Solar Victoria will replace its existing mandatory requirement for solar PV and battery retailers to be a signatory to the Solar Retailer Code with the New Energy Tech Consumer Code (NETCC).
Solar and battery retailers will be required to maintain the status of New Energy Tech (NET) Approved Seller to remain an authorised solar retailer under the Solar Homes and Solar for Business programs.
Related article: New Energy Tech Consumer Code launches
Replacing the Clean Energy Council’s (CEC) Solar Retailer Code of Conduct, the NETCC is a set of service standards and consumer protections, developed at the request of energy Ministers, that build on the previous code and expand it to new energy technology, beyond solar to batteries, electric vehicle chargers and more. New obligations for buy-now, pay-later providers are also covered by the Code.
New Energy Tech contracts require detailed quotations and performance information with technical data that can confuse consumers. The NETCC ensures that retailers are responsible for providing honest, clear and comprehensive documentation to enable them to make a fully informed purchasing decision and to ensure that products are fit-for-purpose.
Clean Energy Council CEO Kane Thornton welcomed the announcement.
Related article: CEC to administrate New Energy Tech Consumer Code (NETCC)
“This decision by Solar Victoria to mandate that New Energy Technology Approved Sellers under the Solar Homes and Solar for Business programs puts consumers first and supports better outcomes for the solar industry,” he said.
“The NETCC is a safety net for consumers, enabling them to make an informed purchasing decision as well as being assured that they are protected by an ACCC authorised program that amplifies existing consumer protections.”
