Industry Update
SAA Accreditation Replaces CEC for Solar Installers in Australia
On 29 February 2024, Solar Accreditation Australia (SAA) officially replaced the Clean Energy Council (CEC) as Australia's solar installer accreditation body. Here's what homeowners need to know.
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If you're getting solar quotes in 2024 or beyond, you'll notice installers now reference SAA accreditation instead of CEC accreditation. The change affects which installers can claim your rebate, so here is what it means for you. If you're new to solar energy, our beginner's guide to solar covers the fundamentals.
What Changed?
SAA (Solar Accreditation Australia) was appointed by the Clean Energy Regulator following a competitive selection process. All solar and battery installers needed to transfer their accreditation from CEC to SAA by 29 May 2024.
The transition timeline
29 Feb 2024
SAA takes over. Solar Accreditation Australia officially became the new accreditation body for solar installers and designers across Australia.
29 May 2024
Deadline for transition. All CEC-accredited installers needed to complete their free transfer to SAA accreditation by this date to remain eligible for STC-eligible installations.
Today
SAA is the standard. Only SAA-accredited installers can design and install solar systems eligible for government incentives (STCs). These rebates reduce each year until 2030, so locking in sooner means a bigger discount.
What this means for homeowners
Same standards. The core requirements for accredited installers remain focused on safety and compliance with Australian Standards. You're still getting qualified, trained professionals. Our guide on how to choose solar panels covers the product side of the equation.
Enhanced industry standards. SAA was selected to enhance industry standards and safety. This change aims to improve the quality and consistency of solar installations across Australia.
Rebates still apply. SAA-accredited installers can design and install systems eligible for STCs (Small-scale Technology Certificates), so you still receive government rebates worth $1,482-$2,014.
Easy verification. You can verify your installer's SAA accreditation by visiting the SAA website and searching their database. Always check before signing contracts. Our guide on how to vet a solar installer covers what else to look for.
Find out what your home actually needs
Free, takes 60 seconds, no obligation.
Before signing any solar contract
- Ask your installer for their SAA accreditation number
- Verify the accreditation on the SAA website
- Confirm your system will be eligible for STCs (government rebates)
- Ensure your installer is using SAA-approved products
The SAA change in five points
- SAA replaced CEC as the official solar installer accreditation body on 29 February 2024.
- All installers transitioned from CEC to SAA by 29 May 2024 (at no cost to them).
- Standards remain the same. You're still getting qualified, safety-focused professionals.
- Always verify SAA accreditation before signing any solar contract to ensure rebate eligibility.
- Government rebates still apply. SAA-accredited installers can access STCs just like CEC could.
Frequently asked questions
What is SAA accreditation?expand_more
Is CEC accreditation still valid?expand_more
Do I need to check my installer's SAA accreditation?expand_more
How can I verify an installer is SAA-accredited?expand_more
What if my installer still mentions CEC accreditation?expand_more
The next step
If you're considering solar panels or batteries for your home, Andy and the team can match you with one Why Solar Approved installer near you for a free written quote, and fifteen minutes with a solar expert before you sign.
Written by
Solar Installer Partner Relations
Connects homeowners with trusted, vetted solar installers across Australia. Andy works directly with installation companies to ensure quality standards and helps homeowners through the quoting process.
If you have any questions about the information in this guide, email andy@whysolar.com.au or call +61 2 5657 6527.