The new Cheaper Home Batteries Program has generated strong interest, offering a clear pathway to greater energy independence—especially for households with existing solar systems. But while the opportunity is substantial, so too are the compliance demands for solar and battery retailers and installers.
In this article, we break down key requirements of the rebate scheme and the Clean Energy Council’s NETCC (New Energy Tech Consumer Code), and outline how to safeguard your business against costly non-compliance and callbacks.
New Compliance Expectations Under the Battery Rebate
With the introduction of the battery rebate, battery upgrade proposals must now meet a higher standard of accuracy and documentation. In particular, retailers are required to provide:
- A written statement that the battery system will perform in line with the contract
- A detailed proposal demonstrating:
- Projected payback period
- Estimated energy benefits and cost savings
- Current and expected energy needs of the premises
This means that simplistic or generic savings estimates are no longer acceptable. To remain compliant, proposals must be backed by comprehensive system modelling that includes
- The existing solar system and the proposed upgrade
- A realistic daily load profile and tariff structure
- Battery charge/discharge behaviour (including AC/DC coupling, derating, export limits)
- Time-of-use tariff modelling, if recommending a change
The goal is to clearly demonstrate that the battery system is fit for purpose.
NETCC Requirements for Battery Proposals
Retailers and installers accredited under the NETCC program must meet additional obligations when offering battery or other new energy tech solutions.
Key NETCC proposal requirements include:
Solar system performance (efficiency, tilt, orientation)
Battery specifications (nameplate/usable capacity)
Monthly system autonomy and energy consumption estimates
Self-consumption figures for both existing and proposed systems
Any available backup or off-grid capabilities
The customer must also receive a comparative estimate of their monthly energy bill—before and after installation.
Furthermore, the Terms and Conditions must include a clear statement that you will not mislead the customer regarding the expected impact on their energy usage or costs.
What This Means for Retailers and Installers
The rebate and NETCC frameworks are designed to protect consumers, but they also place the onus on retailers to present accurate, transparent proposals. If you fail to meet the requirements, you risk:
Failed CER inspections
Voided STC claims
Callbacks and system rectification costs
Reputational damage
Some documentation can be provided post-sale, but it must be supplied within the 10-day cooling-off period.
Stay Ahead with SolarPlus
SolarPlus provides end-to-end system design, modelling, and proposal tools that meet the latest rebate and NETCC standards. Whether you’re quoting a new install or a complex upgrade, we help you ensure compliance, reduce risk, and maintain your reputation.
Need support with your proposal documentation?
Contact SolarPlus today to learn how we can help you stay ahead in a changing regulatory environment.
