Upcoming deadline for expiring photovoltaic modules (IEC 61215: 2016)
The Clean Energy Regulator has issued the following update:
The Clean Energy Council (CEC) are transitioning all photovoltaic (PV) modules on the CEC approved list to the 2021 version of the IEC 61215 standard. The extensions granted to various models tested to the 2016 version of the standard will expire on 31 March 2025.
From 1 April 2025, solar installations must use PV modules certified to the 2021 version of IEC 61215 standard to claim small-scale technology certificates (STCs).
Important information for installers and retailers
To be eligible for STCs, all 2016 stock must be tested and commissioned by 31 March 2025. If you’re unsure, you can confirm the version of the IEC 61215 standard the PV module was tested to by checking the label located on the back of the panel.
Make sure you check your stock and ensure that 2016 panels are installed, tested and fully commissioned by the deadline to avoid missing out on STCs. We recommend collecting photos of the PV module labels (showing the version of the IEC standard) for your records.
Important information for registered agents
As an agent you are expected to make sure the PV modules in your STC claims are eligible. We recommend collecting photos of the PV module labels (showing the version of the IEC standard) from installers and retailers before submitting claims. This will help you avoid improper creation of STCs.
When submitting STC claims, make sure you are only including the (IEC 61215-2021) suffix for PV modules tested to the new standard. Include both models where there is a mixture of 2016 and 2021 stock (if submitted before expiry).
The Clean Energy Regulator is using the solar panel serial number ledger to cross-check all serial numbers submitted in STC claims to confirm eligibility. If you are found to be using expired PV modules, your claim will be failed, and we may take further compliance action.
Contact the CEC products team on products@cleanenergycouncil.org.au if you have any concerns.
