An investigation by the Clean Energy Regulator has led to a total of 330 charges being laid against a solar retailer and 2 individuals in Western Australia. The offences relate to the provision of:
- false and misleading information contrary to section 145.5(1) of the Criminal Code Act 1995 (Cth)
- false statutory declarations contrary to section 11 of the Statutory Declarations Act 1959 (Cth).
These offences carry a maximum penalty of up to 7 years imprisonment and 4 years’ imprisonment respectively.
It is alleged that between 8 August 2019 to 20 May 2022 the retail company, aided and abetted by 2 individuals, knowingly provided false information which was later relied upon to create small-scale technology certificates. This false information related to the onsite attendance of an accredited installer, who allowed the misuse of their accreditation details and provided false statements in commonwealth statutory declarations.
The Office of the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions (CDPP) is prosecuting the matter following a referral from us. The matters were before the Perth Magistrate Courts on 6 December 2024. They have been adjourned to 28 February 2025.
These charges stem from an investigation that included the execution of a criminal search warrant in September 2022. The investigation was undertaken in collaboration with the Australian Federal Police and Western Australian Department of Energy, Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety – Building and Energy Division.
We continue to collaborate with federal and state bodies to ensure that we use the full suite of powers available to detect and respond to serious non-compliance.
We have zero tolerance for fraud. Those who do not comply with their obligations will have enforcement action taken against them where it’s warranted under our compliance, education and enforcement policy.
Find out more about our Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme compliance activities.