Australia’s New Energy Tech Consumer Code (NETCC) program launched on 1 February, 2023, with its aim being to raise the nation’s consumer protection standards for purchases of new energy behind-the-meter tech, including rooftop solar, battery storage, EV chargers and home energy management systems.
The Clean Energy Council is administering the NETCC, which is a voluntary code of conduct designed by peak industry and consumer bodies to build upon existing mandatory consumer protection regulations defined by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC).
The NETCC replaces Australia’s Approved Solar Retailer program, expanding the coverage of consumer protection beyond solar and storage. It is designed and governed by the NETCC Council, comprising peak industry and consumer bodies such as the Australian Energy Council, Clean Energy Council, Consumer Action Law Centre, Energy Consumers Australia, Energy Networks Australia, Public Interest Advocacy Centre and Renew.
“The new code will provide consumers with a wide range of information in advance of purchases, and empower providers to achieve the highest standards of service and consumer protection,” says NETCC chair Clare Petre.
“The code will be key in supporting consumers as they embrace new energy tech as part of a renewable energy future.”
Retailers participating in the program will demonstrate to customers they are committed to consumer protection standards, including fair and honest quotes, ethical sales practices and after-sales customer service.
“The Clean Energy Council is dedicated to delivering the NETCC so our industry can give the Australian public confidence their rooftop solar system, battery, EV charger and other new energy tech products are provided by a retailer committed to the best standard of service within the industry,” said Clean Energy Council chief executive Kane Thornton in July 2022, when it was announced his organisation would administer the program.
The Clean Energy Council aims to ensure consistency of the NETCC through education of consumers to make informed purchases of new energy tech products; supporting businesses to continually improve their sales and marketing practices; and operating a well-established and robust monitoring, compliance and enforcement regime.
The NETCC will be independently reviewed every three years.