Ivor Frischknecht to chair Solar Victoria Industry and Consumer Reference Group

Solar Victoria CEO Stan Krpan today announced the establishment of Solar Victoria’s Industry and Consumer Reference Group (ICRG) to ensure the 10-year program is delivered safely, with the highest standards of quality, while creating thousands of new jobs across the state.

The ICRG, meeting today for the first time, will provide ongoing advice to Solar Victoria on matters including safety, standards and quality, consumer protection, technology requirements, product stewardship, future grid requirements, and skills and workforce development.

Former CEO of the Australian Renewable Energy Agency, Ivor Frischknecht, has been appointed independent chair of the ICRG.

The Clean Energy Council, Smart Energy Council, Electrical Trades Union, National Electrical & Communication Association, Consumer Action Law Centre and Energy Networks Australia are also represented in the group.

Representatives from small, medium and large solar businesses from Melbourne and regional Victoria joining the ICRG include Bobbi McKibbin, Solar Integrity; Jack Long, Solar Cutters Pty Ltd; Stephen Harty, CSR Bradford Energy; Sophie Wright, Velocity Solar; and Warwick Johnston of SunWiz.

The ICRG was announced as part of a package of measures to boost the Solar Homes program and meet the high demand for solar systems, increasing the number of rebates available this financial year to more than 63,400 and providing a free business mentoring program.

The $1.3 billion Solar Homes program is delivering rooftop solar systems, solar batteries and solar hot water systems to 770,000 households across Victoria over a decade.

Quotes attributable to Solar Victoria CEO Stan Krpan

“Solar Homes has been overwhelmingly popular with Victorians – that’s why it’s important we regularly seek industry and consumer feedback to make the program even better.”

“The Industry and Consumer Reference Group will ensure we stay on track to delivering cleaner, cheaper energy to Victorian households and adapt to changes in this fast-paced sector.”

Quotes attributable to Chair of Solar Victoria’s ICRG Ivor Frischknecht 

“I’m very pleased to be taking part in the process of further developing the Solar Homes program and ensuring industry and consumer interests are not just protected, but that potential opportunities we identify are considered.”

“Australia’s renewables sector is growing and changing quickly, and it’s important that all voices are heard when policy and programs are being developed, so we get the best outcomes.”