victorian solar panel rebate.
- Longevity
High-quality solar systems are designed to last several years if installed and maintained properly. Installing a new solar system can be a huge investment, and you deserve the best returns on your investment. Luckily, CEC-approved panels and inverters are here to last for decades.
The CEC approves only solar equipment that meets certain requirements. Some of these requirements are reliability, safety, continued production, and excellent customer support. A manufacturer must guarantee the product’s reliability and continued customer support to be added to the list of CEC-certified retailers.
You can expect to get excellent after-sales customer support for CEC-approved solar equipment. It means if you’re suffering from heavy energy loss or your inverter is blacking out, your retailer will be responsible for fixing these issues without demanding any additional fee.
- Increased Efficiency & Safety
The CEC often updates their testing to meet new safety and efficiency standards. It means inverters, modules, and panels get tested through various scenarios to get accreditation. You don’t need to worry about power surges or sudden blackouts that can damage your appliances. CEC-approved equipment is also the safest and most efficient option, as they offer improved safety for sudden shocks that might harm your body.
In addition, the certified inverters and solar panels will perform efficiently even in less ideal conditions to satisfy your power consumption needs.
5. Process of Finding and Verifying CEC Approved Installers
CEC-accredited installers are trained and certified to ensure your solar system meets all relevant Australian standards and best practices. Such installers get adequate training and fulfil all the prerequisites for designing and installing any kind of clean energy system.
The official website of the CEC has a complete list of certified installers. You can search for an installer by name or search by location if you already know a solar installer. The following steps will help you verify if your selected installer is CEC accredited or not:
Step 1: Research and Gather Information
Being an accredited installer ensures that you will work with a credible company, but it does not necessarily mean the installer will be the perfect choice. Before signing up, research the installers and check how long they have been in the solar industry.
All professional and legit solar providers have a robust online presence. You can visit their social media platforms, read their customers’ reviews, and check testimonials. A CEC-accredited solar installer will always carry a digital accreditation ID card, providing the following information about the installer:
- Photo
- Accreditation number
- Approval date
- Expiry date
You can ask your installer to show you the accreditation ID on your phone.
Step 2: Talk About the Installation Process
Ask questions about the grid connections and overall solar installation process. A CEC-accredited solar installer for small-scale renewable energy systems must install the system physically or attend the working site at least three times during the installation process’s beginning, middle, and end.
Step 3: Check for Manufacturer Warranties
Before installing, check for the manufacturer, battery, inverter, and solar panels warranty. CEC-accredited installers should be able to provide accurate information on both system and product warranties.
Step 4: Ask for Paperwork
Certified retailers and installers provide you with a list of relevant documents and associated paperwork for any type of solar installation. You can ask about the required system size, required components, estimated savings, and estimated return on investment. Ask about the financial benefits of going solar, such as incentives and government rebates. You can verify all the information and documentation provided by the installers to check their authenticity and credibility.
6. The Role of CEC in Solar Installation
The Clean Energy Council accreditation for solar installation has become a standard because of its integration with the Federal Government’s Small Scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES). Since 2009, solar retailers and installers have attained the Clean Energy Council accreditations for grid-connected PV systems to enjoy the substantial benefits of the SRES. DNSPs (Distributed Network Service Providers) also follow CEC accreditation in their applications to connect requirements.
Both DNSPs and Federal Government recognise CEC accreditation as proof of the skills, expertise, and knowledge required to design and install a quality PV system. Along with ensuring the quality and safety of the solar installation, the CEC is reshaping the Australian clean energy market in the following ways:
- Maintaining a complete list of approved solar panels, battery storage systems, and inverters.
- Promoting the use of renewable energy sources across the country.
- Developing services and initiatives for the Clean Energy Council members to promote the growth of the solar industry.
- Collaborating with the Australian government and other stakeholders to improve solar energy product demand.
- Developing and implementing effective policy and advocacy measures.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Answer: You can find the list of certified solar panel manufacturers on the official website of the Clean Energy Council. You can search for a CEC-accredited solar panel retailer by name or location.
Answer: If solar equipment is CEC-approved, it has passed the safety and quality tests that CEC applies to solar PV panels. This testing ensures that approved products comply with all CEC terms and conditions.
Answer: When a manufacturer decides to have their solar products approved by the Clean Energy Council, they need to complete the following essential steps:
- Test the product to the required Australian standards.
- Get an enhanced listing to guarantee consumers that manufacturers use materials that meet base standards.
- Nominate importer of the products, if they meet manufacturer warranty requirements of the Australian market.
- Get necessary documentation, such as compliance certificates, serial numbers, and technical sales datasheet.
- Fill out the PV module application.
Answer: The CEC-certified retailers and installers get accreditation from the Clean Energy Council. It requires installers and retailers to sign a code of conduct, committing to work with the highest standards during the sales and installation.
Answer: Buying a solar system from a CEC-accredited retailer can help you in the following ways:
- Get a whole-of-system warranty.
- Get an accurate system. performance assessment.
- Enjoy after-sales and excellent customer support.
Conclusion
If you want to get energy independence and save on costlier energy bills, adopting renewable energy sources is the greatest option to achieve these goals. You can buy CEC-approved solar panel systems to ensure the quality and longevity of your clean energy sources.
The Clean Energy Council (CEC) is an independent solar association representing companies and individuals working in the clean energy sector. The association hosts social events, such as seminars, conferences, and workshops, to educate its members about clean energy solutions. The CEC also collaborates with the Australian government and other stakeholders to promote the development of the solar energy industry.
The Clean Energy Council’s testing aims to ensure solar equipment’s quality, safety, and reliability. The CEC-approved solar panels, inverters, and modules will go beyond and above your expectations. In addition, when you buy solar equipment from a CEC-accredited retailer, you will get the best-intended results, plus excellent after-sales support.
Certified retailers, like Solar Power Nation (SPN), aim to work with certified installers to give you quality returns on your investment. Contact us for further information about the Clean Energy Council and its role in promoting clean energy in Australia.
The post Understanding the Clean Energy Council (CEC) of Australia: The Crucial Role of CEC-Approved Installers and Equipment first appeared on Solar Power Nation.
