Regulators Crack Down on Solar and Energy Rebate Violations
A solar installation firm has been handed a fine of $100,000 for neglecting to implement “fall protection” measures while conducting rooftop photovoltaic (PV) installations. Another company has faced an astonishing forfeiture of $6.2 million worth of energy efficiency certificates due to allegations of submitting false claims and manipulated photographs.
This week has been notably eventful for regulators, with WorkSafe Victoria announcing that the local business, Aus Renewable Development Group, has been convicted and fined after admitting guilt for installing solar panels on residential rooftops without appropriate fall protection at four properties back in 2024.
Previous Offences Considered
WorkSafe highlighted that the company, which benefits from Victoria’s Solar Homes rebate to install rooftop solar systems, has a background of similar criminal offences, dating back to 2023 when it previously failed to provide fall protection during installations.
The case report indicates that the Court considered several factors leading to the sentencing severity, including the company’s subsequent improvements to its occupational health and safety (OHS) protocols and its guilty plea. However, the Court noted a lack of tangible remorse, as the company’s Director did not attend any court proceedings related to the case.
Allegations Against MYOM Australia
In another development in Victoria, the Essential Services Commission (ESC) has refused to register MYOM Australia and has mandated the return of 75,253 energy efficiency certificates due to serious allegations of providing falsified photographic evidence for energy efficiency projects linked to the Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) programme.
The ESC has charged that MYOM Australia, along with its contractors, falsely claimed benefits from lighting upgrades to obtain more certificates. Specific allegations include reusing images of decommissioned lighting as proof for various upgrades, staging and fabricating evidence of both upgrades and decommissioned apparatus, as well as digitally altering photographs.
Consequences for MYOM Australia
As a result of these allegations, the ESC has halted MYOM Australia’s registration and ordered the surrender of certificates valued at $6.2 million. The commission is also contemplating additional actions against the firm.
Meanwhile, a different entity within the VEU framework, Astra Green Solutions Pty Ltd, has had its application for renewing VEU accreditation declined by the ESC due to concerns regarding its previous conduct.
Weight of Compliance History
The commission stated that significant consideration was given to Astra Green Solutions’ compliance record when deciding against the renewal of their accreditation. The ESC emphasised that the firm’s past actions jeopardised consumer choice and faith in the VEU programme, marking the priority of these factors in their decision-making.
“Businesses must acknowledge that accreditation isn’t a one-off achievement; they need to continuously meet the necessary standards each year to prove their ongoing suitability for the programme,” the ESC added.
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