Clean Energy Regulator set loose on solar cowboys

Energy Minister Angus Taylor has tasked the Clean Energy Regulator to lead an investigation into the household solar ­industry.

Energy Minister Angus Taylor. Picture: AAP

Energy Minister Angus Taylor has tasked the Clean Energy Regulator to lead an investigation into the household solar ­industry, amid concerns it is being undermined by substandard or unsafe panel installations.

Mr Taylor said the regulator’s investigation would focus on ensuring integrity in the growing sector.

“Protecting the integrity of a system that has such a wide ranging impact on Australian households and businesses is a top priority,” Mr Taylor said.

A 2018 report by the CER found 2.2 per cent of systems were unsafe, while 20 per cent were substandard.

After the report was released, Mr Taylor wrote to state and territory energy ministers warning that lives could be at risk from unsafe or substandard solar panel installations.

In his letter, Mr Taylor noted the growth in uptake of rooftop solar was 20 per cent a year, with capacity growing at 50 per cent a year. “This level of growth will bring many new electricians to the ­industry and potentially a large number of inexperienced workers, and may also attract lower quality suppliers and unscrupulous operators,” he said.

“This may give rise to consumer issues and pose risks to worker safety during installation, and electrical and building safety ­following installation.

“I encourage you to consider the potential risks associated with the rapid growth of rooftop solar PV in your jurisdiction, and to take appropriate action to ­ensure safety and consumer risks are ­appropriately managed.”