Stronger safety and cyber security protections under Solar Homes

Solar Victoria has released its 2026–27 Notice to Market, introducing two new requirements that will strengthen safety standards and cyber security protections for Victorian households installing solar (PV) and energy-efficient hot water systems.

The updated Notice to Market introduces strengthened supervision requirements to improve worker safety, as well as new cyber security standards to better protect consumers using smart energy devices in their homes.

To improve onsite safety, apprentice electricians will be required to be actively supervised in line with Energy Safe Victoria’s Requirements for Effective Supervision of Apprentice Electricians.

This change supports safer worksites while helping new entrants build skills through structured, hands-on learning — supporting long-term workforce capability across the sector.

The Notice to Market also aligns Solar Homes eligible products with new national cyber security rules that commenced on 4 March 2026.

These rules improve protections for connected consumer devices by removing default passwords, strengthening the reporting of security issues, and requiring clearer information about security updates.

These new requirements reflect recently introduced standards and regulations for industry.

Since launching in 2018, Solar Victoria has helped Victorian households cut more than $1.1 billion from the upfront cost of installing solar panels, hot water systems and batteries — reducing energy bills, supporting electrification and lowering emissions.

The 2026–27 edition of the Notice to Market also clarifies several existing standards and requirements to provide greater certainty for industry and consumers.

To download the Notice to Market 2026–27, visit solar.vic.gov.au/notice-to-market.

The current Notice to Market remains in effect until 30 June 2026.