How to choose a good solar or hot water retailer

At Solar Victoria, we work with government regulators, other agencies and the solar industry to continuously improve safety and quality standards.

Here’s our advice on finding a safe, reliable and fair retailer – and avoiding dodgy deals.

Choosing where to buy a solar, battery or hot water system

In Victoria, we recommend using our authorised retailer lists for solar panels and batteries and hot water systems. Using an authorised retailer is mandatory if you want to apply for a Solar Victoria rebate or loan.

Authorised retailers must meet our quality and safety requirements for sales and installation. Their installers must hold the appropriate electrical licence or plumbing accreditation. Installations by authorised retailers are also subject to safety and quality checks.

Additionally, only products on our product lists are eligible for Solar Homes Program rebates and loans. These products meet safety, quality and technical capability requirements that are above minimum industry standards.

In addition to independent audit inspections under our rebate and loan programs, WorkSafe Victoria, Energy Safe Victoria and the Victorian Building Authority can also inspect solar installations in Victoria.

So, when you use our authorised retailer lists, you know will get a quality product, safely installed by trained professionals.

Tips for peace of mind

When investing in solar panels, a battery or hot water system, it pays to do your research. Make sure you understand everything and feel comfortable before committing.

• Read our buyers guides. They explain how to choose a system that best suits your property and understand your consumer rights.
• Only buy from businesses that are on our authorised retailer lists. They are committed to meeting high standards and are regularly audited.
• Get at least three quotes to compare. Always look for these details in a solar quote.
• Ask solar retailers these questions to understand exactly what you’re getting.
• Avoid deals that seem too good to be true. An unusually low price is generally a trade-off for a low-quality product that may not last.
• Avoid businesses that use pressure or a sense of urgency in their advertising and sales.
• Ask neighbours, friends and family who have recently installed systems about their experience.
• Look for online reviews that show a history of genuine customer satisfaction.
• When you get your new system, ask for warranty details and find out who to contact if there is a problem.

How to deal with unsolicited sales

Door-to-door sales for our Solar Homes Program were banned in 2021. A ban on telemarketing came into effect on 1 May 2024 as well. You should not receive unsolicited visits or calls selling products with our rebates or loans.

Here are some tips for dealing with unsolicited calls, doorknockers or pushy salespeople:

• Join the Australian Government’s Do Not Call Register.
• Report any authorised retailer conducting telemarketing or doorknocking in Victoria to us at enquiries@team.solar.vic.gov.au.
• Do your own research before making any purchases.
• Be aware there is a 10-day cooling-off period where you can cancel an agreement without a penalty.