The Clean Energy Regulator (CER) has permanently suspended the registration of Sydney-based solar retailer 1 Solar Australia, trading as Solar Power Nation, under the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES).
The CER said it was no longer satisfied the company met the fit and proper person requirements. This means the company can no longer operate as a registered agent under the SRES or create small-scale technology certificates (STCs).
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1 Solar Australia has also been expelled as an approved seller under the New Energy Tech Consumer Code (NETCC), and a Public Warning Notice has been issued by the Commissioner for Consumer Affairs in South Australia.
CER chair Tony Chappel said since the SRES commenced over a decade ago, there have been isolated incidents of businesses failing to meet consumer expectations.
“If we see companies that are not operating professionally, we will not hesitate to take action to protect the integrity of the SRES,” Chappel said.
“We work closely with consumer protection agencies, industry bodies and other regulators to share intelligence and identify and address any systemic risks within the solar and battery industry.
“We have a zero-tolerance approach for any poor business practice that can create an adverse outcome for the customer.”
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The company has 60 days to request a review of the CER’s decision.
