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SAA Accreditation Replaces CEC for Solar Installers in Australia

As of February 29, 2024, Solar Accreditation Australia (SAA) officially replaced the Clean Energy Council (CEC) as Australia's solar installer accreditation body. Here's everything homeowners need to know.

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Why Solar TeamVerified Expert

Industry Experts

January 2026

5 min read

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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. This change is significant—but don't worry, we'll break down exactly what it means for you.

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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 May 29, 2024.

The Transition Timeline

Feb 29, 2024

SAA Takes Over

Solar Accreditation Australia officially became the new accreditation body for solar installers and designers across Australia.

May 29, 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).

What This Means for Homeowners

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Same Standards

The core requirements for accredited installers remain focused on safety and compliance with Australian Standards. You're still getting qualified, trained professionals.

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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.

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Rebates Still Apply

SAA-accredited installers can design and install systems eligible for STCs (Small-scale Technology Certificates), ensuring you still receive government rebates worth $1,600-$2,500.

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Easy Verification

You can verify your installer's SAA accreditation by visiting the SAA website and searching their database. Always check before signing contracts.

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Before Signing Any Solar Contract

  • checkAsk your installer for their SAA accreditation number
  • checkVerify the accreditation on the SAA website
  • checkConfirm your system will be eligible for STCs (government rebates)
  • checkEnsure your installer is using SAA-approved products

Key Takeaways

  • 1

    SAA replaced CEC as the official solar installer accreditation body on February 29, 2024

  • 2

    All installers transitioned from CEC to SAA by May 29, 2024 (at no cost to them)

  • 3

    Standards remain the same — you're still getting qualified, safety-focused professionals

  • 4

    Always verify SAA accreditation before signing any solar contract to ensure rebate eligibility

  • 5

    Government rebates still apply — SAA-accredited installers can access STCs just like CEC could

Frequently Asked Questions

What is SAA accreditation?expand_more
SAA (Solar Accreditation Australia) is the official accreditation body for solar installers in Australia as of February 29, 2024. SAA-accredited installers are authorized to design and install solar and battery systems that qualify for Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs) and other government incentives.
Is CEC accreditation still valid?expand_more
All installers needed to transition from CEC to SAA accreditation by May 29, 2024. While CEC was the previous accreditation body, SAA is now the only recognized accreditation for solar installations eligible for government rebates.
Do I need to check my installer's SAA accreditation?expand_more
Yes! Always verify your installer is SAA-accredited before signing any contract. Without SAA accreditation, your installation won't be eligible for STCs (government rebates), which typically reduce costs by $1,600-$2,500 for a standard 6.6kW system.
How can I verify an installer is SAA-accredited?expand_more
You can check if an installer is SAA-accredited by visiting the SAA website and searching their accreditation database. Ask your installer for their SAA accreditation number and verify it before proceeding.
What if my installer still mentions CEC accreditation?expand_more
Some installers may still reference their previous CEC accreditation for marketing purposes (as it's what people commonly search for), but they should have transitioned to SAA by May 2024. Always ask to see their current SAA accreditation number.

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