SAA Accreditation Scheme – CEO Update
Let me start with a clear acknowledgment: our response times over the past few months haven’t met expectations. The volume of applications and enquiries driven by the Cheaper Home Batteries Program (CHBP) stretched our resources, and many of you experienced delays. That’s not the standard we aim for — and not the experience you should expect. Thank you for your patience and professionalism during this time.
We’ve now improved our internal systems and are working to respond to all enquiries within 1 to 3 business days. To help us maintain this, please avoid sending multiple emails or calls about the same issue — our team will get back to you as quickly as possible.
Recent Scheme Changes
SAA is still a young organisation — not yet 18 months into operation — and while the start has had its challenges, we’ve been focused on strengthening the Scheme and improving your experience as an accreditee. We’ve recently introduced a number of changes that we hope will make a meaningful difference.
1. Accreditation Exam Pathway
In July, we introduced a new Accreditation Exam that provides a faster pathway to full accreditation — without compromising standards. It directly and efficiently tests knowledge of the relevant standards as a prerequisite to joining the Scheme. This change is especially important now, as attractive incentives like the Cheaper Home Batteries Program are bringing new entrants into the industry. That growth is exciting, but it’s vital that everyone entering the field has the right knowledge to uphold safety, quality, and the reputation our industry has worked hard to build.
2.CPD Hub — Saving Time and Expanding Access
The CPD Hub was introduced to reduce administrative burden and save installers time. CPD completed in the Hub is automatically recorded — no need to upload certificates. It also makes CPD more accessible for regional and remote accreditees, where training opportunities aren’t always readily available.
Through the CPD Hub, we’ve now launched two battery-specific modules to support the CHBP. Completion rates have been encouraging, with over 3,300 already recorded. For those with CPD still outstanding, these modules are free and offer 20 CPD points in under 1 hour - a straightforward way to meet your requirements.
Looking ahead, we plan to expand our partnerships with CPD training providers. This will give them the opportunity to deliver their content directly through the Hub, further streamlining the process and improving access for all accreditees.
3. Listening to Industry — Installation Limits
Thank you to everyone who completed the recent survey on installation limits. Your feedback is helping shape our review of what can be safely and compliantly achieved in a day. We’re also conducting ride-alongs with installers to better understand real-world conditions. We’ll share the outcomes of this review in the coming weeks.
4. Working with CER to Support Compliance
We recently met with the Clean Energy Regulator (CER) to review most recent inspection outcomes since the introduction of the CHBP and better understand where installers may be at risk of non-compliance. One area that stood out was labelling, which continues to be a common issue.
We’re now working closely with the CER and will soon engage the training provider network to ensure you receive clear, practical guidance on labelling requirements. We understand this can be a complex area, and we’re committed to helping installers navigate it confidently — with the aim of reducing the risk of adverse inspection findings.
5. Important Note on AS/NZS 4777.1:2024 Essential Learning Module
There are still 1,700 installers who have not yet completed the Essential Learning Module. The deadline remains 30 September. SAA has already extended this timeline twice and unfortunately cannot do so again. Installers who have not completed the module by the deadline may face suspension.
We understand the demands of your work and appreciate the effort it takes to stay current. CPD is a vital part of maintaining high standards and ensuring the industry continues to operate safely and professionally.
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