SPV is a solution to the industry and governments shared problem of unapproved solar panels in the Australian market. It is made up of two parts - an app for installers to use on a mobile device and a database of verified serial numbers for solar panels, received directly from manufacturers. Installers use the app to scan solar panel serial numbers, which are then checked against a database to ensure they are an approved brand.

The initiative allows for all participants in the SRES supply chain including installers, retailers, manufacturers and agents to self-regulate and help protect themselves from unscrupulous parties seeking to undermine the industries integrity.

Validating solar panels before they are installed is important, as it:

• Lets consumers know they are getting genuine brands that meet Australian standards and comes with the stated warranty
• Lets installers know they are installing the right panels
• Lowers the risk of fraud to agents
• Protects retailers from financial penalty and reputational damage, and
• Helps the Australian Government and the solar industry to uphold the integrity of the scheme and industry.