Know how to choose an accredited installer to help professionally guide you through the solar installation process and ensure you receive a quality system suited to your home’s energy needs.
Choosing a fully qualified, trustworthy solar installer who understands your energy needs and budget will help you enjoy energy savings for years to come.
The right installer can help you get a quality system with accredited solar components and a smooth, hassle-free installation. They’ll also help keep your system running efficiently and be someone you can rely on to fix any issues quickly.
Before looking for an installer, it’s important to have a clear idea of what you need - things like your energy use, roof space, system size and budget. That way, you can quickly find the right installer for your situation.
Local installers will have a better understanding of the electrical network, sunlight expectations, other requirements specific to your area. You should always explore listings on sites like Solar Accreditation Australia, to verify your installer is appropriately licenced and accredited.
Solar Accreditation Australia (SAA) is an independent, not-for-profit organisation, established by Master Electricians Australia and the Smart Energy Council, that advances the effective accreditation of designers and installers.
Installers must meet certain requirements for their systems to be eligible for small-scale technology certificates (STC), so ensuring they are accredited is very important.
You should also browse rating and review sites to get an idea of other customers’ experiences. If you’re unsure, choose installers who have been established for several years.
Once you’ve found some options, aim to get quotes from at least three different installers to help find the best price.
A quote breakdown should include specifics like equipment costs, labour and installation fees and any additional charges for services like warranties or maintenance. Be wary of quotes that don’t clearly explain costs - hidden charges, such as permit or grid connection fees should be clarified up front.
When getting a quote from an installer, try to ask them:
Solar systems vary in quality, effectiveness and longevity, so it’s important to have a good understanding of the components the installer plans to use.
While price will be a major factor, try to select more trusted brands with higher efficiency ratings to maximise your system’s performance.
To ensure high quality, look for manufacturers and products with positive reviews, as well as businesses with Australian-based technical support, and check the Clean Energy Council’s list of approved components:
Installation can be as short as a few days or depending on the system size and its complexity, could take up to several weeks. Speak with your installer to know what to expect.
Having a clear schedule of the installation process and timelines will allow you to manage your expectations.
This could include any roof inspections, site assessments or any structural recommendations that need attention prior to installation, as well as any paperwork that needs to be submitted before connecting to the grid.
A good installer should be able to answer any of your questions for every stage of the installation. They should also be able to provide regular maintenance or troubleshooting services once the installation process is completed. So, make sure to look for quality after-care service when researching installers.
Some installers offer financing options or flexible/interest-free payment plans to make installation more manageable. Quality installers may also know about different government programs or incentives that can help reduce your costs. Make sure to speak with them to learn how to lower the price of your solar investment.
Before you sign the contract to go ahead with installation, it is critical you review the terms and conditions of the contract. This includes going over details of what the installer provides (such as materials, labour and aftercare support), details of how and when payment is to be made, as well as any cancellation policy details.
When entering a commercial arrangement, you should do your due diligence and make sure clear contracts are in place to help prevent any potential disputes.
The installer who completes the testing and commission stage must:
The installer must then provide you with a written compliance statement confirming that:
