The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has proposed reauthorizing a voluntary system including best practice standards for solar businesses, which is to be run by the Clean Energy Council (CEC) for five years.
Solar retailers can sign up to the revised Solar Retailer Code of Conduct, which requires retailers to provide clear information to consumers about their purchases such as the costs of entering into agreements. The Code also aims to reduce safety issues by requiring installers to be accredited.
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The ACCC is seeking comment from stakeholders on its draft before making a final decision on reauthorizing the Code. Submissions are due by 17 August 2015.
The Commission said it encourages consumers to ask questions about their rights and options before entering into significant financial commitments related to solar. Consumers should also enquire about ongoing financial costs, especially when panels are installed with heavy discounts or no upfront cost. Consumers are also encouraged to consider whether they are locked into a long-term agreement with no flexibility to changes in the marketplace.
ACCC deputy chair Delia Rickard said improving standards of practice would increase consumer confidence, enable consumers to make better decisions and enhance compliance as the solar industry grows.
She added: “The solar panel market is evolving, which has led to different business models emerging. While this could lead to greater confusion for customers, signatories to the Code will be required to provide important information to consumers about the nature of the agreement they are entering into.”