To find a good solar installer, look for installers who are members of a consumer protection program like the New Energy Tech Consumer Code (NETCC) Program run by the Clean Energy Council. The NETCC sets national standards to protect consumers purchasing new energy technology including solar systems.
Follow these easy steps to get started:
1. Contact an installer to see if your home is suitable for solar panels
- Ask people you know for solar installer recommendations.
- Research installers online and read independent reviews, search engine ratings, social media and forums.
2. Compare quotes from multiple installers to find the best offer
A good quote and contract should include:
- a site-specific system design
- a timeline for starting and completing installation
- a performance estimate
- an itemised list of components and products
- component and installation warranties
- a breakdown of costs including any rebates or discounts.
3. Sign a contract and pay
- A contract should be clear and use plain language.
- Research your payment options to choose the best option that suits your financial situation.
- Review your terms and conditions of sale before signing the contract.
4. Organise the installation, testing and activation of your solar system with the installer
- Your installer will nominate a day for installation.
- Your installer should provide clear instructions for how to use your system including information sheets or manuals for the components.
5. Register your solar system with your electricity retailer
- Your installer will register your system with your retailer.
- They'll keep you informed on progress.
6. Use your solar system to power your home
- Your retailer should give you clear information about how to safely use, maintain and get the most out of your solar system.
- Your electricity rates might change now you have solar. Compare rates from different electricity retailers to find the best deal.
- Learn more about costs of home solar systems.
After installation
Once your solar system is installed, your installer should:
- provide written instructions on how to operate your system
- put stickers on your power board to show what type of solar system is installed
- give you a certificate of compliance that details the work done and that the system has been installed according to Australian standards
- leave the area they were working in clean and tidy
- turn your power back on.
After your solar installation is complete, there are information that your installer need to provide to you. Duration: 1:11 minutes.
Maintaining your solar system
You can improve the efficiency of your solar system by up to 5% per year by keeping your panels clean.
Rain will more than likely keep them clean. If you can reach them safely from the ground, you can also clean your solar panels with a garden hose. If you can’t clean the solar panels from the ground or you think they need a more thorough clean, contact a company who specialises in servicing solar panels.
Regularly check your system to ensure it’s operating and get the system checked every few years to make sure it’s in good working order.
Maintain your solar panels to make sure your system is working properly for years to come. Duration: 0:52 seconds.
Issues with your solar system
If your solar system stops working, contact your solar installer to fix the issue. Never try to fix the issue yourself as it could be a risk to your safety.
To find out more about consumer protections or to make enquiries or complaints about workmanship, visit the NSW Fair Trading website or call 13 32 20.
For disputes or complaints about your electricity retailer, contact the Energy & Water Ombudsman NSW (EWON) for a free dispute resolution service. Visit the EWON website or call 1800 246 545.