Complaints about the solar industry have increased significantly over the last few years.
According to CHOICE, 30% of solar owners reported having issues with their solar company.
With many solar companies entering the market and a wide range of products available, choosing the right solar provider can feel overwhelming.
Here, we discuss the key things to look for before choosing a solar company.
It is generally safer to choose a well-established company with a proven history of operating in Australia.
According to Fair Trading NSW, complaints have been received about solar companies that have gone out of business, leaving customers with worthless warranties and no clear support pathway.
To check the status of a company, you can do an ACN, ABN, or business name search on the ASIC website or by calling 1300 300 630.
Finding testimonials from real customers can help you identify a reputable solar company and understand what they have to offer.
Look for a solar company that appears caring, knowledgeable, and responsive.
To find verified customer reviews, you can visit ProductReview.com.au and SolarQuotes.com.au.
Make sure the offer is tailored to your energy needs and property requirements.
Avoid companies that use a one-size-fits-all approach or apply high-pressure sales tactics.
It is also important to have realistic price expectations, as choosing the cheapest option may result in poor-quality equipment or installation work.
Make sure all components, including the solar panels, inverter, and battery, are clearly quoted by make, size, and model.
Without clear product details, components may be switched with cheaper alternatives.
The Clean Energy Council, or CEC, Solar Retailer Code of Conduct is an industry code designed to ensure retailers follow ethical sales and marketing practices.
It was created to lift standards above minimum regulatory requirements and support better service across the solar industry.
Once approved, businesses agree to follow a strict Code of Conduct covering pre-sale and post-sale activities, documents, and business practices.
Purchasing a solar power system can be a complicated process.
Buying from an approved retailer can reduce your chances of being taken advantage of and provide greater peace of mind that you are working with a company you can trust.
Some government rebates may also require the system to be installed by a CEC Approved Solar Retailer.
While there are thousands of solar installers across Australia, only a small percentage are approved.
You can check the CEC website to verify whether a supplier is approved.
Buying a solar power system is a substantial long-term investment.
That is why it is important to do your research and choose a reputable company that can provide the best service possible.
Otherwise, you could end up with unsafe installation work, poor system performance, or additional costs in the long run.
Keep in mind that solar photovoltaic, or PV, systems are not “plug and play” appliances.
They are complex electrical installations and a worthwhile long-term investment for your family home or business.
Buying well-known brand panels or inverters alone does not guarantee installation quality.
It is important to purchase from approved installers to help ensure expected system performance, long-term savings, and fewer issues over time.
Poor-quality installation work can lead to a range of problems, including:
Smart Energy Answers is one of Australia’s leading solar energy solutions providers.
We have achieved this standard through our dedication to providing energy-saving solutions that benefit our customers and support a more sustainable world.
Smart Energy Answers is proud to be a certified installer of Tesla Powerwall, SolarEdge Home Battery, and Alpha ESS battery storage solutions.
As a Clean Energy Council, or CEC, Approved Solar Retailer, we are fully committed to providing customers with high-end products, tailored solutions, quality installations, and outstanding customer service.
To get started on your solar journey, contact Smart Energy Answers today on 1300 948 619.
*August 2019:
