Homeowners in Victoria (VIC) and Queensland (QLD) are turning to energy-efficient solutions like solar panels, hot water heat pumps, and efficient air conditioning systems.
The good news? Both states offer government rebates and incentives that can make these upgrades much more affordable.
The bad news? Energy efficiency scams in Victoria and Queensland are becoming more common, with some companies pretending to be accredited providers, offering unrealistic savings, or pressuring households into rushed decisions. Knowing how to spot a scam and confirm if a company is legitimate is crucial.
Here are five ways to recognise if an energy efficiency company is trustworthy in VIC or QLD.
1. Check if they are accredited and listed on official programs
The very first step is to confirm whether the company is government-approved.
- In Victoria, all legitimate providers offering rebates must be registered under the Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) program. You can search the list of accredited providers on the official VEU website.
- In Queensland, if the company is offering solar rebates, batteries, or efficient appliances, check that they are registered with the Queensland Government energy program or accredited by the Clean Energy Council (CEC).
👉 Tip: Always ask for the provider’s ABN (Australian Business Number) and accreditation details. If they refuse to share these or the information doesn’t match government records, it’s a red flag.
2. Look out for red flags in their sales approach
Scammers often use aggressive tactics to trick people into signing contracts or paying deposits. Some warning signs include:
- High-pressure sales: “Sign today or you’ll miss out on the rebate.”
- Unrealistic offers: Promising systems that are completely free without mentioning government guidelines.
- Door-to-door or cold calls: While not always a scam, unsolicited offers should be treated with caution.
- Lack of documentation: No written contract, no terms and conditions, or vague pricing.
👉A trustworthy energy efficiency company will take the time to explain the process, give you written quotes, and encourage you to check information for yourself.
3. Verify their online presence and customer reviews
A legitimate company will leave a digital footprint. Before making any decisions, research them online:
- Website: Do they have a professional website with their ABN, address, and contact details?
- Reviews: Check Google Reviews, website reviews, and Social Media for feedback from real customers.
- Social Media: Active and transparent companies often share updates, case studies, and customer testimonials on their channels.
👉 Tip: Be cautious if you can’t find any online presence or if reviews look suspiciously fake (all 5 stars with generic comments).
4. Ask the right questions before signing anything
A trustworthy company will be happy to answer your questions and provide clear, written information.
Here are some questions to ask:
- Are you accredited with the Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) or the Clean Energy Council (CEC)?
- What rebate am I eligible for, and where can I independently verify this information?
- Can you provide a written contract with itemised costs and savings projections?
- What warranty do you offer on the products and the installation?
- Can I see examples of previous work or speak to past clients?
👉 If the company hesitates or avoids answering these questions, consider it a warning sign.
5. Understand how legitimate companies operate
Finally, knowing what a legitimate energy efficiency company looks like will help you spot scams more easily. Trusted providers typically:
- Explain rebates clearly, often guiding you directly to official government websites.
- Offer transparent pricing without hidden fees.
- Provide consultations before asking for signatures or payments.
- Back their products with solid warranties and after-sales support.
- Respect your decision-making process, without pressuring you into rushed agreements.
👉 If the company you’re speaking with ticks all these boxes, you can feel more confident about moving forward.
What to do if you suspect a scam
If you believe you’ve been contacted by a fraudulent company, take action quickly:
- Report the incident to Consumer Affairs Victoria (for VIC residents) or the Office of Fair Trading in Queensland.
- Submit the details to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) via Scamwatch.
- Warn family, friends, and local community groups so they don’t fall victim to the same tactics.
Government rebates in Victoria and Queensland make it easier for households to switch to energy-efficient solutions and save on power bills. But with valuable incentives comes the risk of scams. By checking accreditations, recognising red flags, asking the right questions, and verifying a company’s reputation, you can protect yourself and your home.
✅ If you’re considering upgrading your hot water system, installing solar panels, or improving your home’s efficiency, make sure you choose a provider you can trust.
