The Clean Energy Regulator (CER) has established a solar panel testing program to ensure panels meet Australian standards and are eligible for small-scale technology certificates. Solar panel testing strengthens Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES) integrity for solar system components across the supply chain by improving the quality of products entering the Australian market.
Increased product testing provides better consumer outcomes by ensuring installed solar panels perform as stated by the manufacturer and meet Australian standards.
An independent laboratory tested 567 panels across 14 brands and 18 models. This represents approximately 71% of the panels installed in the residential market from January to March in 2022. The following tests were completed in the first testing round:
- Visual inspection
- Electroluminescence
- Performance at standard test conditions
- Wet leakage
The CER can declare panels that do not meet Australian standards to be ineligible under the SRES. Solar panels that fail testing may be investigated further as part of the CER’s compliance and enforcement approach.
Panel testing data is published in an aggregated format after each testing round.
More information
Visit solar panel testing program for more information or contact us.