The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) have given the Clean Energy Council (CEC) the green light to have a voluntary solar code of conduct for the next five years starting on the 17th of this month.
The standards have been developed in conjunction with solar businesses, consumer groups, government departments and more to come out with a well rounded set of industry standards. The code and the branding are expected to be released in November 2013.
“The ACCC considers that the Code is likely to improve consumer confidence and consumer protection in the PV retail sector, improve PV retailer standards and compliance in the PV sector, and reduce risk and cost for other stakeholders operating in the market,” states the ACCC’s Final Determination.
CEC is thrilled with the authorization and believe that it will help consumer confidence in the industry. There will always be some who enter the industry to make ‘quick money’ and give others in the same industry a bad name. This code will be voluntary and available to all who care about the quality of solar products and services they are offering. It will hopefully save customers from having a bad experience with ‘good salesmen’ as well as ensuring quality and competency.
“Once launched, solar PV retail businesses that wish to demonstrate their commitment to ethical and best practice will be invited to apply to become signatories to the code,” says part of a statement from the Clean Energy Council.