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Comparing solar or battery quotes? From 1 December 2026, the updated New Energy Tech Consumer Code (NETCC) puts more of the detail in writing. The changes apply to NETCC Approved Sellers.
A quote built around your home
For a system that will be configured or installed, expect a site-specific design and performance estimate. A generic roof sketch or brochure output figure is not enough. The design can also be supplied as an initial contract deliverable, with cancellation rights explained below.
The estimate must explain seasonal or operational variation, plus its assumptions and limitations. For a Perth home, ask what changes between summer and winter, rather than relying on a single annual total.
A useful question: How does this estimate account for my roof, shading and the way I use electricity?
Put two quotes side by side and check whether they describe the same job. Equipment locations, the proposed layout and the assumptions behind the estimate give you something concrete to compare. If those details differ, ask the seller to explain the difference before deciding which price represents better value.
The design fee you may not get back
Before you agree, the quote must identify any design fee, its amount and which part is refundable. A properly disclosed non-refundable fee may be retained under the relevant cancellation provision, including if network connection approval is refused.
For New Energy Tech that requires physical installation, clauses 19 and 46 cover an agreed arrangement in which the site-specific installation design or plan and the site-specific performance estimate are supplied as initial contract deliverables rather than with the quote. If you notify the retailer within 10 business days of receiving them that you do not accept them, you can cancel under that provision and receive a refund less any applicable non-refundable fees disclosed as required by the Code. Where the unsolicited-sale cooling-off provision in clause 51 applies, clause 19 says this additional 10-business-day period follows the expiry of that cooling-off period.
This is not a universal right to cancel any solar or battery purchase without cost. Ask which provisions apply to your agreement and have design fees, deposits and refund terms explained before you agree.
It is worth asking what you receive for the fee as well. Is it a completed design you can keep, or an early assessment? Understanding the deliverable makes the refund terms easier to judge.
Keep the offer and later changes together
The updated NETCC begins on 1 December 2026. For physically installed technology, the retailer and customer must legally accept the contract and any amendments before installation. Electronic acceptance is permitted.
For example, if the battery needs a different wall or panels must move around a roof vent, the seller should send you the revised design. Both parties must legally accept the amendment before installation. Electronic acceptance is permitted. Keep that version with your contract.
Before approving a revision, ask whether it affects the price, expected output or how you will use the system. A different equipment location might also change access, so take a moment to understand the proposal.
The paperwork belongs with the system
Keep one pack containing:
- System details: ratings, commissioning date and equipment locations.
- Equipment records: model descriptions and serial numbers.
- Operating instructions: for the system and its components.
- Manufacturer documents: to refer to when you need support.
Save a digital copy alongside your signed design and contract. Serial numbers are much easier to find there than behind installed equipment.
At handover, ask the installer to walk you through the operating instructions and show you where to find the support contacts. It is a useful chance to resolve questions while someone familiar with the installation is there.
Your seller remains the first call
The Approved Seller remains responsible for code compliance by third parties acting on its behalf, including subcontractors and suppliers. Start with the seller if the installation does not match what you agreed.
The code administrator can also accept a complaint from your representative, such as someone helping you manage a parent's system.
A clear record helps that conversation: keep the agreed design, describe what differs and include relevant photographs. You are giving the seller a specific issue to investigate.
Check the seller’s status before you commit
Existing Approved Sellers can opt out between 19 October and 2 November 2026. Those that do leave the program on 30 November and must stop using the badge.
Check the Approved Seller register before choosing a retailer. If your purchase spans the transition, check again after 30 November. A badge copied onto a website is not a current register check.
This matters for the WA Residential Battery Scheme: participating vendors need Approved Seller status, alongside the scheme's other requirements.
For a practical list to keep beside the offer, use our NETCC homeowner guide. It brings the scheme-specific check, contract questions and handover papers into one place.
Sources checked 9 October 2026: NETCC's transition arrangements, update guide and clause-by-clause changes. Working on the installation side? Read the McKercher installer briefing.