The New Energy Tech Consumer Code (NETCC) program helps protect consumers buying solar, batteries and new energy tech by setting standards for fair, predictable and transparent sales practices. Three years after the launch of the program, the NETCC Code Monitoring and Compliance Panel led an independent review of the program, conducted by PATHMAKER in partnership with grids, to assess the evolving role of the program in a rapidly changing market.
The review drew on extensive
consultation across the sector, including consumers, Approved Sellers,
regulators, government agencies, consumer advocates and NETCC governance
representatives, alongside analysis of program data and comparable consumer
protection frameworks.
The NETCC Independent Review provides 10 key recommendations to guide the next phase of the
NETCC, ensuring it remains trusted, responsive and aligned with the needs of
consumers, industry and government.
The NETCC Independent Review found that the NETCC has established a credible and increasingly important role as a voluntary, industry-led consumer protection framework for Australia's new energy tech market.
The program has helped raise standards across the industry by providing nationally consistent consumer protections and improving sales practices, customer disclosures and service standards. It also fills important gaps not comprehensively addressed by other regulatory frameworks.
As the market continues to mature, the review identified opportunities to build on the strong foundations of the Code and support its future role in the new energy technology market. The review provides a roadmap for the next phase of the NETCC program, with 10 recommendations focused on the future role of the Code, a scalable operating model, enhanced compliance and consumer confidence, and ensuring the program remains responsive as new technologies, products and business models emerge.
"This review confirms that the Code has established a credible and increasingly important foundation as a voluntary, industry-led consumer protection framework within the CER market. As the energy system continues to decentralise and digitise, the role of trusted governance arrangements becomes even more critical."
NETCC Independent Review, PATHMAKER and grids
The NETCC Council will now work with the program Administrator, the Clean Energy Council, to develop an implementation plan that considers the review’s recommendations and identifies priorities for action. Progress updates will be shared through NETCC Council communiqués published on this website.
"This review marks an important milestone for the NETCC. It recognises the importance of the program in protecting consumers and supporting confidence in Australia's rapidly evolving new energy technologies market, while providing a clear roadmap for the future. By implementing the report's recommendations, the NETCC will be well placed to continue building trust and confidence as Australia's energy transition accelerates."
Clare Petre, Chair, NETCC Council
Read the NETCC Independent Review
Download the review