CEC accredited installers Brisbane

Hello neighbour! If you’re starting your solar journey in Brisbane, you’ve probably seen the term “CEC accredited” pop up everywhere. It’s been the gold standard for years, and searching for a CEC accredited installer is a smart move that shows you’re serious about getting a safe, reliable solar system.

But here’s something you need to know: things have changed recently, and I want to walk you through it so you can make confident decisions. The name you really need to look for now is Solar Accreditation Australia (SAA). Let’s break down what this means for your Brisbane solar project.

What happened to CEC accredited installers in Brisbane?

For over a decade, the Clean Energy Council (CEC) was the main body that accredited individual solar installers and designers. This meant that for a solar installation to be eligible for the federal government’s rebate (the Small-scale Technology Certificates, or STCs), the person signing off on the job had to be CEC accredited.

In early 2024, the Clean Energy Regulator (CER) officially passed this responsibility to a new, dedicated body: Solar Accreditation Australia (SAA). The transition was fully completed on 29 May 2024.

So, while you’re searching for “CEC accredited installers Brisbane,” the actual accreditation you need to verify is with SAA. Think of it as a name change for the qualification that matters most. Any installer who was previously CEC accredited had to transfer their credentials over to SAA to continue working on installations that receive rebates.

Gigi’s pro tip: Don’t be alarmed if a company still mentions “CEC accreditation.” The term is well-known, and many are still updating their language. The crucial step is to ask for their SAA accreditation number and verify it yourself.

How to find an SAA accredited installer in Brisbane

While the old CEC website had a tool to find installers, your new go-to resource is the Solar Accreditation Australia website. SAA maintains the official, up-to-date list of all accredited installers and designers in Australia.

Unfortunately, SAA doesn’t currently have a public search tool to browse a list of local installers directly. However, you can—and absolutely should—use it to verify an installer you are considering. Any reputable solar installation company in Brisbane will happily provide the full name and SAA accreditation number of the licensed electrician who will be installing and signing off on your system.

Your list of accredited solar installers in Brisbane: what to look for

Instead of a fixed list, it’s better to know how to build your own shortlist of trusted installers. Here are the steps I recommend:

• Get multiple quotes: Start by requesting quotes from at least three different Brisbane-based solar companies. This gives you a feel for the market price and different proposed solutions.
• Ask for accreditation details upfront: With each quote, ask for the SAA accreditation details of the individual installer who will be on-site. Remember, companies themselves aren’t accredited—the individual electricians are.
• Verify their credentials: Use the SAA website to confirm their accreditation is current.
• Check for endorsements: An installer can have different SAA accreditations. Ensure they are accredited for “Grid-Connected PV systems.” If you’re getting a battery, they’ll need a separate “Grid Connected Battery Systems” endorsement.

Finding the best SAA accredited solar companies in Brisbane: reviews and tips

Accreditation is the minimum requirement; it’s your ticket to entry. To find the best company, you need to dig a little deeper.

• Read independent reviews: Look at reviews on Google, Product Review, and other third-party sites. Pay attention to comments about communication, installation quality, and after-sales support.
• Check their business history: How long have they been operating in Brisbane? A company with a long local history is often a safer bet than one that has just appeared. Use the ABN Lookup website to check their legitimacy and history.
• Ask about their products: A good installer uses high-quality components. They should recommend solar panels and inverters that are on the Clean Energy Council’s separate approved products list. This is a different role the CEC still performs.
• Review their warranty: Look for a comprehensive warranty that covers both the products and the workmanship of the installation for at least five years.

SAA installers vs. NETCC approved sellers: what’s the difference?

This is a really important distinction that often causes confusion.

• SAA Accredited Installer: This is an individual electrician who has proven they have the skills and training to install solar systems safely and to Australian standards. This is mandatory for receiving government rebates.
• NETCC Approved Seller: This is a solar retail company that has voluntarily signed up to the New Energy Tech Consumer Code (NETCC). This code, administered by the CEC, is designed to protect consumers with high standards for marketing, contracts, and customer service. The NETCC replaced the old “CEC Approved Solar Retailer” program.

Choosing a company that is a NETCC Approved Seller provides an extra layer of confidence that you’re dealing with a business committed to ethical practices. However, it is a voluntary scheme. The non-negotiable part is ensuring the person who installs your system is SAA accredited.

How to check SAA accreditation for a solar installer

Verifying an installer’s accreditation is simple and takes just a minute. It’s the most important check you can do.

• Step 1: Ask the solar company for the full name and SAA accreditation number of the installer who will be responsible for your job.
• Step 2: Go to the Solar Accreditation Australia website.
• Step 3: Navigate to their accreditation check or verification tool.
• Step 4: Enter the installer’s name or accreditation number.
• Step 5: Confirm that their accreditation is current and that they have the correct endorsements for your system (e.g., grid-connect solar, batteries).

If a company is hesitant to provide this information, consider it a major red flag.

Solar panel installation quotes in Brisbane CEC certified

When you’re getting quotes, make sure you’re comparing apples with apples. A good quote from a company using SAA accredited installers should always include:

• A detailed breakdown of all costs, including panels, inverter, mounting, and labour.
• The exact make and model of the solar panels and inverter. Check these against the CEC’s approved product lists.
• A clear statement on all warranties, including workmanship.
• An estimate of the system’s performance and your expected savings.
• Confirmation that an SAA accredited installer will perform and sign off on the installation, making you eligible for the STC rebate.

Don’t forget: finding SAA accredited battery installers in Brisbane

If you’re adding a battery to your solar system, the requirements are just as strict. Installing a home battery requires specific skills to ensure it’s done safely and correctly.

Your installer must have a separate design and install accreditation for Grid Connected Battery Systems from SAA. This is particularly important for accessing government incentives like the federal Cheaper Home Batteries Program. Always double-check that your chosen installer holds this specific battery endorsement before proceeding with a solar and battery installation.

Ready to get started?

I know this is a lot to take in, but understanding the shift from CEC to SAA is the key to protecting your investment. By ensuring your installer has a current SAA accreditation, you’re guaranteeing your eligibility for rebates and giving yourself peace of mind that the job will be done right.

If you’re ready for a proper quote, I can introduce you to a trusted, SAA-accredited local expert—just fill out the form below. For a quick, personalised estimate of solar costs and savings for your home, you can also try the free solar assistant on this page.