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July 2025

Battery Modules are now in the CPD Hub 

Two Battery CPD modules are now live in the CPD Hub and available for FREE to all accreditation holders.

The modules have been developed to address key compliance risks identified through state and territory inspection programs. They focus on issues that rank among the top 10 most common non-compliances that present significant safety risks in battery storage installations. 

• Parallel Earth & Neutral Connections
  10 minutes | 5 CPD pts
  
  
• Fire Barrier Requirements & Habitable Rooms
  30 minutes | 15 CPD pts

Completion of these modules is mandatory for GCBS and SPS Accredited Designers and Installers, and we strongly encourage other SAA accreditees to complete them. Even if battery systems aren’t your primary focus, completing these modules will ensure you're well-prepared to deliver safe, high-quality installations that comply with Australian Standards and support the Cheaper Home Batteries Program (CHBP).

Need CPD points before 30 September?
Complete these two free modules to earn 20 CPD points—automatically added to your SAA Portal profile.

How to access:

• GSBC and SPS accreditees: find the modules in the "Learning Not Started" section of the CPD Hub.

• All others: access them for free in the Store section of the CPD Hub.

Update from the Clean Energy Regulator 

We are responsible for administering the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES). This includes ensuring scheme compliance and reviewing STC applications.

Solar batteries are new to the scheme. We’ll be providing a monthly update, including common installation issues and reminders, to help you comply with scheme requirements.

Solar battery inspections are underway

Inspections are an important part of the compliance frameworks that allow us to continue to support states and territories in fulfilling their obligations for leading electrical and safety regulation. We are now inspecting solar battery systems that have claimed small-scale technology certificates (STCs).

We share the inspection findings with state and territory electrical and safety regulators who are responsible for compliance with relevant standards and regulations. We also share the findings with SAA to form part of their demerit point process.

Early inspection findings

Our early inspection findings have shown a few common issues. Our inspectors will be looking closely to ensure these items are correct for each installation.

Incorrect labelling of backed-up sub-circuits

Backed-up sub-circuits must be clearly labelled. Incorrect or missing labels can cause dangerous misunderstandings during fault finding or isolation. Some battery systems have a time delay before re-energising back-up circuits after the main switch is turned off. This can lead to an increased risk of electric shock.

Incorrect or missing configured residual current device (RCD) for alternate supply circuits

An appropriately configured RCD is essential to protect against electric shock and fire by detecting current imbalances. Make sure they are correctly configured and installed wherever alternate supply circuits exist.

STC application reminders

It’s important to provide accurate information to ensure smooth processing of STC claims and minimise requests for more information. Here are some helpful reminders.

• Take the right number of installer on-site verification photos. You must have a minimum of 3 photos per system. If installing a solar battery with a solar PV system, you’ll need 6 photos. These must be taken at the start of the installation (as soon as you arrive on site), approximately half-way through the installation, and when testing and commissioning is complete.
• For modular batteries, record and take photos of the serial numbers for all modules. Also record the serial number for the BMU for record keeping purposes.
• When adding to an existing battery system, only claim the new capacity and leave clear notes for your agent about what was previously installed.
• If the battery and inverter are integrated, enter both into the battery form. If it’s a retrofit with a compliant inverter, you don’t need to re-enter the inverter.

Our ongoing commitment

We are committed to working with industry to ensure safe, high-quality installations that deliver confidence to households and businesses. We’ll continue to share inspection findings and guidance through future updates.

Visit our website for more information.

Master Electricians Australia's Annual Benchmark Survey has returned for 2025, offering one of the most comprehensive snapshots of the electrical contracting industry. In just 10 minutes, participants can contribute valuable insights into key trends impacting business operations, supplier relationships, and the factors that drive a successful electrical contracting business.

All participants will receive a copy of the aggregated results, offering data-driven insights to inform strategy and strengthen decision-making.

This is a valuable opportunity for professionals across the industry to help shape its future while gaining practical tools to improve their own operations.

The toolkit supports the industry in the national rollout of the CHBP and is available to all SEC members.

Here’s what you’ll find in the toolkit:

• Recognition & Credibility with the Smart Installer Battery Badge.
• Ready-to-go marketing materials for social, email and in store campaigns.
• Sales Tools to convert leads into customers.
• Training & guidance to stay ahead of the curve and avoid costly mistakes.