Solar Victoria Extends System Installation Deadlines

Image: Solar Victoria

With solar panel installations underway again in Melbourne, installers have been given some leeway under Victoria’s Solar Homes program in terms of deadlines.

While installations couldn’t proceed in the vast majority of cases during the lockdown period, that didn’t discourage Melbourne residents from looking into installing solar power and getting quotes for systems in preparation for post-lockdown. We saw a bunch of Melbourne residents through our virtual doors here at SolarQuotes over the entire period.

Solar installations were able to recommence in Melbourne as of October 19 after the lengthy metropolitan lockdown, although it took a few more days to gain clarification on the new COVID-Safe work processes.

With the previous level of restrictions in the rear-view mirror and hopefully to never return again, installers have a backlog of work to get through.

Under the conditions of Victoria’s solar rebate, installations usually need to occur within four months of the customer application being approved. But recognising the complications brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown, Solar Victoria announced last week it was providing extra time for installations to be completed.

“This will help ensure high standards of safety, quality and customer experience are maintained,” said the agency.

Safety doesn’t just refer to the physical installation – but also in relation to COVID. Rushed workers might be pressured or tempted to take risks with regard to both and that’s not good for anyone. Solar Victoria has also recently published updated operating guidance for installers.

Rebate applications approved prior 19 October 2020 will receive an additional 60 days on the installation timeframe, while applications approved from 19 October to 31 December 2020 will receive an additional 30 days. Installers have been advised to complete installations for their oldest applications first.

The extensions are being applied automatically, so customers and retailers don’t need to make a request.

The agency has also developed other special provisions relating to the rebate in light of the coronavirus situation and encourages installers or customers finding themselves facing whatever challenges to contact Solar Victoria to discuss their circumstances.

Solar Panel Rebate Availability

The state’s hugely popular program offers a subsidy of up to $1,850 off the cost of a system – and this is in addition to national PV subsidy, also called a solar rebate (even though technically it isn’t).

By around 4pm yesterday afternoon, the Solar Victoria website was showing all solar panel rebates in the current round were spoken for – but don’t panic. A new batch will be released on Wednesday at midday, along with a fresh round of solar battery rebates.