Solar Victoria has announced that a new process for suppliers to join the Home Heating and Cooling Upgrades Program is now open. The company is welcoming new applications to join the Approved Supplier Panel via VendorPanel, the eProcurement Platform. To register your interest, click here.

Suppliers are encouraged to ensure that they have all the correct documentation prepared when they apply to ensure they do not experience unnecessary delays.

Approved suppliers will continue to be required to provide an end-to-end service and ensure appropriate licensing of installers, consumer protections and work quality in the upgrade of gas, electric and wood heaters with energy-efficient reverse-cycle air conditioners.

Thousands of rebates have been allocated with thousands still available; however taking part in the HHCU Program does not guarantee an increase in business, so Solar Victoria encourages suppliers to take this into consideration before beginning their application

Applicants will only be eligible to become an approved supplier if they:

• have been operating in the heating and cooling industry for at least two years
• do not have any prior prosecutions registered with Energy Safe Victoria or the Victorian Building Authority (or an equivalent authority in another Australian jurisdiction) in the past one year
• do not have any prior prosecutions registered with WorkSafe Victoria (or an equivalent authority in another Australian jurisdiction) in the past three years
• have in place occupational health and safety management processes that meet applicable legislative requirements
• have in place an appropriate internal customer complaint handling procedure that is fair, efficient and transparent
• agree to a credit check, arranged by Solar Victoria, to confirm sound financial standing
• are insured to the required value as set out by Solar Victoria in the eProcurement application form.

Applicants are required to complete all sections of the application form, providing supporting documentation as required by Solar Victoria, to ensure they meet the above criteria.