Featured image: SAA will be releasing mandatory switchboard CPD modules in October and November this year.
Mid-scale solar: information for SAA accreditees
From 1 October 2026, eligible PV systems between 100 kW and 1 MW will be able eligible for Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs), bringing more commercial and industrial solar projects into the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES) framework.
For solar installers, this creates opportunities to deliver larger projects under the SRES and offer consumers an upfront financial incentive through STCs. We remind installers that mid-scale installations involve additional requirements for system design, safety, network connection and compliance along with ensuring that planning, building and network connection approvals are documented.
SAA Requirements
GCPV and/or SPS accreditation holders - can claim the PV component of eligible mid-scale installations under the SRES
Technical Requirements are being updated to reflect:
One system per day limit applies for mid-scale installs
Existing inverter oversizing requirements apply.
Further guidance on mid-scale solar application process and timeframes will be communicated on the CER website.
Relevant CPD training is encouraged
Installers intending to work on mid-scale projects are encouraged to complete CPD training in commercial and industrial solar installations.
Update from the Clean Energy Regulator
We're responsible for administering the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES). This includes reviewing small-scale technology certificates (STC) applications and supporting compliance with scheme requirements.
These changes apply to eligible mid-scale solar systems installed from 1 October. STC applications are expected to open in mid to late November 2026 once the systems and processes are in place. Assessment of STC applications will begin after this time.
Recent inspection findings have highlighted several recurring issues for solar PV installations.
Earthing and bonding
Proper bonding and earthing of solar panel frames is critical to maintain electrical safety and ensure a continuous fault path across the array. Common issues identified during inspections include poorly installed bonding connections, missing bonding components, and earthing hardware positioned in a way that may damage panel backsheets or compromise long-term system reliability.
How to avoid it:
follow manufacturer instructions when installing bonding and earthing components
use approved fittings designed for the PV mounting system
ensure earthing hardware does not contact or damage module backsheets
maintain electrical continuity across all panel frames
check and record continuity testing results before handover.
DC cable support and conduit routing
Unsupported or poorly routed DC cabling can expose cables to movement, abrasion and heat. This can increase the risk of insulation failure over time, exposing live conductors and making future maintenance or isolation difficult.
How to avoid it:
secure all DC cables using fit-for-purpose cable supports
plan conduit routes before installation begins
protect cables from abrasion, mechanical damage and environmental exposure
inspect the entire accessible cable route before completing the installation.
More information
SAA accredited installers can access training to further develop their knowledge through approved training providers and the SAA CPD program.
Working with industry
We're committed to working with industry to support safe, high-quality installations under the SRES.
New mandatory switchboard training: coming in October and November
As the uptake of rooftop solar and other distributed energy resources (DER) continues to grow, it is increasingly important for accredited installers to understand how these technologies affect the demands placed on existing switchboards.
To support this, SAA will be releasing two mandatory switchboard modules in the CPD Hub.
The modules will help participants assess whether existing switchboards can safely and compliantly support new DER equipment. Content will cover switchboard assessment, including: maximum demand, current summation, protection requirements, switchboard suitability, common compliance issues, and what to consider when integrating DER.
The modules have been funded by Solar Victoria and are FREE
to complete.
ALL accreditees will be required to complete both modules by 1 June 2027. Where individuals have already met their annual CPD requirement and completing the mandatory modules pushes them over their 100 points requirement, points will be credited to the next CPD cycle.
Regulator takes compliance action
The Clean Energy Regulator has taken compliance action following investigations into conduct under the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES).
A Victorian solar installer has been convicted and fined $10,000 for intentionally making a false statement in a statutory declaration related to SRES claims, including declarations about onsite attendance.
Providing false information in a statutory declaration is a serious offence and undermines the integrity of the scheme.
SAA has suspended the individual's accreditation following formal notifications from the regulator and may take further action on regulator referrals where required.
SAA is presenting the Switchboards: Assessing Existing Installations training course at All Energy in October.
The course provides practical guidance on assessing whether existing switchboards can safely and compliantly support solar PV, battery storage, EV charging and other distributed energy resources.
Come along to the presentation to learn how to evaluate switchboard capacity, maximum demand, current summation, protection requirements, service fuse and consumer mains limitations, common compliance issues, and when upgrades or load management strategies may be required.
Location: All Energy Masterclass Program
Date: Wednesday 28 October
Time: 1.30pm - 2.30pm
Length of presentation: 1 hour
CPD points: 10
Accreditees who attend the face-to-face course delivery will need to provide their SAA accreditation number during the training to be enrolled in the course, and to complete a short knowledge assessment to earn CPD points.
Solar Victoria is supporting a free hearing health initiative at All Energy this year. Attendees can book a FREE 10-minute hearing check for adults, conducted by On-Site Hearing Pty Ltd, outside the main entrance at Door 6.
The hearing check includes:
Ear canal inspection
Air conduction hearing test
Printed results and brief explanation
As an added bonus, the first 50 participants will receive a free pair of Shield Right Class 5-rated earmuffs.
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