There are two main ways to do it: solar hot water systems use direct solar energy to heat water, and heat pumps transfer heat from the air to heat the water, typically through an electric booster. Depending on your situation – such as where you live, whether you have solar panels, or how much hot water you use – one of these types of hot water system might suit your household more.

An efficient hot water system will help reduce your bills

Hot water systems are one of the biggest energy users in the home, accounting for around 21 per cent of total energy use (on average, according to YourHome) This can have a significant impact on household energy bills, but one way to keep these costs under control is to install an efficient hot water system such as a heat pump or solar hot water system.

What we consider to be an efficient hot water system has changed a lot in the last decade. Modern electric appliances such as heat pumps use less energy than gas appliances and can run on renewable energy. As more Victorian households install solar photovoltaic (PV) systems more people can take advantage of solar-generated electricity to bring down the cost of running the hot water system.

Each system installed helps the environment

Victorian households can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions by upgrading to a hot water system that uses less energy.

Depending on the type of heat pump hot water system installed, energy reductions of almost 80 per cent can be achieved compared to standard electric storage water heaters. Standard electric storage water heaters use a heating element inside the tank to heat the water, just like an electric kettle. When powered using electricity from the grid, they are responsible for the most greenhouse gases of any water heater and are being phased out for household use, not just in Victoria but around the country.

A solar hot water system uses the sun to heat the water, with any shortfall made up by electric or gas boosting. A solar hot water system can cover up to 60 per cent of your household hot water demand in Victoria before boosting is required, which is water heated without any grid energy use or associated greenhouse gas emissions.

Hot Water Rebate

You can get a hot water rebate of up to $1,000 on the installation of a solar or heat pump hot water system, if you meet the eligibility criteria.

The hot water rebate applies to installations that replace an existing hot water system that was at least three years old (from the date of purchase) and it’s not available to new build homes.

The Solar Homes Program is supporting eligible Victorian households to save even more. Eligible households can receive both a solar panel (PV) rebate and a hot water rebate to make the most of their solar energy.

If you have received a solar battery rebate, you cannot apply for a solar panel (PV) or a hot water rebate for your home. Visit our Solar Homes Program rebate pages to see if you are eligible for a rebate.

The Victorian Government's Energy Saver website provides householders with more information about other incentive schemes.

Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs)

Your new system is also eligible for Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs). This is effectively a payment made to purchasers of small renewable energy systems for the value of the emissions reduction they create. The quoted price of the system from your installer will have the STC discount included in the final price.

Victorian Energy Efficiency Certificates (VEECs)

Victorian Energy Efficiency Certificates (VEECs) are electronic certificates created when certain energy efficient activities are undertaken. Each certificate represents one tonne of greenhouse gas emissions reduction (CO2-e). The number of certificates generated is based on the greenhouse gas savings that are associated with the product or service. The level of incentive or discount received by households and businesses varies depending on the market activity and certificate price. More information about VEECs can be found at energy.vic.gov.au.

In this section we discuss the two main types of efficient hot water system to help you decide which best suits your needs. Look here for further detail: Planning a solar hot water system and Planning a heat pump hot water system.

What is a heat pump hot water system and how does it work?

Air conditioners and refrigerators are two common forms of heat pumps that you might be familiar with. They work by moving or ‘pumping’ heat from one medium to another. For example, your fridge extracts heat from its freezer section and pumps warm air out the back.

A heat pump hot water system includes a heat pump unit, like the outdoor unit for a split-system air conditioner, and a storage tank. The heat pump extracts heat from the air and pumps it into the water storage tank. Good heat pumps can do this effectively even in freezing weather.

Heat pump hot water systems are much more efficient than standard electric water heaters, although the electricity for the unit is still supplied via your normal household electricity wiring or your solar panels.

What is a solar hot water system and how does it work?

A solar hot water system uses heat directly from the sun to heat water. A typical system consists of a hot water storage tank connected via pipework to solar collector panels or evacuated tubes, which heat the water for the tank. Both system types are usually placed on a north-facing roof, although a west-facing roof can also work well in many cases.

As the sun shines on a collector panel, the water in the pipes inside the collector becomes hot. This heated water is circulated up the collector and out through a pipe to the storage tank. Cooler water from the bottom of the tank is then returned to the bottom of the collector, replacing the warmer water.

Deciding between a solar or heat pump hot water system

Consider the environmental benefits of a system, how a water heater works with the existing power supply, the upfront cost and the cost to run, along with other factors such as reliability.

Do you already have a solar electricity system at home?

If you have a solar photovoltaic (PV) system at home you might be keen to make use of any excess solar electricity generated throughout the day to run your hot water system and reduce household energy costs due to water heating. After all, hot water heating is one of the biggest energy users in the home. One way to do this is to install a heat pump hot water system and use a timer or diverter to set the system to run during the day when your solar PV system is generating the most electricity.

Is climate a consideration?

As heat pumps work by extracting heat from the air outside, you might think that they are less suitable in colder areas. However, regardless of where you live, heat pumps are almost always a viable option. Speak to your installer about which models are best for your location. You can also check the 'operating temperature range' which lists the temperatures at which the heat pump has been tested to operate. This is usually on the brochure or datasheet of the proposed system for suitability in your climate; if not, contact the manufacturer or supplier for a copy.

Differences between heat pump and solar hot water systems

Each type of system has advantages and disadvantages:

Flexibility

Heat pumps can be run whenever you like by using a timer. This might be to make use of low off-peak tariff prices, to run more efficiently during the day due to higher ambient temperatures, or to use excess solar PV.

Energy use

Heat pumps must always use electricity, although because they reclaim heat from the air they use a lot less than would otherwise be needed to heat the water. If timed to operate during the middle of the day, a heat pump could be fully powered by rooftop solar panels for much or all of the year, depending on other household energy usage and the size of the rooftop solar system.

Solar hot water systems may be completely solar-powered during the warmer months, but usually can’t collect enough solar energy to heat the water during winter or if it’s cloudy, so they always have a supplementary form of heating (a ‘booster’) that comes on automatically when required. This is powered by either gas or electricity.

Shading issues

In situations where the roof is often shaded by a tree that can’t be trimmed or by a neighbouring building, a solar hot water system might be unable to collect enough solar energy and a heat pump may be a better option.

A northern orientation is the optimal location for a roof system, but an easterly or westerly orientation can be used if the collector size is increased.

Choosing a reliable hot water system

When you choose a hot water system, you want a reliable unit that will last.

Installation or manufacturing issues

Solar hot water systems have complex installation requirements, so it’s crucial that you use a highly experienced and accredited installer.

Heat pumps are more complex internally, so a quality design and manufactured product will be important. Talk to your retailer about a trusted brand and model.

Whichever type of system you choose, a trusted installer and a reputable brand and model will reduce the likelihood of problems down the track. Make sure you also check warranty details.

Make sure you do your homework early, before a cold shower forces a snap decision!

I’m not ready to upgrade. How can I make the most of my current system?

Improve your current system

The simplest option may be to improve the efficiency of an existing system rather than buy a new one. Improvements can include:

• If you haven't already done so, install low-flow shower heads and aerating taps to reduce hot water requirements
• Check that the hot water pipes are properly insulated (to reduce heat loss) and improve the insulation where necessary
• If you have a storage hot water system (i.e. with a tank):
  • Add a Valve Cosy to insulate the pressure and temperature relief valve (www.valvecosy.com.au)
  • Add a tank blanket or other insulation to your water tank
  • Adjust the tank’s temperature control to reduce tank temperature if it’s set too high, noting that it should not be less than 60°C for biosafety reasons (to prevent the growth of Legionella bacteria). Some tanks require an electrician to check and adjust temperature

This advice can even improve the performance of new systems.

What size system suits your household?

Working out the right size for your new hot water system is one of the most important aspects of system selection. Sizing is a trade-off between cost and performance, and a key element of performance is the level of risk of running out of hot water!

The system should be sized for the dwelling, not necessarily its occupants. People sell houses and move on, but the hot water system stays.

It is generally accepted that each person will use around 50 litres of hot water per day, and in a storage system it is good to have 1.5 days capacity. A three-bedroom house can comfortably accommodate four people and so it should have a 300-litre tank, even though it may currently be occupied by a retired couple.

Also think about whether the dishwasher and washing machine need plumbed hot water. These appliances often include in-device water heating these days, which reduces household hot water storage requirements.

Sizing a solar hot water system

Solar hot water systems are configured as a tank and collectors. The number of collectors or evacuated tubes for a given tank size may vary, depending on the local climate and expected patterns of water use at home.

Sizing a heat pump hot water system

The smallest tank size will nearly always give the lowest energy use for heat pumps, but don’t go smaller than your household actually needs or you may run out of hot water.

Often sizing is based on very generous assumptions, leading to large tanks, which you may not need. Since heat pump systems can heat efficiently at any time of day, you may be able to select a smaller tank. Each manufacturer has their own recommendations, so refer to those for guidance.

What type of tank should I consider?

A mains pressure tank is common for both solar and heat pump hot water systems.

Mains pressure tanks

Most tanks used in heat pump and solar thermal hot water systems are mains pressure tanks, much like the tanks used in regular gas and some electric water heaters.

Gravity feed or constant pressure tanks

Some systems use constant pressure tanks, often called gravity feed tanks, which might suit when the water is supplied from a rainwater tank.

Legionella

The entire volume of any storage water heater, regardless of energy source, must reach 60°C for half an hour at least once a week to prevent the growth of Legionella bacteria.

Split and close-coupled systems explained

Close-coupled systems

For close-coupled (non-split) systems, the circulation of the water through the panels and tank occurs naturally as the heated water rises by a process called thermosiphon. With no pump required, these systems are simpler than split systems, with less maintenance required.

However, the storage tank needs to be above the collector panels, and the roof must be able to support the full weight of the tank.

Close-coupled systems have the advantage that all components are close together, reducing heat loss from pipe runs. However, with the tank on the roof, maintenance can be more difficult.

Split systems

Split systems use a pump to circulate water from a ground-mounted tank through the roof-mounted panels. A temperature differential controller gathers information from temperature sensors at the top of the panels and at the bottom of the tank, and tells the pump to operate when there is heat to be gained from the collector.

The advantages of a split system include much less weight on the roof and easier tank maintenance. However, a split system has added complexity due to the pump and controller, as well as longer pipe runs between the collectors and tank which can lead to heat loss.

Collector types

There are two common types of solar hot water collector panels: flat-plate and evacuated-tube. Which type of collector you use depends on personal preference and your climate. Evacuated tubes tend to work better in the cooler months in colder climates, but in warmer climates, either type of collector will perform well. Evacuated tubes can also be up to 163% more efficient.

Boosting

Virtually all hot water systems on the market incorporate some form of boosting.

Electric elements are the most common boosting option. They fit in well with cheaper night rate tariffs. If you have a solar panel (PV) system installed then this might help reduce energy costs associated with boosting.

Frost protection

The system should be fitted with a freeze protection system if frosts are a possibility in your area. Water expands as it turns into ice and if there is no ability to absorb this expansion or prevent it happening, then the result will be ruptured pipes in the collectors. Repairing collectors can be difficult and replacement is expensive.

All manufacturers offer frost protection on at least some models.

Temperature control

Solar hot water systems are effectively connected to an uncontrolled heat source (the sun) and so the temperature in the tank may become much higher than in a regular non-solar water heater.

In hot weather, with minimal hot water use, tanks could actually reach boiling point. A number of mechanisms can be used to prevent this from happening, include pressure and temperature relief (PTR) valves, heat dumps, circulation control increasing the collector slope at insulation time and tempering valves.

Installation considerations for solar hot water systems

Installation methods will vary depending on the type of system chosen, the house roof angle and structure and the location and orientation of the home.

Pipe length

When considering plumbing the pipe runs should be kept as short as possible by locating the system central to all usage points; this will minimise heat loss from pipes.

Panel siting and collector angle

To get the most out of a solar hot water system the collectors should be tilted towards the sun for optimal performance, which means mounting them on a north-facing roof. The main requirement is that there are no long periods of shading.

Tilt angle should be set to optimise solar gain for winter in Victoria, where possible, as this is when sunlight hours are reduced and demand for hot water can be greater.

Non-north-facing options

A system will still perform well enough if a west-facing roof is the only option, provided there are no shading issues. Such a system may perform up to 20 per cent less efficiently than a north-facing system but should still produce good quantities of hot water. Oversizing the collector will help.

Special frames are also available that allow a collector to face north, even if mounted on an east, west or even shallow south-facing roof. However, they may cost more than simply oversizing the collector.

Roof strength

Roof strength is another important consideration for the installation of close-coupled systems. Every litre of water weighs one kilogram, which means that a 300 litre tank will weigh as much as 420 kilograms when the weight of the materials is taken into account. Needless to say, the roof must be inspected and its carrying capacity assessed.

The system should span as many rafters as possible, and these may need to be braced from inside.

Roof strength is not a concern with split systems as only the collector panels are mounted on the roof and their weight and area represent very light loadings.

Insulate the pipes

All water pipes should be insulated to reduce heat loss and to minimise or eliminate frost damage. Australian Standard 3500.4 defines minimum levels of pipe insulation for hot water systems. Be aware that this is an area where installers might cut corners. Some types of exposed pipe insulation can also degrade rapidly when exposed to sunlight. It is a good idea to ask the vendor to be explicit about the level of insulation to be used and whether it is UV-rated.

See Section 4 for details on system sizing and tanks for all hot water systems, and read on for advice on heat pump hot water systems.

Integrated and split systems explained

Like solar systems, heat pump hot water systems are configured as either one-piece (integrated) or split. In an integrated system, the evaporator and fan are mounted on top of or beside the tank and integrated into a single unit.

In a split system, the heat pump mechanism is housed in a separate unit plumbed to the tank at installation time.

An integrated unit has the benefits of simpler installation and compactness, whereas a split-system unit allows greater flexibility in locating the two components. For example, you could locate the tank indoors and the heat pump mechanism outside on a wall. Integrated heat pumps weigh more so could take two people to move or install.

Boosting

Heat pumps are designed to run whenever the tank temperature falls below a pre-set level (e.g. 60°C). Some heat pumps struggle in air temperatures approaching freezing, and so may use a resistive electric element as a booster in these conditions. This can end up using quite a bit of extra energy, leading to higher running costs. If you live in an area that sees regular near-freezing temperatures, look for a system that will operate under such conditions without the need for a resistive booster. Plenty of these systems are on the market, you’ll just need to do some research or chat to your installer.

Some heat pumps also come with a timer, so that it operates during the middle of the day, using solar panel (PV) generated electricity (if you have it) and benefitting from higher daytime ambient temperatures.

Not all heat pumps have timers, however if you want to make the most of your solar panels (PV) you should consider a heat pump that includes an in-built timer or ideally can communicate with your solar panel (PV) system to optimise your solar generation.

However, extra hot water may be needed at other times, so most timers have the ability to be overridden for just such requirements.

Noise

Being refrigerative systems with compressors and fans, heat pumps make some noise, although some are noisier than others. Reported noise levels are comparable to modern refrigerators. Avoid fitting the condenser close to bedrooms unless they’re on a timer and only run during the day.

Noise is perhaps slightly more of a consideration for a heat pump hot water system than for an air conditioner because use is year-round and heating operation can engage at any time of the night or day.

With systems that have a controller that can be programmed to heat at certain times of the day, the ability to restrict time of operation may be useful if noise is a concern.

Select an appropriate location to install a system. For example, outside a kitchen or bathroom might be more appropriate than outside a bedroom.

Installation considerations for heat pump hot water systems

The installation of a heat pump hot water system requires less work than a solar hot water installation, and the location of the equipment is much less sensitive to local factors such as shading and roof access.

An electrician is required to install the electric circuit for the hot water service. If the heat pump is replacing an existing conventional electric system then the plumbing and electrics should be no more difficult than for replacing a new conventional system.

All water pipes should be insulated to reduce heat loss and to minimise or eliminate frost damage.

Steps to purchase and install a hot water system at home

• Read this Buyers Guide to learn about hot water systems. Gather your questions and seek independent advice
• Confirm your own household’s requirements – see Section 4 on Deciding your hot water system size and tank
• Seek recommendations on installers or companies that manage installation, and then contact those who are appropriately accredited for quotes
• Select your preferred installer. Make sure the quote meets your needs. Using our checklists can help
• Apply for the hot water rebate
• Sign a contract with your installer
• Install your new system
• Enjoy your new hot water system and reduced energy bills

Finding a retailer or installer

The installation of any hot water system should be carried out by appropriately qualified and experienced tradespeople to make sure it is properly sized and installed. Only authorised retailers, installers and products on our hot water products list are eligible under the hot water rebate program. See our authorised hot water retailer list.

Solar Victoria has guidelines for the installation of hot water systems to be eligible for the hot water rebate.

All hot water installations must be completed by:

• an appropriately licensed plumber and a Plumbing Certificate of Compliance must be supplied to the householder.
• an installer that holds a current Class A Electrical Licence issued by Energy Safe Victoria if prescribed electrical installation work is required.
• an electrician who can submit a prescribed Certificate of Electrical Safety to the householder, which has been certified by a licensed inspector registered with Energy Safe Victoria.
• a hot water retailer who can provide a minimum five years’ warranty on all major components of your hot water system.

The system installed also needs to be included in our hot water product list. All installers must ensure safe work methods and fall prevention measures are in place as per the Occupational Health & Safety Regulations 2017 (S.R No. 22/17). Find full details on the Hot Water rebate page.

Getting a quote

Your retailer or installer should provide you with a written quote for a product that is included on the hot water product list. Remember when you seek out a quote for your hot water system installation you should advise your retailer you intend to apply for the rebate.

You should ask about the maintenance and operation requirements of your system, and don’t be rushed into making a decision.

Consider how system faults will be handled

A warranty is only as good as the company that provides it. If the company disappears in a few years, you might have difficulty making a warranty claim should failures occur. Seeking out a retailer or installer with a long history in the business helps.

Also, be aware that under Australian Consumer Law, warranties are required to be honoured by product manufacturers even if retailers have gone out of business, so make sure you receive and keep information about the manufacturers of all the different components of your system, and the different warranties on each component. See What warranties are available for more information.

What not to do when engaging an installer or company

Don’t buy a hot water system from a door-to-door salesperson, or from a salesperson who cold calls you on the phone. If you have signed a contract in this way, take advantage of the 10-day cooling off period under consumer law to cancel the contract, and then take your time to do your homework, plan your system and find a quality installer.

If you are applying for the Hot Water rebate, don’t make any payment to a hot water provider until your eligibility for the rebate has been confirmed by Solar Victoria. Apply for eligibility on the hot water rebate page.

Scams do exist unfortunately, with offers that appear to be too good to be true. Visit the ACCC’s SCAMwatch website for more information on protecting yourself from scams.

If you are the target of a scam, please report it to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) via the SCAMwatch website or by calling 1300 795 995.

Installer and quotation checklist

It’s best to sound out an installer to check their reliability before handing over your hard-earned cash. Have they successfully installed this particular hot water system before? What happens if they go out of business? Here are some key questions to get you started.

General questions regarding all systems

• What’s your experience with heat pumps/solar hot water systems?
• Are you licensed to install this kind of system?
• What happens if the system needs to be fixed under warranty, and your business is no longer operating?
• How long have the equipment manufacturers been in the industry, and do they have a local office?
• What’s the warranty on the tank? And on the other components of the hot water system?
• Does the quote include all system components as well as installation?
• Does the quote include all labour, transportation and inspection charges?
• What maintenance is required on the system?
• What subsidies does my system qualify for?
• Are the products on Solar Victoria’s hot water products list?
• Are replacement parts readily available?
• How long can I expect my system to last?
• How long will it take to install the system?
• How many STCs does my system qualify for?
• What material is the tank?
• Will the installation be designed to reduce weathering of the storage tank?
• What level of insulation and lagging do you offer on the system? Do you install measures to prevent heat coming out of the pressure relief valve?
• What is the maximum output water temperature and is a tempering valve included? Note: tempering valves are compulsory.
• Will the system meet the household’s needs regarding number of occupants and bathrooms?
• If you’re looking at an electric hot water system, ask if they can set up a timer so that it runs in the middle of the night, or in the middle of the day if you have a solar electricity system.

Questions for heat pump installers

It’s important to differentiate between high quality heat pumps and those that are less efficient. The ‘coefficient of performance’ (COP) is a measurement of how much energy a heat pump can draw from the air, for each unit of electricity it consumes. A heat pump with a COP of 2 produces twice as much energy as it uses, while one with a COP of 4 produces four times as much. The best heat pumps will have a coefficient of performance of 3.5 to 4 or higher, while some of the lesser quality heat pumps may be down at 2 to 2.5.

You can also check the percentage of energy savings on the VEU Product Registry.

Some installers will also tell you that heat pumps don’t work in cold weather. In fact, some brands don’t work very well in the cold, while others work quite well. (Heat pumps are common in northern Europe where below-zero temperatures are quite common in winter.)

Here are some questions to help pick a quality heat pump:

• What’s the heat pump’s coefficient of performance?
• What is the heat pump’s coldest operating conditions, or operating temperature range?
• What is the heat pump’s noise rating? Does the compressor have a block out timer/timing function?
• Does the heat pump have a resistive element? (If so, it could mean that the actual heat pump doesn’t work as well as others. You’d also need to be wary of what impact the resistive element could have on household electricity use.)
• What is the tank warranty, compressor warranty and installation/workmanship warranty
• What’s the process to enact a tank or compressor warranty after the installation warranty has expired?
• Are there any additional costs such as safety switch costs, set up for block out timing (to match solar PV generation times), or extra cost for an elevated work platform?

Questions for solar hot water installers

Solar hot water systems can take a number of days to install due to the plumbing and roof-work involved. Quiz your installer about the full installation process.

• How well does the system perform in overcast conditions?
• How long will it take to install the complete system?
• Will my system need a tilt frame?
• Does the system come with freeze protection?
• Will my roof need to be strengthened for a close-coupled system?
• What is the tank, collector, booster and installation warranty?

Warranties and standards on solar hot water systems

The warranties offered on solar hot water systems vary from one manufacturer to another and should be carefully scrutinised when buying a system. Generally, the tanks (and collector panels for solar hot water systems) are warranted for five to ten years while the associated valve work will carry a 12-month warranty only. Read the warranty conditions carefully, especially those concerning labour. Some warranties are conditional on installation by appropriately qualified personnel, regular servicing and water quality.

All Australian systems are built to a set of standards outlined by Standards Australia. These cover design, construction and performance. Installation standards are covered in the National Plumbing and Drainage Code AS 3500.4. Manufacturers are now part of a quality control system for all water heaters under AS 3498, also known as the Watermark. After successfully undergoing an assessment process, manufacturers are entitled to attach the Watermark to their products and promotional material.

Warranties and standards on heat pump hot water systems

Check that the heat pump has a generous warranty of at least 5 years, and that prompt service is available in your area. This is perhaps more of an issue than with traditional hot water systems as the units are less common and their maintenance is slightly more specialised.

You have rights to protect you as a consumer if you have a problem with a solar hot water or heat pump system installed in your home. This includes the rights you have under Australian Consumer Law.

Your consumer rights

Australian Consumer Law has rules for responsible marketing and selling, products being fit for purpose, and warranties being honoured.

When you buy a system find out who you should contact if there is a fault, and be aware of the warranties available with your system.

If you have a problem with a product, service or unfulfilled contract try to resolve it directly with your retailer first. Putting your complaint in writing gives you records of your dealings with it.

If you are unable to contact the business, or you do not receive a satisfactory response within a reasonable time, you could lodge a complaint with Consumer Affairs Victoria, who may be able to assist.

The Solar Energy page on the Consumer Affairs Victoria website has advice on the next steps, from dealing with a faulty product such as a solar inverter, problems with installation and dealing with insolvent businesses.

You may also choose to take your complaint further by applying to a court or tribunal, such as the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT), or seek your own independent legal advice.

More information, including who to contact about your rights as a consumer, see Consumer protection.

Ensuring safety in the Solar Homes Program

The Solar Homes Program requires the highest standards in safety, which is the responsibility of workers and their employers who must ensure their teams are trained, supervised and equipped to do the job safely.

Solar Victoria is working with a range of agencies to minimise risk to works and householders getting new solar installations.

WorkSafe Victoria and Energy Safe Victoria are conducting inspections at the time of installation. Independent post-installation audits commissioned by Solar Victoria are underway.

The post installation auditing process assesses electrical safety, confirms the equipment installed is what was quoted for, and that the installer was approved by the Clean Energy Council to do the work. It also confirms that the inspection by the Licensed Electrical lnspector was done correctly.

An enforcement committee made up of various regulators (WorkSafe Victoria, Energy Safe Victoria, Consumer Affairs Victoria, Victorian Building Authority) and the Clean Energy Council reviews each matter to determine if further action is needed.