Heat's on dodgy solar system deals Look for a solar installer who offers a whole-of-system warranty Source: Supplied COMPLAINTS to the national consumer authority about solar electricity systems have increased more than 30 per cent in the past year, with deceptive or misrepresented claims about a system's expected performance among the big concerns. As consumers spend thousands of dollars on solar systems that should last many years, industry representatives say finding a reliable retailer and doing research should protect your investment. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission received 1613 complaints about solar systems in 2012, up from 1229 the year before. These are in addition to complaints made to state-based fair trading authorities. Clean Energy Council policy manager Darren Gladman says when buying a solar system, consumers should ensure they use a reputable retailer. "One of the things you need to be aware of when buying a system is there's more to the retailer than just the price they offer and them shipping it out to you," he says. The question of follow-up and customer service and commitment to a warranty is equally important, but often overlooked when making a purchasing decision. He says as well as the usual 25-year warranty on the solar panels and five years on the inverter, buyers should seek a five-year whole-of-system warranty from the retailer. "If the retailer is not prepared to offer a whole-of-system warranty, I'd reconsider whether you want to go with that retailer," he said. Figures from the Clean Energy Regulator show there are more than 900,000 solar systems installed in Australia. Consumer group Choice's head of campaigns, Matt Levey, says consumers should ensure they use a Clean Energy Council accredited installer and purchase a system that meets Australian standards. If problems arise they should return to the place of purchase and if that fails, go to their state's office of fair trading. Energy Matters owner Nick Brass says it used to be the case that lower quality solar panels were being made in China, but that standard is improving. However, the highest quality inverters are made in Europe and the US, he says. Your solar system is going to be on your house for 25 years and you want something that will harvest the sun as much as possible. Is the installer accredited? Ask to see their photo ID card. Check the list of accredited installers on the Clean Energy Council website to confirm. Call former customers to find out if the installer was knowledgeable, easy to work with, and took the time to explain how it worked. How many systems similar to your system have they completed? Do the modules and inverters used meet the Australian Standards? Source: cleanenergycouncil.org.au