Accreditation Information
About Accreditation
The Clean Energy Regulator (CER) has recently made significant changes to the accreditation process, impacting all Accredited Installers and Designers. On 29 February 2024, the Clean Energy Regulator (CER) announced that Solar Accreditation Australia (SAA) were the new Accreditation Scheme Operator.
From 29 of May 2024, only SAA Accredited designers and installers will be eligible to interact with the CER’s Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme. Supporting Australia to reduce, offset and track our emissions | Clean Energy Regulator.
SAA is now accepting new applications for Grid Connected PV (GCPV),Stand Alone Power (SPS) and Grid Connect Battery Storage (GCBS)accreditation. Accreditation requirements, including training units, remain unchanged initially. SAA will acknowledge CPD previously completed under CEC’s Accreditation scheme.
Should You Apply For Accreditation?
Any individual who wishes to design or install Grid Connected PV systems (GCPV), Grid Connected Battery Systems (GCBS) or Stand Alone Power Systems (SPS) must be accredited under the SAA Scheme in order to be eligible for small-scale technology certificates (STCs).
In addition, many state-based rebate programs require the installer to be an Accredited Person.
Accreditation provides a high level of quality assurance, ensuring appropriately licensed and skilled persons are accredited. SAA requires accredited persons to continue their training and professional development, ensuring that their knowledge and skills remain current with respect to new technologies and changes to Standards and Regulations. To learn more about the Small Scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES) and Small-Scale Technology Certificates (STCs), click here.
Accreditation Pathways
Whether you are new to renewables or adding a new technology scope, our tiered pathways recognise your current competencies and guide you to full accreditation with minimal administrative overhead. The general process for accreditation is listed below, though it is best to check our accreditation pathways page to ensure you have all required documentation for your desired accreditation type.
- Apply: Submit our online application with photo ID, head-shot, public-liability certificate, and a current Statement of Attainment from an approved RTO for your chosen pathway.
- Sit the Accreditation Exam: Complete the open-book, standards-based assessment delivered via CPD Hub to verify your technical and regulatory knowledge.
- Receive Accreditation: On passing, pay the upgrade fee to receive your digital certificate and SAA accreditation number, instantly visible on the public register.
- Maintain Currency: Earn 100 CPD points within each year of your accreditation timeframe. Evidence logged through the CPD Hub and My SAA.
Accreditation Types
SAA Accreditation is therecognised benchmark for competency and expertise in the small-scale renewable sector. Accreditations provide independent and nationally portable ways to communicate your technical competence, specialised knowledge and ongoing professional development.
GCPV
Grid-Connected Photovoltaics
A Grid-Connected Photovoltaic (GCPV) system is an energy generation setup where photovoltaic (PV) modules (solar panels) produce DC electricity, which is converted into AC electricity via an inverter. This energy powers the home, with any excess fed back into the electricity grid.
GCPV is an accreditation for professionals who design and/or install grid-connected photovoltaic systems, including PV modules, inverters, and their integration with the grid.
The following accreditation types are available:
- Design only
- Install only
- Design and Install
GCBS
Grid-Connected Battery Storage
Grid-connected battery systems store energy from solar or other sources and supply power when solar isn’t available, such as at night. They help lower electricity costs and reduce pressure on the grid during peak times.
GCBS accreditation certifies individuals to safely design and/or install home battery systems in line with industry standards.
Accreditation types available:
- Design only
- Install only (only as an add-on to an existing accreditation; GCPV prerequisite units required)
- Design and Install
SPS
Stand-alone Power Systems
Stand-Alone Power Systems are fully independent energy generation and storage systems that operate without any connection to the electricity grid. These systems typically combine solar panels, energy storage (such as batteries), and a backup power source to reliably supply electricity to homes or other buildings.
SPS accreditation certifies individuals to safely design and/or install complete stand-alone systems, ensuring they have the skills and knowledge to meet industry standards.
The following accreditation types are available:
- Design only
- Install only
- Design and Install
The Importance of Choosing Accredited Installers and Service Providers
When choosing an installer, always look for official accreditation badges. They show the installer is properly trained, up to date with safety standards, and qualified to install your system correctly.
Accredited professionals stay current with the latest rules and technologies, helping ensure your system is safe, efficient, and eligible for government incentives like STCs.
To protect your home and investment, check the badges—and use the tool below to confirm their accreditation is valid.
FAQs
How do I gain SAA accreditation if I’m new?
1. Apply online
Submit your application form, upload the required documents, and pay the application fee. We’ll review your submission to confirm eligibility and training requirements.
2. Complete the accreditation exam
If approved, you’ll be invited to sit an open-book exam via LearnUpon. This assesses your knowledge of the relevant Australian Standards and technical requirements for your chosen scope.
3. Activate your accreditation
Once you pass the exam, pay to upgrade and receive your official SAA accreditation certificate and number.
4. Stay current with CPD
To keep your accreditation active each year, you’ll need to complete 100 CPD points across the required categories between 1 October and 30 September.
What does Accreditation cost?
Here’s a clear breakdown of SAA Accreditation fees:
Initial Accreditation: $598.95 application + $116.05 registration
Additional Accreditations: $598.95 (GCPV or GCBS) or $250 (SPS) + separate registration fees
Renewal: $690 every 3 years (with CPD and documentation requirements)
These fees cover application assessment, exam access, accreditation registration, and CPD activation.
View our fees at the link below.
What is CPD?
CPD (Continuing Professional Development) ensures all accredited installers and designers stay up to date with current standards, technologies, and industry practices. To maintain your accreditation, you must complete 100 CPD points each year across approved learning categories.
How does the CPD cycle work and how do I track points?
The CPD year runs from 1 October to 30 September. If you gain accreditation partway through the cycle, your points requirement will be prorated.
You can track your CPD points and any demerit points in the My SAA portal. Eligible CPD courses can be completed through the CPD Hub or SAA-accredited training providers.
Ready for SAA Accreditation?
Apply below to start your journey.
