Clean Energy Council WA Manager Dermot Costello said a draft proposal released by the WA Department of Finance’s Public Utilities Office would remove restrictions from solar power purchase agreements (PPAs), a fairly new option that can help households and businesses make the most of the benefits of solar power.

“Consumers can currently choose between buying their solar panels outright, leasing a system from a solar company, or a solar PPA. The best option really depends on people’s different individual circumstances,” Mr Costello said.

“Under a solar PPA, a solar company typically installs the solar panels on your roof and charges you a reduced rate for your electricity.

“This draft government proposal announced yesterday would remove the red tape associated with solar PPAs and make the process easier for both solar businesses and consumers. This is something the Clean Energy Council has argued strongly for, and we are very glad the government has listened."

Mr Costello said if the proposal was finalised, it would allow consumers to make a free and informed choice about the solar option that is right for them.

“Under the recommendations of the decision, customers would be provided with a full product disclosure statement including information about the expected electricity supplied, the cost, and any additional fees and charges,” he said.

The Clean Energy Council has developed consumer guides for installing solar power for both homes and businesses, which are available for free from the Clean Energy Council website.

The Clean Energy Council Solar PV Retailer Code of Conduct provides a list of approved solar retailers that helps people choose a solar company that is committed to going above and beyond for their customers.