Solar companies trying to cash in early before the launch of SA’s home battery subsidy scheme
SNEAKY solar companies are trying to cash in early on SA’s world-leading $100 million home battery scheme — prompting an official warning for householders to be wary of potential scams.
SOUTH Australians are warned to be on the lookout for sneaky solar companies trying to cash in on the state’s world-leading $100 million home battery scheme.
Local and interstate businesses have already started advertising as being linked to the scheme before the State Government has finalised details of the deal.
At least one regional SA company has been asking customers for $150 deposits to be at the front of the line, despite having no guarantee they will be an authorised State Government supplier or installer.
Companies found misleading customers could be blacklisted from providing services when the scheme launches next month, Energy Minister Dan van Holst Pellekaan has warned.
“Businesses that continue to deliberately mislead customers or seek to obtain deposits for batteries before they are accredited may have their system provider application refused,” Mr van Holst Pellekaan told the Sunday Mail.
The State Government earlier this month announced one of the world’s most ambitious Government funded home battery schemes will kick off in October, offering householders subsidies of up to $6000.
Mr van Holst Pellekaan warned South Australians eager to apply for the home battery grant and loan program to be aware that registration does not open until October.
He said that under no circumstances should homeowners be providing a deposit to anyone before their registration is confirmed.
“We knew that our home battery scheme would be incredibly popular but it is extremely disappointing that some businesses are attempting to inappropriately exploit that popularity,” Mr van Holst Pellekaan said.
“I am aware of some recent misleading advertising and my department will contact businesses to impress upon them that there are no excuses for misleading South Australians.
“Until businesses have qualified as system providers they cannot provide any assurances to customers about their ability to provide a battery eligible for the subsidy.
“This is why we are requiring system providers to sign up to a code of conduct.”
The Sunday Mail understands information sessions with suppliers are scheduled to happen over the next few weeks.
It is estimated that 40,000 South Australian homes will get subsidised batteries through the scheme.
The State Government is also working with the Federal Government on a plan to get SA householders access to $100 million worth of low-interest loans to help pay for solar panels and battery systems.
German battery giant Sonnen will move rapidly to start assembling its battery technology in Adelaide, at a site that will become its Australian headquarters and shipping centre for the Asian region.
Further information about the home battery scheme is available at www.energymining.sa.gov.au/hbs