Supporting Your Clients with Solar & Batteries: What ECA WA Members Need to Know

As more WA households turn to renewable energy, electricians are at the forefront of this growing market. Understanding the requirements for selling and installing solar panels, batteries, and other renewable energy systems isn’t just important—it’s essential. As a trusted ECA WA member, you’re uniquely positioned to deliver sound advice, safe and compliant installations, and peace of mind for homeowners investing in their future. Your expertise helps shape the renewable energy landscape in WA.

Here are some of the key requirements and best practice guidelines to consider when providing advice and quotes to WA homeowners.

1. Accreditation and Compliance

Only Solar Accreditation Australia (SAA) accredited designers and installers are eligible to install for rebates.

• Always provide your accreditation number in quotes and documentation.
• Remind clients that accreditation protects them – ensuring both safety and rebate eligibility.

2. Be Across the Rebate Framework

Clients will expect you to explain what’s available:

• Small-Scale Technology Certificates (STCs) – reduce upfront solar costs by ~25%.
• Federal battery rebate – ~$372 per kWh, up to ~$3,700 for a 10 kWh battery.
• WA State rebate – up to $1,300 (Synergy) or $3,800 (Horizon).
• Virtual Power Plant (VPP) participation is required under WA rebates.

Tip: Be clear and factual about rebates. Avoid pressure tactics and help your client understand how incentives apply to their situation.

3. Provide Transparent Quotes

Your professionalism shines through the quality of your quotes. A strong proposal includes:

• Clear system size and roof layout.
• Shading assessment.
• Estimated performance (kWh production, payback, savings).
• Itemised costs including rebates.
• Warranties: 20+ years on panels, 10 years on inverters and workmanship.

4. Focus on Self-Consumption

Most savings come from clients using their own solar power during the day rather than exporting to the grid. Guide them on:

• Running hot water systems, pool pumps, and EV charging during solar hours.
• Using monitoring apps to track consumption.
• Setting timers for appliances to maximise savings.

5. Set Realistic Expectations for Batteries

Not all batteries provide blackout protection – make sure clients understand the difference.

• Clarify warranties and lifespan.
• Highlight future-proofing benefits (EV readiness, home electrification).
• Recalculate payback periods using up-to-date rebate figures.

6. Uphold Professional Standards

As an ECA WA member, you represent the industry’s best practice. Always:

• Avoid unsolicited sales or high-pressure tactics.
• Ensure licences, ABNs and insurances are current.
• Encourage clients to compare multiple quotes.
• Provide maintenance advice: inspection every 3–5 years, system monitoring, and safety checks.

Your Role as an ECA WA Member

By focusing on compliance, transparency, and education, you strengthen the reputation of the WA electrical industry. As a member, you also have access to ECA WA’s resources, updates, and advocacy, helping you deliver the best outcomes for your clients.

Through strong partnerships and advocacy, we are making vital renewable technologies more accessible and affordable for WA households — and supporting our members to lead the way.