The State Electricity Commission (SEC) has opened expressions of interest to build a network of SEC-endorsed installers and trade businesses to power Victoria’s electric future.
The government-owned renewable energy company is inviting installers and trade businesses with expertise in home electrification to submit an expression of interest in becoming SEC-endorsed.
SEC Executive General Manager, Consumer and Innovation, Sumone Chakravarti, said the initiative is part of the SEC’s work to help Victorians overcome barriers to electrification through a simplified, ‘one-stop-shop’ approach, including trusted advice about the services and technologies available.
“Around 80 per cent of Victorians are still connected to gas and we know they stand to save thousands of dollars a year on their energy bills by converting their homes to electric,” she said.
“At the same time, we know Victorians face barriers to go electric, including cost, complexity, feeling overwhelmed about appliances and low trust in the sector.”
Chakravarti said the one-stop shop is being designed to address these pain points.
“By vetting and endorsing installers, we can support Victorians to make informed decisions about their investments and the benefits they deliver.
“We know experienced trades and installer businesses are vital to Victoria’s energy transition. By partnering with these businesses, we’re making it easier for Victorians to access the advice and services they need to electrify their homes with confidence,” Chakravarti said.
The SEC said installers who wish to participate should have expertise across aspects of home electrification, including heat pump hot water, solar panels, heating and cooling.
Installer and trade businesses from metropolitan and regional areas are encouraged to apply.
They must have experience delivering similar programs and meet criteria covering professional certifications, licences, accreditations, experience, track record, product quality and warranties.
Endorsed installers must also be authorised under relevant rebate and incentive programs, such as Solar Victoria’s Solar Homes and the Victorian Energy Upgrades scheme.
The SEC offers simple and practical solutions so households can understand the support available and make the switch.
As part of its one-stop-shop approach, the SEC previously launched an electric home planner, which has already been used by more than 13,000 Victorians to take the guesswork out of going electric. It uses information about the home to create a personalised plan, including indicative appliance costs, government rebates, anticipated return on investment and emissions reduction.
The planner, currently being expanded as part of the one-stop-shop, will then provide connection to a local SEC-endorsed installer, who can develop a tailored assessment and detailed quote based on the household’s individual needs.
Find out more about the expression of interest or access the electric home planner via the SEC’s website: www.secvictoria.com.au/powerup/register-your-interest-SEC-endorsed-installer/
