source: Clean Energy Regulator
Information for agents and installers
We are currently in a transition period where both versions of the standard for inverters may be installed and eligible for small-scale technology certificates (STCs). However, from 18 December 2021, installed inverters that meet the 2015 version of the standard will not be eligible for STCs under the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES).
Registered persons, agents, retailers and installers are encouraged to manage their inverter stock carefully. All inverters installed from 18 December 2021 must be listed as 2020 compliant on the Clean Energy Council’s list of approved inverters to receive STCs.
Agents must also ensure they are updating their processes to assure themselves inverters meet all STC eligibility requirements. You must ensure you are collecting and recording correct information for eligible inverters.
Installers and retailers should check with their suppliers to confirm which standard their inverters meet, and be able to provide you with this information. You must ensure the new inverter standard is met to avoid the improper creation of STCs.
Please visit our website for further information about your responsibilities as an agent, expected capabilities and standards of practice.
Inverters that meet the new standard are now being listed on the Clean Eenergy Council’s list of approved inverters and agents are encouraged to check the list regularly for product expiry dates. Please ensure the inverter model number is listed exactly as recorded on the Clean Energy Council product list when submitting STC claims in bulk to avoid any errors. Agents should also refer to our email correspondence sent on [x datehttps://www.cleanenergycouncil.org.au/contact" target="_blank" rel="noopener" class="has-icon external"> Clean Energy Council, or contact the Clean Energy Regulator on 1300 553 542 or by email at
Information about large-scale solar system accreditation
The inverter standard will affect all applicants seeking the accreditation of photovoltaic (PV) solar systems as power stations in the Large-scale Renewable Energy Target (LRET).
Section 14 of the Renewable Energy (Electricity) Act 2000 read in conjunction with regulation 4 of the Renewable Energy (Electricity) Regulations 2001 specifies that electricity generation systems must be operated in accordance with any relevant Commonwealth, state, territory or local government planning and approval requirements in order to be eligible for accreditation as a power station.
Included in requirements, power station applicants must provide the Clean Energy Regulator with a copy of the electrical safety certificate issued by the licensed electrician for their system. The electrician should ensure all aspects of the installation comply with relevant standards. This means that inverters being installed in large-scale PV solar systems from 18 December 2021 onward must meet AS/NZS 4777.2:2020.
National regulators have allowed a transition period where inverters that meet both revisions of the Australian Standard may be covered by an electrical safety certificate issued by a licensed electrician. Solar retailers and installers are encouraged to ensure their inverter stock meets the 2020 standard before the 18 December 2021 deadline.
Intending owners of large-scale PV solar systems should check that their installer will install 2020 compliant inverters before they finalise their purchase. Please refer to the Clean Eenergy Council’s list of approved inverters for products compliant with AS/NZS 4777.2:2020.
Please see our power station eligibility requirements webpage for more information, or contact us by phone on 1300 553 542 or email
